Baked Zucchini

Delicious baked zucchini recipe with parmesan and garlic

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 25-30 minutes
Total time: 40-45 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Baked zucchini is a simple, healthy, and delicious dish, perfect for a quick lunch or as a side dish for a festive meal. This recipe combines the delicate flavors of zucchini with the intense taste of parmesan and garlic, offering an unforgettable culinary experience. Here’s how you can prepare it step by step.

Ingredients:
- 2-3 medium-sized zucchinis
- 3-4 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil
- 100 g grated parmesan (or feta for a milder option)
- 50 g cornflakes (for a delicious crunch)
- Freshly ground pepper, to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon sweet paprika
- 1 head of garlic, crushed or finely chopped
- Salt, to taste

Instructions:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Preheat the oven to 200°C. Wash the zucchinis well under cold running water. You can choose young and small zucchinis as they have a finer texture and a sweeter taste.

2. Cutting the zucchinis: Peel them (if you prefer, you can leave the skin on for added vitamins). Cut them lengthwise into quarters to create long, thin slices. This will allow for even cooking and perfect caramelization.

3. Preparing the crust mixture: In a bowl, mix the grated parmesan with crushed cornflakes (you can use a food processor or crush them with a rolling pin), pepper, and sweet paprika. The cornflakes add a crunchy texture to the dish, while the paprika provides a touch of color and flavor.

4. Seasoning the zucchinis: Place the zucchinis on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle them with olive oil and sprinkle the crushed garlic over them. The oil will help soften the zucchinis and aid in forming the crunchy crust.

5. Adding the crust: Evenly sprinkle the parmesan and cornflake mixture over the zucchinis, ensuring each piece is well covered. This will form a delicious crust during baking.

6. Baking: Place the tray in the preheated oven and bake the zucchinis for 25-30 minutes, or until they become golden and crispy. You can check their consistency by inserting a fork; they should be tender and easily pierced.

7. Serving: Remove the zucchinis from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. They will be delicious both warm and at room temperature. You can serve them alongside a fresh salad or as a side for grilled meat.

Variation suggestions: You can experiment with different types of cheese, such as mozzarella or goat cheese, for a distinct flavor. Additionally, you can add herbs like oregano or thyme for an extra flavor boost.

This baked zucchini recipe is not only simple but also quick, perfect for any occasion. Enjoy the unique flavors and textures of this dish, and your family and friends will be delighted by your culinary delights. Bon appétit!