Got it! ✨ Zucchini Rounds are a quick, healthy, and versatile snack or side dish. They can be baked, air-fried, or pan-fried for a crispy outside and tender inside. You can make them cheesy, herby, or spicy depending on your mood. Here’s a full detailed recipe:
Crispy Zucchini Rounds
Ingredients
- 2 medium zucchinis
- 2 tbsp olive oil (or melted butter for richer flavor)
- ½ cup breadcrumbs (panko for extra crunch)
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp paprika (optional, for color)
- Salt & black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
1. Prep the Zucchini
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C) (or set air fryer to 400°F / 200°C).
- Wash and slice zucchinis into ¼-inch thick rounds. Pat dry with a paper towel (this helps crisp them up).
2. Coat the Rounds
- In a small bowl, mix breadcrumbs, Parmesan, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Brush zucchini slices lightly with olive oil.
- Dip each slice into the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to coat.
3. Cook the Zucchini
Oven-Baked:
- Arrange rounds on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Bake for 18–20 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crisp.
Air-Fried:
- Place in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
- Cook for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway.
Pan-Fried (extra crispy):
- Heat 2–3 tbsp oil in a skillet.
- Fry rounds for 2–3 minutes per side, until golden brown.
4. Serve
- Garnish with fresh parsley or basil.
- Serve hot with marinara sauce, ranch, or garlic aioli for dipping.
Variations
- Cheesy Rounds: Sprinkle extra mozzarella or cheddar on top during the last 5 minutes of baking.
- Spicy Kick: Add chili flakes or cayenne pepper to the breadcrumb mix.
- Lighter Version: Skip the breadcrumbs and just roast zucchini slices with olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper.
Would you like me to also share a Parmesan-crusted version where the zucchini rounds get baked with melty cheese on top?