Parmesan Crusted Zucchini Wedges

Parmesan Crusted Zucchini Wedges are a delightful and crispy side dish that brings out the best in fresh zucchini. These flavorful wedges are perfect for any occasion, whether you’re serving them at a holiday gathering or enjoying a casual family dinner. Coated in a crunchy parmesan and panko mixture, they offer a satisfying texture and taste that will wow your guests. Plus, they’re easy to make and a fantastic way to sneak some vegetables into your meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crispy Texture: The panko breadcrumbs combined with Parmesan create an irresistible crunch.
• Versatile Dish: Serve as a side for dinner or as a snack during game day.
• Quick Preparation: Ready in just one hour from start to finish.
• Healthy Option: A great way to enjoy veggies without compromising on flavor.
• Kid-Friendly: Even picky eaters will love these tasty zucchini wedges.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools for a smooth experience. Having the right equipment makes all the difference when preparing these delicious Parmesan Crusted Zucchini Wedges.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Rack
• Pastry brush
• Mixing bowls

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: Essential for even cooking and helps achieve that golden-brown finish.
• Rack: Allows air circulation, ensuring crispy edges while preventing sogginess.
• Pastry brush: Perfect for evenly applying the mayonnaise mixture to the zucchini.

Ingredients

For the Zucchini Wedges

• 8 small to medium zucchini
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 2 teaspoons dry parsley
• 1 teaspoon dry oregano
• 1 teaspoon dry basil
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder

For the Coating

• ¼ cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• Cooking/pan spray

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Parmesan Crusted Zucchini Wedges

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F. Position the oven rack in the top third of the oven to enhance browning while baking.

Step 2: Prepare Your Baking Sheet

Line a baking sheet with foil and fit it with a rack of the same size. Lightly spray the rack with kitchen pan spray to prevent sticking.

Step 3: Cut the Zucchini

Trim both ends off each zucchini. Slice each zucchini in half lengthwise, then cut each half into quarters, yielding a total of 32 long wedges.

Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, freshly grated Parmesan cheese, kosher salt, black pepper, dry parsley, dry oregano, dry basil, and garlic powder. Mix well until everything is evenly incorporated.

Step 5: Combine Mayonnaise and Oil

In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise and extra virgin olive oil until smooth.

Step 6: Brush Zucchini with Mayonnaise Mixture

Lay all cut zucchini quarters cut side up on your cutting board. Use a pastry brush to generously coat the tops of each wedge with the mayonnaise mixture.

Step 7: Bread Zucchini Wedges

Lift each zucchini quarter individually over the breadcrumb mixture. Sprinkle breading over both cut sides until fully coated. Place each breaded wedge on the prepared baking sheet with cut sides facing up.

Step 8: Bake in Oven

Once all wedges are breaded and arranged on the baking sheet, lightly spray their tops with kitchen pan spray. Place them in the preheated oven.

Step 9: Rotate and Continue Baking

Bake for 15 minutes before rotating the pan. Continue baking for another 15 minutes or until golden brown.

Step 10: Broil if Necessary

If they aren’t browned enough after baking, switch to broil for one or two minutes but keep an eye on them to avoid burning.

Step 11: Serve Immediately

Remove from oven and serve hot for maximum crispiness! Enjoy your delicious Parmesan Crusted Zucchini Wedges!

How to Serve Parmesan Crusted Zucchini Wedges

Parmesan Crusted Zucchini Wedges are a delightful side dish that pairs well with various meals. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enjoy these crispy treats.

With Dipping Sauces

• Ranch Dressing: A classic choice that complements the savory flavor of the zucchini.
• Marinara Sauce: For an Italian twist, dip these wedges in marinara for a delicious combination.
• Garlic Aioli: This creamy garlic sauce adds richness and enhances the taste of the zucchini.

As a Snack

• Party Platter: Serve them on a platter with other appetizers for a crowd-pleasing snack.
• Movie Night Treat: Enjoy them while watching your favorite film for a healthier alternative to popcorn.

Paired with Entrees

• Grilled Chicken: The crispy texture of the zucchini wedges contrasts beautifully with juicy grilled chicken.
• Pan-Seared Salmon: Pairing these wedges with salmon creates a balanced meal that’s both flavorful and nutritious.

How to Perfect Parmesan Crusted Zucchini Wedges

Getting your Parmesan Crusted Zucchini Wedges just right can elevate your dish. Here are some tips to ensure perfect results every time.

• Use Fresh Zucchini: Fresh, firm zucchini will yield better texture and flavor than older, softer ones.
• Season Generously: Don’t skimp on seasoning the breading; it enhances the overall taste of the dish.
• Ensure Even Coating: Make sure each wedge is evenly coated in the mayonnaise and breading mixture for consistent flavor.
• Adjust Cooking Time: Depending on your oven, you may need to adjust cooking times for desired crispiness; keep an eye on them while baking.

Best Side Dishes for Parmesan Crusted Zucchini Wedges

Parmesan Crusted Zucchini Wedges can be complemented by various side dishes to create a satisfying meal. Here are some excellent options.

1. Caesar Salad: A crisp Caesar salad provides a refreshing contrast to the warm, cheesy zucchini.
2. Quinoa Pilaf: Nutty quinoa pilaf adds protein and pairs well with the savory flavors of the zucchini.
3. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes offer comfort and balance to your plate.
4. Roasted Veggies: A medley of roasted seasonal vegetables can enhance the meal’s nutrition and color.
5. Coleslaw: Crunchy coleslaw brings freshness and tanginess that complements the fried goodness of the wedges.
6. Stuffed Peppers: Flavorful stuffed peppers can create a hearty combination alongside your zucchini wedges.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Parmesan Crusted Zucchini Wedges, a few common mistakes can affect the final result. Avoiding these pitfalls will ensure your dish turns out perfectly crispy and flavorful.

• Not Preheating the Oven: Skipping this step can lead to uneven cooking. Always preheat your oven to 375 degrees F for optimal results.

• Using Wet Zucchini: If zucchini is wet, the breading may not stick well. Make sure to dry them thoroughly after washing.

• Overcrowding the Sheet Tray: Placing too many zucchini wedges on the tray can result in steaming rather than browning. Ensure there’s enough space between each piece.

• Skipping the Mayo Mixture: The mayonnaise adds moisture and helps the breading adhere. Don’t skip it, as it’s essential for a crispy texture.

• Not Rotating the Pan: Failing to rotate the pan halfway through cooking can cause uneven browning. Always give your zucchini a good turn for consistent results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Parmesan Crusted Zucchini Wedges in an airtight container.
• They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Parmesan Crusted Zucchini Wedges

• For longer storage, freeze uncooked or cooked zucchini wedges.
• Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container, and they will last up to 2 months.

Reheating Parmesan Crusted Zucchini Wedges

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350 degrees F and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy.

• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, but note this may make them less crispy.

• Stovetop: Use a skillet over medium heat; add a bit of oil and cook for about 5 minutes on each side until warmed and crispy.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make Parmesan Crusted Zucchini Wedges gluten-free?

You can substitute panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers for a similar texture without gluten.

Can I use different cheeses in Parmesan Crusted Zucchini Wedges?

Absolutely! While Parmesan is traditional, you can experiment with other cheeses like pecorino or mozzarella for different flavors.

How do I prevent soggy zucchini?

To avoid sogginess, ensure that you pat dry your zucchini slices before breading and refrain from overcrowding while baking.

What dips pair well with Parmesan Crusted Zucchini Wedges?

These wedges go great with marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or garlic aioli for dipping!

Final Thoughts

Parmesan Crusted Zucchini Wedges are not only delicious but also versatile. They make a great side dish or snack any time of year. Feel free to customize them with your favorite herbs or spices to suit your taste preferences. Enjoy this crunchy treat that is sure to impress everyone at your table!

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