Roasted zucchini is a simple yet flavorful dish that brings out the vegetable’s natural sweetness while adding a satisfying crispy texture. The garlic and herbs complement the zucchini perfectly, making this a must-try for anyone looking for a healthy, tasty snack or side dish.
Whether you’re looking to meal prep for the week or just need a quick side for dinner, this roasted zucchini recipe delivers. It’s full of flavor, low in calories, and a great way to enjoy vegetables without the hassle. Garnish with fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness, and serve alongside your favorite main course for a well-rounded meal.
Full Recipe:
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4 medium zucchinis, sliced into rounds
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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1 teaspoon garlic powder
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1 teaspoon onion powder
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1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
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1/2 teaspoon dried basil
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Salt and pepper to taste
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Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Directions:
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Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
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Slice the zucchinis into 1/4-inch thick rounds.
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In a large bowl, toss the zucchini slices with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
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Arrange the zucchini slices in a single layer on a baking sheet.
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Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the zucchinis are golden and crispy on the edges.
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Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh parsley, if desired. Serve immediately.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes
Kcal: 80 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
What Makes Roasted Zucchini So Delicious?
Zucchini, while mild in flavor on its own, becomes a powerhouse of taste when roasted with a few simple ingredients. The high heat from the oven helps caramelize the natural sugars in the zucchini, transforming it into a rich and savory treat. Adding olive oil to the zucchini helps it crisp up in the oven while also carrying the flavors of the seasoning into every bite. The combination of garlic, Italian seasoning, and a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan brings a burst of savory goodness that enhances the flavor profile of the zucchini. This balance of textures, from crispy edges to tender centers, makes roasted zucchini an irresistible side dish or snack.
Choosing the Right Zucchini for Roasting
For the best roasted zucchini, it’s important to select zucchinis that are firm and free of blemishes. Ideally, choose zucchini that are medium-sized—too large a zucchini can be watery, while very small ones may not have the texture you want. It’s recommended to cut the zucchini into slices that are about ¾ inch thick. This thickness helps prevent the zucchini from becoming too soft or mushy during roasting. You can also cut them into half-moons if you prefer smaller pieces.
Zucchini is available year-round in most grocery stores, but it shines during the summer months when it’s at its freshest and most abundant. Look for zucchini that feels heavy for its size. It should also have smooth, shiny skin without any wrinkles or soft spots, indicating that it’s still fresh.
How to Avoid Soggy Zucchini
A common issue when roasting zucchini is its tendency to become soggy. This is due to the high water content that zucchini naturally contains. However, there are a few tips and tricks you can follow to ensure you end up with perfectly roasted zucchini every time:
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High Heat is Key: Roasting zucchini at a high temperature, such as 425°F (220°C), allows the moisture to evaporate quickly, helping the zucchini to crisp up rather than becoming mushy. A hotter oven ensures the zucchini gets those lovely golden-brown edges without overcooking the inside.
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Thicker Slices: When cutting your zucchini, opt for slightly thicker slices—about ¾ to 1 inch thick. Thinner slices tend to lose their structure and become too soft while cooking. Thicker pieces hold up better and ensure that the zucchini maintains a bite.
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Proper Spacing: It’s crucial not to crowd the zucchini slices on the baking sheet. Overcrowding causes the zucchini to steam rather than roast, leading to a soggy texture. If you’re making a larger batch, use two baking sheets to ensure the pieces are spread out evenly and cook properly.
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Don’t Overcook: Zucchini cooks relatively quickly, usually within 15 to 20 minutes. Keep an eye on it, and remove it from the oven as soon as it turns golden brown. If left in the oven for too long, the zucchini will become too soft and lose that perfect roasted texture.
Health Benefits of Zucchini
Zucchini is not just delicious; it’s also packed with nutritional benefits. It is low in calories, making it an excellent option for those on a calorie-controlled diet. One cup of sliced zucchini contains just 20 calories but offers a good amount of dietary fiber, which aids in digestion. Zucchini is also rich in antioxidants such as vitamin C, which supports a healthy immune system, and manganese, which helps with bone health and metabolism.
Furthermore, zucchini is a great source of potassium, which is essential for regulating blood pressure, and it is also high in water content, keeping you hydrated. All in all, this vegetable is a nutrient-dense food that adds not only flavor but also essential vitamins and minerals to your diet.
How to Store and Reheat Roasted Zucchini
Leftover roasted zucchini can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days. This makes it a great option for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy it throughout the week. To reheat, simply place it in the microwave for a minute or two, or warm it in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for about 5-7 minutes. Reheating in the oven will help maintain its crisp texture, so it’s the preferred method if you’re looking to avoid a soggy result.
It’s also worth noting that roasted zucchini can be frozen, but its texture may change slightly once thawed. If you plan to freeze it, be sure to lay the roasted zucchini pieces on a baking sheet in a single layer first. Freeze them for an hour before transferring them to a freezer bag or container. This helps prevent them from sticking together.
Serving Suggestions for Roasted Zucchini
Roasted zucchini is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a variety of main dishes. It’s a great accompaniment to grilled proteins like chicken, turkey burgers, or salmon. You can also serve it alongside roasted meats or as part of a vegetable platter for a light meal. For a quick and easy lunch, try adding roasted zucchini to a grain bowl with quinoa or brown rice, and top it off with your favorite dressing or protein.
Zucchini also shines in pasta dishes. Tossing roasted zucchini with spaghetti or pasta salad adds a fresh and savory element to the dish. You can even make a light and healthy pizza topping by layering roasted zucchini over pizza dough along with some marinara and mozzarella cheese. For a more substantial meal, add it to a breakfast skillet or serve it in an omelet with eggs and cheese.
Conclusion
Roasted zucchini is an uncomplicated yet delicious way to enjoy one of the most versatile vegetables out there. By following a few simple steps, you can turn this humble vegetable into a tasty, crispy dish that’s packed with flavor and nutrients. Whether you’re looking for a quick side dish or a way to elevate your meals, roasted zucchini is a must-try recipe that will add variety and depth to your culinary repertoire. The best part? It’s easy, healthy, and a great way to enjoy zucchini year-round.
By roasting zucchini at a high temperature and using just a few basic ingredients, you can create a dish that’s as simple as it is flavorful. Its flexibility means you can pair it with a wide range of dishes or enjoy it on its own, making it a go-to choice for busy weeknights or any occasion that calls for a healthy, delicious meal.