Name: Garlic Lemon and Parmesan Oven Roasted Zucchini Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 4 medium zucchini, sliced into ½-inch thick rounds; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; Zest of 1 lemon; 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice; ½ teaspoon salt; ¼ teaspoon black pepper; ⅓ cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)

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If you’re searching for a dish that’s equal parts vibrant, healthy, and downright irresistible, look no further than this Garlic Lemon and Parmesan Oven Roasted Zucchini Recipe. Every bite is a celebration of fresh summer flavors: tender zucchini, zesty lemon, savory Parmesan, and a whisper of garlic, all brought together with just a touch of olive oil. This recipe is a weeknight hero—quick to make, packed with personality, and guaranteed to turn even the most casual meal into something special.

Garlic Lemon and Parmesan Oven Roasted Zucchini Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of the Garlic Lemon and Parmesan Oven Roasted Zucchini Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient here pulls its weight, contributing bright flavors, luscious texture, or a pop of color that makes this dish shine. You probably have most of these on hand already!

Zucchini: Choose firm, medium-sized zucchini for the perfect tender-yet-crisp texture and mild, sweet flavor.
Olive oil: A drizzle of good olive oil helps the zucchini roast beautifully and adds a subtle richness.
Garlic: Freshly minced garlic infuses the zucchini with a gently pungent aroma and loads of savory depth.
Lemon zest: The zest brings a burst of citrusy brightness that wakes up every bite.
Lemon juice: Just a splash adds tang and balances the richness of the cheese and oil.
Salt: A must for drawing out the zucchini’s natural flavor—don’t skip it!
Black pepper: Adds a gentle warmth and rounds out the other seasonings.
Parmesan cheese: The star topping—salty, nutty, and deliciously golden when roasted.
Fresh parsley (optional): A sprinkle at the end gives color and a fresh, herbal finish.

How to Make Garlic Lemon and Parmesan Oven Roasted Zucchini Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper—this will prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze. A hot oven is key to getting those irresistible golden edges on your zucchini.

Step 2: Toss the Zucchini

In a large bowl, combine your sliced zucchini with olive oil, minced garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Toss everything together until each round is glistening and evenly coated. The lemon and garlic sneak into every crevice, ensuring maximum flavor in every bite.

Step 3: Arrange and Cheese It Up

Spread the zucchini slices out in a single layer on your prepared baking sheet. This helps them roast evenly and keeps them from steaming. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese generously and evenly over the top—don’t be shy, this is where the magic happens!

Step 4: Roast to Perfection

Slide the tray into the oven and roast for 18 to 20 minutes. You’re looking for tender zucchini with edges that are just turning golden brown. If you crave a little extra crispiness (who doesn’t?), pop the tray under the broiler for an extra 2 to 3 minutes. Watch closely so the cheese turns perfectly golden, not burnt.

Step 5: Finish and Serve

Once your zucchini rounds are roasted and fragrant, pull them from the oven. Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley if you like, then serve them up warm. The result: a Garlic Lemon and Parmesan Oven Roasted Zucchini Recipe that’s bursting with flavor and ready to wow your taste buds.

How to Serve Garlic Lemon and Parmesan Oven Roasted Zucchini Recipe

Garnishes

For a fresh finish, scatter extra chopped parsley or a little more lemon zest over the zucchini right before serving. If you’re feeling adventurous, a pinch of red pepper flakes adds a gentle heat that perfectly complements the savory cheese and bright lemon.

Side Dishes

This Garlic Lemon and Parmesan Oven Roasted Zucchini Recipe pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, flaky fish, or a simple pasta tossed with olive oil and herbs. It’s also fantastic alongside a hearty grain salad or as a colorful addition to a Mediterranean mezze spread.

Creative Ways to Present

Try stacking the zucchini rounds in a rustic pile or fanning them out on a platter for a little visual flair. For parties, serve them on skewers or as a topper for toasted baguette slices. They’re even delicious tucked into wraps or layered in a veggie sandwich!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers (which is rare!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The zucchini will soften slightly, but the flavors just continue to meld and deepen.

Freezing

While you can freeze the Garlic Lemon and Parmesan Oven Roasted Zucchini Recipe, keep in mind the texture of the zucchini may become quite soft once thawed. If you do freeze, layer the zucchini rounds between sheets of parchment and pack in a freezer-safe container for up to one month.

Reheating

To reheat, spread the zucchini on a baking sheet and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5 to 7 minutes. This helps restore some of the original crispness. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the zucchini mushy.

FAQs

Can I use yellow squash instead of zucchini?

Absolutely! Yellow squash works beautifully in this Garlic Lemon and Parmesan Oven Roasted Zucchini Recipe. You’ll get a slightly sweeter flavor and a gorgeous pop of color.

How do I make this recipe dairy-free?

Swap out the Parmesan for your favorite dairy-free cheese alternative or use nutritional yeast for a nutty, cheesy flavor without the dairy.

What’s the best way to slice the zucchini?

Cut the zucchini into even ½-inch thick rounds. This ensures they cook evenly and get that perfect roasted texture. A sharp knife or mandoline makes the job quick and easy.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

You can slice the zucchini and prep the garlic and lemon up to a day in advance. For best results, toss and roast just before serving so the zucchini stays crisp and fresh.

Is this Garlic Lemon and Parmesan Oven Roasted Zucchini Recipe gluten-free?

Yes! All the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, making this a fantastic side for guests with dietary restrictions.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking to brighten up your dinner table or add a new favorite to your rotation, you simply have to try this Garlic Lemon and Parmesan Oven Roasted Zucchini Recipe. It’s a little bit zesty, a little bit cheesy, and a whole lot delicious. Grab a few zucchini and give it a go—you might just find yourself making it on repeat!

Garlic Lemon and Parmesan Oven Roasted Zucchini Recipe

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4.6 from 8 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

This Garlic Lemon and Parmesan Oven Roasted Zucchini recipe offers a deliciously simple side dish featuring tender zucchini rounds tossed with olive oil, garlic, lemon, and Parmesan cheese. Perfectly roasted to golden perfection, it makes a healthy, flavorful addition to any Mediterranean-inspired meal or light appetizer.

Ingredients

Scale

Zucchini and Seasoning

4 medium zucchini, sliced into ½-inch thick rounds
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
Zest of 1 lemon
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper

Toppings and Garnish

⅓ cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)

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Instructions

Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and for easier cleanup.
Toss Zucchini: In a large bowl, combine the zucchini slices with olive oil, minced garlic, lemon zest, fresh lemon juice, salt, and black pepper. Toss thoroughly until every slice is evenly coated with the flavorful mixture.
Arrange and Add Cheese: Spread the zucchini slices in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top to add a savory, crispy crust during roasting.
Roast: Place the baking sheet in the oven and roast the zucchini for 18 to 20 minutes, or until the slices are tender and the edges turn a golden brown color.
Optional Broil: For extra crispiness, switch to the broil setting and broil the zucchini for an additional 2 to 3 minutes, watching closely to avoid burning.
Garnish and Serve: Remove the zucchini from the oven and sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley if desired. Serve warm as a flavorful side dish or light appetizer.