🥒 Crispy Parmesan Zucchini Boats
📝 Description
These zucchini boats are golden, crunchy on top, and tender inside. Filled with a savory Parmesan and breadcrumb mixture, they deliver the perfect balance of crispiness and cheesy goodness. They’re a great low-carb alternative to heavier dishes while still feeling indulgent and flavorful.
🥗 Ingredients
- 3 medium zucchinis
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup breadcrumbs (panko for extra crispiness)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- ½ tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper (to taste)
- ¼ tsp chili flakes (optional)
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
👩🍳 Instructions
- Preheat oven
- Set to 200°C (400°F) and line a baking tray.
- Prepare zucchini
- Slice zucchinis in half lengthwise.
- Scoop out a bit of the center to create “boats.”
- Season base
- Brush zucchini with olive oil.
- Sprinkle lightly with salt and pepper.
- Make crispy topping
- In a bowl, mix Parmesan, breadcrumbs, garlic, Italian seasoning, chili flakes, and a drizzle of olive oil.
- Fill zucchini boats
- Spoon the mixture evenly onto each zucchini half, pressing gently so it sticks.
- Bake
- Bake for 20–25 minutes until golden brown and crispy on top.
- Serve
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.
❓ Q&A
Q1: How do I make them extra crispy?
Use panko breadcrumbs and broil for 2–3 minutes at the end.
Q2: Can I make this low-carb?
Yes, replace breadcrumbs with almond flour or crushed nuts.
Q3: Can I add protein?
Absolutely—add shredded chicken, ground beef, or even tuna to the topping.
Q4: Can I cook these in an air fryer?
Yes! Air fry at 180°C for 12–15 minutes until crispy.
Q5: How do I store leftovers?
Store in the fridge for up to 2 days and reheat in oven or air fryer to keep crisp.