Are you looking for a healthy and flavorful side dish that's surprisingly easy to make? Look no further! This baked breaded zucchini recipe is a fantastic alternative to fried zucchini, offering all the crispy goodness without the excess oil. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, a summer barbecue, or even a light lunch. This simple recipe is a testament to how delicious and satisfying healthy meals can be, proving that homemade cooking doesn't have to be complicated.
Ingredients:
- 2 medium zucchini, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
- 1 cup panko bread crumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
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Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. This simple step ensures your zucchini crisps up beautifully and prevents sticking.
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Bread the Zucchini: In a shallow dish, combine the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. In a separate shallow dish, whisk the eggs. In a third shallow dish, combine the panko bread crumbs and Parmesan cheese.
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Coat the Zucchini: Dip each zucchini slice into the flour mixture, ensuring it's fully coated. Then, dip it into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess to drip off. Finally, coat the zucchini slice thoroughly in the panko mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
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Arrange & Bake: Arrange the breaded zucchini slices in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and tender. Flipping halfway through ensures even cooking and browning.
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Serve & Enjoy: Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving. These baked breaded zucchini slices are delicious as a side dish with your favorite protein and vegetables.
Tips for the Best Baked Breaded Zucchini:
- Don't overcrowd the baking sheet: Ensure the zucchini slices are in a single layer to allow for even browning and crisping. If necessary, bake in batches.
- Adjust seasonings to your taste: Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to create your own unique flavor combinations. Italian seasoning, paprika, or even a pinch of red pepper flakes would be delicious additions.
- For extra crispy zucchini: Let the breaded zucchini sit for about 15 minutes after breading before baking. This allows the breading to set, resulting in a crispier texture.
Variations:
- Spicy Zucchini: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture for a spicy kick.
- Herby Zucchini: Incorporate fresh herbs like parsley, dill, or chives into the breadcrumb mixture for an extra burst of flavor.
- Cheesy Zucchini: Increase the amount of Parmesan cheese or add other shredded cheeses like mozzarella or Asiago.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 100-120 calories
- Fat: 5-7 grams
- Protein: 3-4 grams
- Carbohydrates: 10-12 grams
This baked breaded zucchini recipe is a quick, easy, and healthy addition to your meal repertoire. It’s a perfect example of how simple delicious dishes can be, making it ideal for busy weeknights or those looking for a lighter, healthier alternative to fried foods. Enjoy!