Description

Baked zucchini rounds coated in a double-layer breading of flour, egg, and parmesan cheese for a crispy, crunchy texture without the guilt of deep frying. Served warm with tangy marinara sauce.

Ingredients

Scale

3 large medium zucchini (about 1.5 pounds / 680g)
½ cup all-purpose flour (60g)
2 large eggs, beaten
1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (100g)
½ cup panko breadcrumbs (50g)
1 teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon salt
Pinch of black pepper
1 cup marinara sauce
Olive oil (for brushing)
Optional: Fresh basil leaves, red pepper flakes

Instructions

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or wire racks.
Wash zucchini, trim ends, and slice into ¼-inch rounds. Pat slices thoroughly dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
Set up three shallow bowls: Bowl 1 with flour mixed with salt and pepper; Bowl 2 with beaten eggs; Bowl 3 with breadcrumbs mixed with parmesan and garlic powder.
Dip each zucchini slice in flour, shaking off excess. Then dip in egg, letting excess drip off. Finally, press into the breadcrumb-parmesan mixture to coat both sides.
Place breaded rounds on baking sheets, ensuring they do not touch. Lightly brush tops with olive oil.
Bake for 15 minutes, flipping rounds halfway through, until golden brown and crisp.
While zucchini bakes, warm marinara sauce in a small saucepan over low heat.
Serve hot zucchini rounds immediately with warm marinara for dipping.

Notes

Pat zucchini dry thoroughly to ensure crispiness. Do not overcrowd the baking sheet. Can be made ahead by breading rounds and refrigerating for up to 2 hours before baking. Reheat in oven at 350°F to restore crispiness.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Appetizer
Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

Serving Size: 4 rounds per serving
Calories: 180
Sugar: 3
Sodium: 320
Fat: 9
Saturated Fat: 3
Carbohydrates: 15
Fiber: 2
Protein: 8

Keywords: zucchini, parmesan, baked zucchini, appetizer, healthy snacks, gluten-free option, dairy-free option, summer recipes, marinara dip