Parmesan Crusted Zucchini and Yellow Squash Recipe

If you’re on the hunt for a simple yet utterly delicious way to jazz up your veggies, this Parmesan Crusted Zucchini and Yellow Squash Recipe is going to become your new go-to. Crispy, cheesy, and bursting with fresh, garden-goodness flavors, these golden rounds make for an irresistible snack, side dish, or even a light meal. The combination of tender zucchini and sweet yellow squash coated in a crunchy, flavorful Parmesan crust is just the kind of comfort food that’s easy to love and impressively easy to make.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You really don’t need a long list of fancy ingredients to make this Parmesan Crusted Zucchini and Yellow Squash Recipe sing. Each component plays an essential role in balancing flavor, texture, and that perfect golden color that will make your oven timer your best friend.

• 2 small zucchini: Choose firm and fresh ones for the best texture and flavor in every bite.
• 2 small yellow squash: These add beautiful color and a mild sweetness that complements the zucchini perfectly.
• 3 tablespoons olive oil: This helps the squash slices crisp up without drying out and adds a rich, fruity note.
• 3/4 teaspoon salt: Just enough to enhance the natural flavors of the squash.
• Fresh cracked pepper: Adds a spicy kick—don’t be shy to add as much as you love!
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: This is the star that forms the irresistible golden crust and brings a salty, nutty depth.

How to Make Parmesan Crusted Zucchini and Yellow Squash Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Start by preheating your oven to 400 degrees F. Line a large rimmed baking sheet with foil for easy cleanup, or go foil-free if you prefer. This sets the stage for those perfect roasted slices.

Step 2: Slice the Squash

Slice both zucchini and yellow squash into thin, 1/8 inch rounds. If you like smaller bites, cut those rounds in half. The thin slices allow the cheese to crisp beautifully while the inside stays tender.

Step 3: Season and Coat

Pop the slices into a large bowl and drizzle olive oil over them, then sprinkle with salt and plenty of freshly cracked pepper. Toss everything together so every piece is evenly coated—this step ensures flavor goes right to the core.

Step 4: Arrange on the Pan

Spread the oiled squash slices out on your prepared baking sheet. Try to keep them in a single layer so they roast evenly and get that perfect crisp edge.

Step 5: Sprinkle with Parmesan

Now, the fun part—sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese evenly over all the squash rounds. This cheese layer is what makes this recipe pop with flavor and texture.

Step 6: Roast to Perfection

Place the pan in your preheated oven and roast for 9 to 10 minutes until the squash are tender and the cheese has started to melt and brown.

Step 7: Broil for Crispy Finish

Switch your oven to broil and move the pan to the top rack. Broil for 2 to 3 minutes, but keep a close eye on it—this quick step makes the Parmesan crust crunchy and golden without burning.

Step 8: Watch and Wait

Check frequently until the crust has reached your preferred level of crispiness and color. The intense heat quickly turns the cheese delightfully brown and crispy.

Step 9: Serve Immediately

Once out of the oven, serve your Parmesan Crusted Zucchini and Yellow Squash Recipe piping hot. The contrast between crispy edges and soft centers is pure magic.

How to Serve Parmesan Crusted Zucchini and Yellow Squash Recipe

Garnishes

Add a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or basil for a burst of green freshness and a little pop of color. A light drizzle of balsamic glaze can also elevate the earthy flavors wonderfully.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, roasted meats, or even a zesty quinoa salad. Its versatility makes it a great partner to so many meals, adding a flavorful vegetable crunch that everyone will enjoy.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, stack the rounds in little towers, securing them with toothpicks for a bite-sized appetizer. Or, serve on a platter alongside a tangy yogurt dip or marinara sauce for dipping, turning this into a shareable party pleaser.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The crust will soften slightly but the flavors remain just as delightful when enjoyed cold or reheated.

Freezing

This dish doesn’t freeze well due to the delicate texture of the squash and the cheese crust. For best results, enjoy it fresh or within a couple of days after cooking.

Reheating

To bring back some crispiness after refrigeration, pop the leftovers in a 350-degree oven for about 8 to 10 minutes. Avoid microwaving if you want to preserve that glorious crunch.

FAQs

Can I use other types of squash for this recipe?

Absolutely! While zucchini and yellow squash are classic choices, feel free to try pattypan or crookneck squash as well. Just slice them thinly for consistent cooking.

Is Parmesan the only cheese I can use?

Parmesan shines here because of its nutty, salty flavor and crisping ability. However, Pecorino Romano or Asiago can be great substitutes if you want to experiment.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

You can! Swap the Parmesan for a plant-based cheese or nutritional yeast. Keep in mind the texture and crispiness might differ slightly, but it will still be delicious.

How thin should the squash slices be?

Around 1/8 inch thick is perfect to achieve tender insides with crispy edges. Thicker slices may not get as crisp and will take longer to cook.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prepping?

Yes! You can prepare the squash slices ahead of time and season them before roasting when you’re ready. The finished dish keeps well in the fridge for a few days.

Final Thoughts

I hope you feel as excited as I do to try out this Parmesan Crusted Zucchini and Yellow Squash Recipe. It’s a straightforward, crowd-pleasing dish that celebrates simple ingredients with maximum flavor and texture. Once you taste these crispy, cheesy rounds, you’ll find yourself reaching for this recipe again and again to brighten up your meals and snack times.

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