Are you tired of boring vegetable side dishes that make your family run from the dinner table? Prepare to revolutionize your meal with these irresistible Baked Parmesan Zucchini Spears - a crispy, golden-brown sensation that turns humble zucchini into a crave-worthy delicacy. With a perfectly seasoned breadcrumb coating and a generous sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, these spears are so delicious that even the most dedicated veggie-avoiders will be asking for seconds!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 medium zucchinis, cut into spears
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking.
- Wash the zucchinis thoroughly and pat them dry with paper towels. Cut each zucchini lengthwise into quarters to create long, even spears.
- Prepare three separate shallow dishes: one with beaten eggs, another with breadcrumbs mixed with Italian seasoning, and the third with grated Parmesan cheese.
- Season the beaten eggs with a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix the breadcrumbs with Italian seasoning in the second dish.
- Dip each zucchini spear first into the beaten eggs, ensuring complete coverage, then roll in the seasoned breadcrumbs, and finally sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
- Arrange the coated zucchini spears on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are not touching each other for even cooking.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until the zucchini is tender and the coating is golden brown and crispy.
- Remove from the oven and let cool for 2-3 minutes before serving to allow the coating to set.
- Serve hot as a side dish or appetizer, optionally with a marinara sauce or ranch dressing for dipping.
Tips
- Choose fresh, firm zucchinis with smooth skin for the best texture and flavor.
- Pat the zucchini spears completely dry before coating to ensure maximum crispiness.
- Use a wire rack on your baking sheet for extra crunch, allowing air circulation around the spears.
- Don't overcrowd the baking sheet - space the spears apart for even browning.
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of garlic powder or smoked paprika to your breadcrumb mixture.
- Let the spears rest for a few minutes after baking to help the coating set and become extra crisp.
- Serve immediately for the best taste and texture - these are best enjoyed right out of the oven!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 180kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 12g
Fat: 9g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 85mg
