Parmesan Crusted Zucchini Wedges

Parmesan Crusted Zucchini Wedges are a delicious and healthy side dish that everyone will love. With their crispy exterior and tender interior, these wedges are perfect for any occasion—from casual family dinners to elegant gatherings. The combination of freshly grated Parmesan cheese and seasoned panko breadcVanilla Extract (Alcohol-Free)bs creates a delightful crunch, making them an irresistible treat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This recipe requires minimal prep time and is straightforward, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Versatile Side Dish: These zucchini wedges pair well with a variety of main dishes, from grilled chicken to roasted vegetables.
• Healthier Alternative: Baked rather than fried, these wedges offer a guilt-free way to enjoy a flavorful snack or side.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Great for parties or gatherings, they appeal to both children and adults alike.
• Flavorful & Satisfying: The blend of herbs and spices with Parmesan cheese creates a rich flavor profile that makes these wedges unforgettable.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, gather your essential tools. Having the right equipment will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Cooling rack
• Mixing bowls
• Pastry brush
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: Provides an even surface for baking, ensuring all zucchini wedges cook uniformly.
• Cooling rack: Allows air circulation around the zucchini, helping to achieve maximum crispiness.

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Ingredients

To create your own tasty Parmesan Crusted Zucchini Wedges, gather the following ingredients:

For the Zucchini Wedges

• 8 small to medium zucchini
• 1 cup panko breadcVanilla Extract (Alcohol-Free)bs
• 1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 2 teaspoons dry parsley
• 1 teaspoon dry oregano
• 1 teaspoon dry basil
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder

For the Coating Mixture

• ¼ cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• Cooking/pan spray

How to Make Parmesan Crusted Zucchini Wedges

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F. Position the rack in the top third of the oven to help with browning.

Step 2: Prepare Your Baking Sheet

Line a sheet tray with foil and fit it with a cooling rack of the same size. Spray the rack lightly with kitchen pan spray.

Step 3: Cut the Zucchini

Trim the ends off each zucchini. Cut each zucchini in half lengthwise, then cut each half into quarters lengthwise to yield 32 long zucchini wedges.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, mix together the panko breadcVanilla Extract (Alcohol-Free)bs, freshly grated Parmesan cheese, kosher salt, black pepper, dry parsley, dry oregano, dry basil, and garlic powder until evenly combined.

Step 5: Make Your Coating Mixture

In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise with extra virgin olive oil until well blended.

Step 6: Coat the Zucchini Wedges

With all zucchini quarters cut side up on your cutting board, use a pastry brush to coat each cut top with the mayonnaise mixture.

Step 7: Bread Each Piece

Lift each coated zucchini quarter one at a time over the bowl containing your breading mixture. Use your other hand to sprinkle breading over each piece until both cut sides are covered.

Step 8: Arrange on Baking Sheet

As you complete each piece, place them on the prepared baking sheet cut side up.

Step 9: Bake in Oven

Once all zucchini are breaded on the sheet tray, lightly spray the tops with cooking spray. Place in preheated oven.

Step 10: Bake Time

Bake for 15 minutes. After this time has passed, rotate your pan and bake for an additional 15 minutes.

Step 11: Broil if Necessary

If they’re not browned enough after baking, broil for one or two minutes until they reach your desired crispiness.

Step 12: Serve Immediately

Remove from oven and serve hot as an irresistible side dish!

How to Serve Parmesan Crusted Zucchini Wedges

Parmesan Crusted Zucchini Wedges are a delicious and versatile side dish that can complement many meals. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

As an Appetizer

• Serve with a tangy marinara sauce for dipping. The acidity of the sauce pairs well with the savory flavors of the zucchini.
• Accompany with a creamy ranch dressing. This adds a cool contrast to the warm, crispy wedges.

With a Salad

• Pair with a fresh garden salad. The crispness of the salad balances the richness of the Parmesan crust.
• Combine with a Caesar salad for an extra layer of flavor. The garlic and anchovy notes in Caesar dressing enhance the taste profile.

Alongside Grilled Meats

• Serve next to grilled chicken or turkey. The crunchiness of the wedges complements juicy grilled meats perfectly.
• Add alongside grilled lamb for a hearty meal. The herb flavors in both dishes will harmonize beautifully.

As a Snack

• Enjoy as a healthy snack on their own. They are satisfying and full of flavor without being overly heavy.
• Pair with hummus for a nutritious dip option. The creaminess of hummus contrasts nicely with the crispy texture.

How to Perfect Parmesan Crusted Zucchini Wedges

To achieve the best results when making Parmesan Crusted Zucchini Wedges, keep these tips in mind.

• Choose Fresh Zucchini: Select firm, shiny zucchini for optimal flavor and texture. Fresh zucchini will hold up better during cooking.
• Use Quality Parmesan: Opt for freshly grated Parmesan cheese rather than pre-packaged varieties. It melts better and offers superior flavor.
• Avoid Overcrowding: When baking, ensure there’s enough space between each wedge on the baking tray. This allows for even browning and crisping.
• Monitor Cooking Time: Keep an eye on your zucchini as they bake; ovens vary in temperature, so adjust cooking time if necessary for perfect doneness.

Best Side Dishes for Parmesan Crusted Zucchini Wedges

Parmesan Crusted Zucchini Wedges can be paired with various side dishes to create a balanced meal. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic make for a comforting side that complements the crunchiness of the wedges.
2. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad tossed with herbs and lemon adds freshness to your plate while keeping it healthy.
3. Roasted Bell Peppers: Sweet roasted bell peppers provide vibrant color and flavor, enhancing your meal’s appeal.
4. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli offers a nutritious contrast to the rich flavors of the zucchini wedges.
5. Couscous Pilaf: A fluffy couscous pilaf mixed with vegetables creates a delightful addition that rounds out your dish nicely.
6. Coleslaw: Crunchy coleslaw adds texture and tang, balancing out the savory taste of your zucchini wedges.
7. Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy baked sweet potato fries provide a sweet counterpoint to the savory wedges, making them great companions.
8. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Juicy grilled corn enhances any summer meal and brings sweetness that pairs well with cheesy dishes like these zucchini wedges.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Parmesan Crusted Zucchini Wedges, it’s easy to overlook some details that can impact the final dish. Here are common mistakes to avoid for a perfect outcome.

• Using stale breadcrumbs: Fresh panko breadcrumbs provide a better crunch and flavor. Always check the expiration date on your breadcrumbs before using.
• Not preheating the oven: Failing to preheat can lead to uneven cooking. Make sure your oven reaches 375°F before placing the zucchini inside for optimal browning.
• Skipping the mayo mixture: The mayonnaise helps the breading stick and adds moisture. Don’t skip this step; brush it generously on both sides of the zucchini wedges.
• Overcrowding the baking tray: Placing too many zucchini wedges close together can cause steaming instead of baking. Ensure they are spaced out for even cooking.
• Ignoring broiling at the end: If your zucchini wedges don’t brown sufficiently, broil them for a minute or two. This step enhances the texture and flavor significantly.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Consume within 3-4 days for best quality.

Freezing Parmesan Crusted Zucchini Wedges

• Place in a freezer-safe container or bag, separating layers with parchment paper.
• These can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Parmesan Crusted Zucchini Wedges

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy again.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, but note this may result in a softer texture.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over medium heat, adding a little olive oil if desired, and cook for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Parmesan Crusted Zucchini Wedges that might help you in preparing this delicious dish.

How do I make gluten-free Parmesan Crusted Zucchini Wedges?

You can substitute regular panko with gluten-free panko breadcrumbs. The rest of the recipe remains unchanged.

Can I use other cheeses instead of Parmesan?

Yes! You can try using mozzarella or cheddar for different flavors, but keep in mind that they may melt differently than Parmesan.

Are Parmesan Crusted Zucchini Wedges healthy?

They are a healthier option compared to traditional fried snacks, offering vitamins and fiber from zucchini while keeping calories relatively low when baked.

What dishes pair well with Parmesan Crusted Zucchini Wedges?

These wedges make an excellent side dish alongside grilled chicken, steak, or as part of a veggie platter with dips.

Can I air-fry Parmesan Crusted Zucchini Wedges?

Absolutely! Air-frying is a great alternative; simply adjust cooking time according to your air fryer’s instructions for best results.

Final Thoughts

Parmesan Crusted Zucchini Wedges are not only tasty but also versatile. They serve as a great side dish or snack option. Feel free to customize by adding different herbs or spices to suit your taste preferences. Enjoy making this delightful recipe!