🥒 Crispy Parmesan Zucchini Rounds (Mediterranean Style)
✨ Description
These Crispy Parmesan Zucchini Rounds are thinly sliced zucchini coated in olive oil, herbs, and Parmesan, then baked or air-fried until golden and crunchy. They’re light yet satisfying, naturally vegetarian, and packed with Mediterranean flavors like garlic, oregano, and extra-virgin olive oil. Perfect as a snack, appetizer, or healthy side dish—and ready in under 25 minutes.
🛒 Ingredients
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2 medium zucchini, sliced into ¼-inch rounds
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2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
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½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
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¼ cup breadcrumbs or panko (optional, for extra crunch)
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1 tsp dried oregano
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½ tsp garlic powder
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¼ tsp paprika
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Salt & black pepper, to taste
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Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)
🔥 Instructions
1️⃣ Prep the Zucchini
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Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
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Pat zucchini slices dry with paper towels (important for crispiness).
2️⃣ Season
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In a bowl, toss zucchini with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3️⃣ Coat
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In a separate bowl, mix Parmesan, breadcrumbs (if using), oregano, garlic powder, and paprika.
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Press each zucchini round lightly into the cheese mixture.
4️⃣ Bake
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Arrange slices in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
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Bake 18–22 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crispy.
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For extra browning, broil 1–2 minutes at the end.
5️⃣ Serve
Garnish with fresh herbs and serve hot.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
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With tzatziki or garlic yogurt dip
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Alongside grilled chicken or fish
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As a crunchy topping for salads
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With a squeeze of fresh lemon
🧠 Q & A
Q: How do I make them extra crispy?
A:
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Pat zucchini very dry
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Don’t overcrowd the pan
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Use freshly grated Parmesan (not pre-shredded)
Q: Can I air-fry these?
A: Yes!
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Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 10–12 minutes, shaking halfway.
Q: Can I make them gluten-free?
A: Absolutely. Skip breadcrumbs or use almond flour or gluten-free crumbs.
Q: Do they get soggy after cooling?
A: They’re best eaten fresh. If reheating, use an oven or air fryer—never the microwave.
Q: What’s the Mediterranean twist here?
A: Olive oil, herbs, Parmesan, fresh vegetables, and light cooking methods—simple, balanced, and flavorful.
Q: Can I add other flavors?
A:
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Chili flakes for heat
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Lemon zest for brightness
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Crushed olives for a savory kick
