Crispy Parmesan Zucchini Rounds

Mediterranean-Style | Light, Crunchy & Irresistible

These Crispy Parmesan Zucchini Rounds are a simple yet flavorful Mediterranean-inspired dish featuring fresh zucchini, extra virgin olive oil, herbs, and golden baked Parmesan. Popular in home kitchens across Italy and coastal Greece, this recipe keeps things wholesome, baked (not fried), and full of bright, savory flavor.

Perfect as a snack, appetizer, or healthy side dish!

🥒 Ingredients (Serves 4)

• 2 medium zucchini, sliced into ¼-inch rounds

• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

• ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

• ½ teaspoon garlic powder

• ½ teaspoon dried oregano

• ¼ teaspoon dried thyme

• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

• ¼ teaspoon sea salt

• Optional: 2 tablespoons whole wheat breadcrumbs (for extra crunch)

• Fresh parsley for garnish

👩‍🍳 Instructions

1️⃣ Preheat Oven

Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2️⃣ Prep the Zucchini

Pat zucchini slices dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This helps them crisp.

3️⃣ Season

In a bowl, toss zucchini with olive oil, garlic powder, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper.

4️⃣ Coat with Parmesan

Arrange slices in a single layer on the baking sheet.
Sprinkle Parmesan evenly on top (and breadcrumbs if using).

5️⃣ Bake

Bake for 18–22 minutes until golden and crispy on edges.
Optional: Broil for 2–3 minutes for extra browning.

6️⃣ Serve

Garnish with chopped parsley and serve immediately.

🌿 Mediterranean Benefits

• Rich in antioxidants

• Low-carb and gluten-friendly (without breadcrumbs)

• Heart-healthy olive oil

• Simple whole ingredients

• Naturally vegetarian

🍽 Serving Ideas

• Serve with tzatziki

• Pair with grilled chicken or fish

• Add to a mezze platter

• Enjoy with marinara dipping sauce

• Toss into salads for crunch

🔥 Tips for Extra Crispiness

✔ Don’t overcrowd the pan
✔ Use freshly grated Parmesan
✔ Pat zucchini completely dry
✔ Use high oven heat
✔ Flip halfway for even browning

🧊 Storage

• Best enjoyed fresh

• Refrigerate up to 2 days

• Reheat in oven or air fryer to restore crispness

❓ Q & A

Q1: Can I make these in the air fryer?

Yes! Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 8–10 minutes.

Q2: Can I make them keto?

Yes — skip breadcrumbs.

Q3: Why are my zucchini soggy?

Too much moisture or overcrowding the pan.

Q4: Can I use other cheese?

Yes — try Pecorino Romano or Asiago.

Q5: Can I make them dairy-free?

You can substitute Parmesan with nutritional yeast, though texture will differ.