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Baked Parmesan Zucchini – A Perfect Christmas & Thanksgiving Side Dish

When the holiday table is filled with rich, hearty dishes, you need a side that’s light, flavorful, and comforting at the same time. Baked Parmesan Zucchini is exactly that kind of recipe. Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and coated with savory Parmesan, this dish brings balance and freshness to festive meals without stealing the spotlight. This recipe is especially perfect for Christmas and Thanksgiving because it’s: Easy to prepare alongside big holiday mains Loved by both adults and kids Naturally vegetarian Light enough to complement heavier dishes With minimal ingredients and a short bake time, this baked zucchini recipe delivers maximum flavor with very little effort. It’s a side dish that feels special enough for holidays, yet simple enough for everyday dinners.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • Prepare all ingredients before starting.
Vegetables
  • 4 medium zucchini sliced lengthwise into spears
Coating
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
  • ½ teaspoon sea salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
Fats
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
Ingredient Notes:
  • Fresh zucchini should be firm for the best texture.
  • Parmesan adds a savory nutty flavor and helps create a crisp crust.
  • Italian seasoning brings a festive herb aroma perfect for holidays.

Equipment

  • To prepare baked Parmesan zucchini, you’ll need:
  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper or foil
  • Mixing bowl
  • Measuring spoons
  • Knife and cutting board
  • Spatula or tongs
  • Tip: Using parchment paper helps prevent sticking and ensures even browning.

Method
 

  1. Follow these steps for perfectly golden baked Parmesan zucchini.
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
  1. Preheat oven to 220°C (425°F).
  2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 2: Prepare the Zucchini
  1. Wash and dry the zucchini.
  2. Slice each zucchini lengthwise into even spears.
Step 3: Season the Zucchini
  1. Place zucchini spears in a large bowl.
  2. Drizzle with olive oil.
  3. Sprinkle garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
  4. Toss gently until evenly coated.
Step 4: Add Parmesan
  1. Sprinkle grated Parmesan over the zucchini.
  2. Toss lightly so the cheese sticks to the oil-coated surfaces.
Step 5: Arrange for Baking
  1. Arrange zucchini spears in a single layer on the baking sheet.
  2. Make sure they are not overlapping.
Step 6: Bake
  1. Bake for 15–18 minutes, until zucchini is tender and Parmesan is golden.
Step 7: Optional Crisp Finish
  1. Switch oven to broil for 2–3 minutes for extra crispiness.
  2. Watch closely to prevent burning.
Step 8: Serve
  1. Remove from oven and serve immediately while warm and crispy.

Notes

🧊 Storage & Reheating
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days
Reheating
Reheat in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for 8–10 minutes
Tip: Avoid microwaving to keep the zucchini crisp.
🥄 Variations
Customize your baked Parmesan zucchini for different occasions:
Extra Crispy Version
Add a tablespoon of breadcrumbs
Herb-Forward Holiday Style
Add dried thyme or oregano
Spicy Twist
Add chili flakes
Cheese Blend
Mix Parmesan with grated mozzarella
Garlic Lover’s Version
Add fresh minced garlic before baking
❓ 10 FAQs
Is this recipe good for holidays?
Yes, it’s perfect for Christmas and Thanksgiving.
Does zucchini get soggy?
Not if baked at high heat.
Can I make it ahead of time?
Best served fresh, but can be reheated.
Is this dish vegetarian?
Yes, completely vegetarian.
Can I use yellow squash instead?
Yes, it works very well.
Do I need breadcrumbs?
No, Parmesan alone creates crispness.
Is this kid-friendly?
Yes, mild and cheesy.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, use two baking sheets.
What does it pair well with?
Roasted meats, poultry, or plant-based mains.
Can I air fry it?
Yes, cook at 200°C (400°F) for 8–10 minutes.
🏁 Conclusion
This baked Parmesan zucchini is proof that simple side dishes can still feel festive and special. Crispy, cheesy, and perfectly seasoned, it’s a lighter addition to your Christmas or Thanksgiving table that everyone will appreciate.
Whether you’re planning a holiday feast or just want an easy vegetable side that delivers big flavor, this recipe is a guaranteed winner you’ll come back to year after year.