Roasted Zucchini with Parmesan, Lemon, and Fresh Herbs Recipe
This easy Roasted Zucchini recipe features tender, flavorful zucchini spears coated with Parmesan and Italian seasoning, then oven roasted to perfection and finished with fresh lemon juice and herbs. It’s a simple and delicious side dish perfect for any meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Total Time: 28 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
Zucchini
- 4 small zucchini, ends trimmed and quartered lengthwise
Seasoning & Toppings
- 1/3 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 1/2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh herbs (such as parsley, basil, dill, or a mix) (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Rack: Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F. Coat a cooling rack with nonstick spray and place it on a rimmed baking sheet to catch drips and ensure even roasting.
- Mix Seasoning: In a small bowl, combine the grated Parmesan, Italian seasoning, kosher salt, and black pepper, mixing until well blended for a flavorful coating.
- Coat Zucchini: Place the quartered zucchini in a large bowl, drizzle with olive oil, then sprinkle the Parmesan seasoning mixture over them. Toss gently to coat each piece evenly.
- Arrange for Roasting: Lay the coated zucchini spears on the prepared cooling rack in a single layer, making sure not to overlap to allow even heat circulation during roasting.
- Roast the Zucchini: Bake in the 400 degrees F oven for 12 to 15 minutes until the zucchini is tender when pierced with a fork.
- Broil to Crisp: Switch the oven to broil and cook the zucchini for an additional 2 to 3 minutes until the Parmesan topping becomes lightly crisp and golden. Watch closely to avoid burning.
- Finish and Serve: Remove the zucchini from the oven and immediately squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top. Sprinkle with fresh chopped herbs if using. Serve warm or at room temperature for best flavor.
Notes
- Using a cooling rack on a baking sheet allows air to circulate around the zucchini for even roasting and crispiness.
- Watch the broccoli closely during broiling to prevent the Parmesan cheese from burning.
- Feel free to mix fresh herbs according to preference or availability.
- This dish is a great low-carb and gluten-free side option.
- For a vegan version, substitute nutritional yeast for Parmesan and omit lemon juice if desired.
