Crispy Parmesan Zucchini Rounds
Crispy Parmesan Zucchini Rounds are a crunchy, cheesy snack featuring tender zucchini slices coated in a golden Parmesan and breadcrumb crust. Perfect as a healthy appetizer, side dish, or light bite, this fuss-free recipe delivers a satisfying texture and fresh garden flavors in under 30 minutes.
- Author: Mary
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15–20 minutes
- Total Time: 25–30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Vegetables
- 2 medium-sized fresh zucchinis, sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
Coating
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Binder
Finishing
- Prepare the zucchini: Wash the zucchinis thoroughly and slice them into 1/4-inch thick rounds. Pat each round dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which is key to achieving a crispy texture.
- Set up your dredging station: In one bowl, whisk the egg until smooth. On another plate, combine the panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. This ensures even and full coating coverage.
- Coat each zucchini round: Dip each zucchini slice first into the egg wash, allowing any excess to drip off. Then press firmly into the breadcrumb mixture, making sure each slice is evenly coated for maximum crunch.
- Arrange and bake: Place the coated zucchini rounds on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Lightly spray the tops with olive oil spray to lock in crispiness. Bake in a preheated oven at 425°F (220°C) for 15–20 minutes, flipping the rounds halfway through baking, until golden brown and crispy.
- Serve warm: Remove the zucchini rounds from the oven and serve immediately to enjoy the best crunchy texture. Pair with your favorite dips or enjoy them on their own.
Notes
- Dry the zucchini rounds thoroughly to avoid sogginess.
- Use panko breadcrumbs for the crispiest coating.
- Do not overcrowd the baking sheet; leave space between rounds to ensure even baking.
- Flip the zucchini rounds halfway through baking for even browning on both sides.
- Serve immediately for best texture as they are most crunchy when fresh.
- For gluten-free option, replace breadcrumbs with almond flour or gluten-free panko crumbs.
- Air frying at 400°F (200°C) for 10–12 minutes is an excellent alternative for extra crispiness and less oil.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (about 6-8 rounds)
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
Keywords: zucchini snack, crispy zucchini, parmesan zucchini rounds, healthy appetizer, gluten-free snack, baked zucchini, cheesy zucchini bites