There is something irresistibly delightful about the Baked Zucchini Spears with Garlic, Parmesan, and Herbs Recipe that makes it a favorite in my kitchen. These spears boast a perfect balance of tender zucchini wrapped in a golden, garlicky, parmesan crust with a fresh herb punch. They’re simple enough to whip up on a busy weeknight but impressive enough to serve at a gathering, adding a vibrant pop of color and flavor that everyone will rave about. Trust me, once you taste this recipe, you’ll be hooked on this deliciously comforting dish that transforms humble zucchini into a star!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the ingredients just right is the key to nailing this Baked Zucchini Spears with Garlic, Parmesan, and Herbs Recipe. Each one is essential, bringing its own magic to the table, from the freshness of the zucchini to the savory cheese and fragrant herbs.
- 2 medium sized zucchini: Choose firm, fresh zucchini for the best texture and color.
- 2 cloves garlic (peeled and minced): Garlic infuses a wonderful, aromatic depth to the spears.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps the seasoning stick and ensures a perfectly roasted finish.
- 1 teaspoon oregano: Adds a subtle herbal earthiness that complements the cheese beautifully.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the other flavors and balances the zucchini’s natural moisture.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a hint of warmth and spice that livens up the dish.
- 1/3 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese: The star topping that melts and browns into a delicious savory crust.
How to Make Baked Zucchini Spears with Garlic, Parmesan, and Herbs Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheet
Start by preheating your oven to a toasty 425°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper—this makes cleanup a breeze and keeps the zucchini from sticking, ensuring crisp, golden edges every time.
Step 2: Cut the Zucchini into Spears
Give your zucchini a good rinse under cold water. Cut each zucchini in half lengthwise, then cut each half into two or more spears so that you end up with long, even spears. This shape is perfect for quick roasting and makes them easy to grab for snacking or serving.
Step 3: Coat with Garlic and Olive Oil
Rub each zucchini spear generously with the minced garlic and olive oil. This step is where the flavor really begins to build; the garlic clings to every nook and cranny, while the olive oil helps everything crisp up in the oven.
Step 4: Season and Add Parmesan
Lay the spears skin side down on your baking sheet, then sprinkle with oregano, salt, and black pepper. Finally, shower them with freshly grated parmesan cheese, which will melt and create a divine, slightly crunchy topping.
Step 5: Bake and Broil to Perfection
Bake your spears at 425°F for about 15 minutes until the zucchini is tender but not mushy. To add that beautiful golden finish, switch the oven to broil and cook for another 3 to 4 minutes, watching closely so the parmesan browns but does not burn.
Step 6: Serve Warm
Once perfectly baked and bubbly, remove the zucchini spears from the oven and let them cool just a little. Serving them warm brings out all the garlicky, cheesy flavors that make this dish so addictive.
How to Serve Baked Zucchini Spears with Garlic, Parmesan, and Herbs Recipe
Garnishes
Enhance your zucchini spears with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or basil to add a fresh, green brightness. A dash of crushed red pepper flakes can add a touch of heat if you love a little kick, while a drizzle of lemon juice can brighten the entire dish with its zesty finish.
Side Dishes
These baked zucchini spears make a fantastic side to grilled chicken or steak, complementing rich protein dishes beautifully. They’re also a great partner for pasta, rice, or a light salad, adding a crunchy, flavorful veggie element without stealing the show.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun appetizer, serve the spears with a side of marinara or garlic aioli for dipping. You can also pack them into warm pita pockets with a dollop of tzatziki and some fresh tomatoes for an easy Mediterranean bite. The possibilities are endless and perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They’ll still retain their flavor and texture nicely, making for a quick reheat snack or side dish during your busy week.
Freezing
It’s best to enjoy this Baked Zucchini Spears with Garlic, Parmesan, and Herbs Recipe fresh, as zucchini can become watery and lose texture when frozen. For best results, avoid freezing to preserve the crispness and flavor.
Reheating
To reheat, place leftover spears on a baking sheet and warm them in a 350°F oven for about 5 to 7 minutes until heated through and the cheese perks up again. Avoid microwaving to keep them from becoming soggy.
FAQs
Can I use other types of cheese instead of Parmesan?
Absolutely! While Parmesan is classic for its sharp, nutty flavor and excellent browning qualities, Pecorino Romano or a finely grated Asiago can offer a different yet equally delicious spin on the dish.
What if I don’t have oregano on hand?
No worries—thyme, basil, or Italian seasoning blends work beautifully as substitutes. Each will add a unique herbal layer without overpowering the garlic and parmesan flavors.
Is this recipe suitable for a gluten-free diet?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it a great choice for anyone avoiding gluten. Just be sure to check the parmesan cheese label to confirm it’s free from additives containing gluten.
Can I make these zucchini spears vegan?
Definitely! Simply swap out the parmesan for a vegan cheese alternative or nutritional yeast for that cheesy, savory taste while keeping everything else the same. The garlic and herbs still bring a ton of flavor.
What is the best way to choose zucchini for this recipe?
Look for zucchini that is firm, unblemished, and medium-sized for the best results. Younger, thinner zucchini tend to be more tender and less watery, which works perfectly for baking into spears.
Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for a vegetable side that’s bursting with flavor, quick to make, and universally loved, the Baked Zucchini Spears with Garlic, Parmesan, and Herbs Recipe is your go-to. It’s a wonderful way to elevate simple ingredients into a crowd-pleasing dish that feels indulgent yet wholesome. I can’t wait for you to try it—you might just find your new favorite way to enjoy zucchini!
Print
Baked Zucchini Spears with Garlic, Parmesan, and Herbs Recipe
- Prep Time: 6 minutes
- Cook Time: 19 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Baked Zucchini Spears offer a delicious and healthy side dish that’s quick to prepare and full of flavor. Tender zucchini spears are seasoned with garlic, oregano, and Parmesan cheese, then baked until perfectly tender and lightly browned, making them perfect for any meal.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 2 medium sized zucchini
Seasonings and Oils
- 2 cloves garlic (peeled and minced)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Cheese
- 1/3 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and set it aside for later use.
- Prepare Zucchini Spears: Wash the zucchini thoroughly, then cut each zucchini lengthwise into four spears, resulting in a total of eight spears.
- Season the Zucchini: Rub each zucchini spear with the minced garlic and olive oil, ensuring each piece is evenly coated. Then arrange the spears skin side down on the prepared baking sheet.
- Add Spices and Cheese: Sprinkle the zucchini spears evenly with oregano, salt, black pepper, and freshly grated Parmesan cheese to enhance their flavor.
- Bake and Broil: Bake the zucchini at 425°F for 15 minutes or until they are tender. Then switch the oven to broil and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until the tops are golden brown and slightly crisp.
- Serve: Serve the baked zucchini spears warm as a delightful appetizer or a side dish to complement your meal.
Notes
- Make sure to cut zucchini into even-sized spears for uniform cooking.
- You can adjust the amount of garlic and Parmesan cheese according to taste preferences.
- If you don’t have fresh Parmesan, grated Parmesan from a container works as well.
- Broiling at the end helps achieve a nice golden crust but watch carefully to prevent burning.
- Baked zucchini spears can be enjoyed immediately or served with a dipping sauce like marinara or ranch.
