🥒🧀 Crispy Parmesan Zucchini Rounds

Crispy on the outside, tender inside, and perfectly seasoned with Parmesan and spices. These make the BEST healthy snack, appetizer, or veggie side dish!

🧾 Ingredients (Makes 20–24 rounds)

• 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into ¼-inch rounds

• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• ½ tsp garlic powder

• ½ tsp Italian seasoning (optional)

• ½ tsp paprika (optional)

• Salt & pepper, to taste

Optional toppings:

• Fresh parsley

• Lemon zest

• Red pepper flakes

🍳 Instructions

1. Prep the zucchini

• Wash and slice zucchini into ¼-inch thick rounds.

• Pat slices dry with paper towels (helps crispiness).

2. Coat with oil

• Place slices in a bowl.

• Drizzle with olive oil, toss to coat evenly.

3. Add the Parmesan coating

In a separate bowl mix:

• Parmesan

• Garlic powder

• Italian seasoning

• Paprika

• Salt & pepper

Press each oily zucchini slice into the Parmesan mixture so it sticks on one side.

4. Bake

• Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).

• Line a baking sheet with parchment.

• Place zucchini rounds Parmesan-side up.

• Bake 18–22 minutes, or until golden and crispy.

5. Serve

• Garnish with parsley or chili flakes.

• Serve warm as a snack, appetizer, or side dish.

🌟 Air Fryer Option

• Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C).

• Air fry for 8–10 minutes, shaking halfway.

• Make sure rounds don’t overlap.

🧀 Dip Ideas

• Ranch

• Marinara

• Garlic yogurt dip

• Lemon aioli

• Pesto

❓ Q&A / Tips

Q1. How do I make them extra crispy?

• Slice zucchini thin (¼-inch).

• Pat dry very well.

• Use freshly grated Parmesan, not the powdered kind.

• Cook on high heat (425°F).

• Don’t overcrowd the tray.

Q2. Can I make this recipe low-carb or keto?

It already is!
Zucchini + Parmesan = low-carb, gluten-free, keto-friendly.

Q3. Can I use yellow squash instead?

Yes! It cooks the same way and tastes just as good.

Q4. Can I store and reheat them?

Best eaten fresh, but leftovers keep 1–2 days in the fridge.
Reheat in:

• Air fryer: 3–4 minutes

• Oven: 5–7 minutes at 400°F

Microwave will make them soft.

Q5. Can I add breadcrumbs?

Yes — for extra crunch mix:

• ⅓ cup panko

• ⅓ cup Parmesan

Coat one side of each slice and bake.

Q6. How do I keep the cheese from burning?

• Stick to ¼-inch slices.

• Place on the middle rack of the oven.

• Check during the last 3 minutes of baking.

Q7. Can I mix the Parmesan and oil instead of pressing each slice?

It’s possible, but pressing each slice into the cheese gives the best crispy crust.