Are you looking for a delicious and healthy twist on traditional snack foods? Look no further than zucchini! This versatile summer squash can be transformed into a variety of crispy, oven-baked treats that are perfect for any time of day. From classic zucchini chips to innovative recipes like baked zucchini fritters and stuffed shells, we’ve rounded up 20 mouthwatering ideas to get you started.
In the following pages, we’ll dive into the world of crispy zucchini recipes, exploring everything from savory snacks to sweet treats. Whether you’re a busy parent looking for a quick and easy lunchbox filler or a foodie seeking new inspiration in the kitchen, these oven-baked delights are sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
So why wait? Let’s get started with our top 20 crispy zucchini recipes and see what culinary wonders we can create!
Garlic Parmesan Baked Zucchini Chips
Elevate your snacking game with this easy-to-make recipe for Garlic Parmesan Baked Zucchini Chips. These crispy, flavorful treats are perfect as a healthy snack or appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium zucchinis
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: paprika for extra color
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Slice zucchinis into 1/8-inch thick rounds. Place slices on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
3. In a small bowl, mix together Parmesan cheese and minced garlic.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the zucchini slices. Sprinkle the Parmesan-garlic mixture evenly over the zucchinis.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If desired, add a pinch of paprika for extra color.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until zucchini chips are crispy and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Oven-Roasted Zucchini and Tomato Medley
A flavorful and healthy side dish that brings out the best of summer’s bounty, this medley is perfect for accompanying your favorite grilled meats or as a vegetarian main course.
Ingredients:
- 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
- 2 large tomatoes, diced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Precare the oven to 425°F (220°C).
- In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and dried oregano. Add zucchini slices and toss to coat.
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Arrange zucchini slices in a single layer.
- Add diced tomatoes to the baking sheet, spreading them out evenly among the zucchini slices.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until vegetables are tender and lightly caramelized.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cheesy Zucchini Gratin with Breadcrumbs
A delicious summer side dish that’s perfect for a family dinner or a casual gathering. This creamy, cheesy gratin is made with fresh zucchini, breadcrumbs, and a hint of nutmeg.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add zucchini and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
3. In a separate bowl, combine cheddar, Parmesan, breadcrumbs, salt, pepper, and nutmeg.
4. In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, arrange cooked zucchini in a single layer.
5. Top with the cheese-breadcrumb mixture and bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Baked Zucchini Fries with Spicy Aioli
Elevate your snacking game with this simple recipe for Baked Zucchini Fries with Spicy Aioli. This healthier alternative to traditional fries is crispy, flavorful, and pairs perfectly with the creamy kick of spicy aioli.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium zucchinis
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 1/2 tsp garlic powder
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– Spicy Aioli (recipe below)
Spicy Aioli:
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tbsp sriracha sauce
– 1 tsp lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Slice zucchinis into fry shapes. In a bowl, mix together olive oil, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Add the zucchini fries and toss to coat.
3. Sprinkle flour over the zucchini fries and toss again to combine.
4. Place the zucchini fries on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until tender and crispy.
5. While the fries are baking, mix together Spicy Aioli ingredients in a bowl.
6. Serve warm zucchini fries with Spicy Aioli for dipping.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Herbed Zucchini and Potato Bake
A flavorful and nutritious side dish perfect for any occasion. This recipe combines the natural sweetness of zucchinis and potatoes with a hint of herbs, creating a deliciously balanced flavor profile.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium-sized zucchinis, sliced
– 2-3 large potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss together zucchinis, potatoes, olive oil, garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper until well combined.
3. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and top with cheddar cheese (if using).
4. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until the vegetables are tender and lightly browned.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Zucchini and Mozzarella Stuffed Shells
Elevate your pasta game with this creative twist on classic stuffed shells! The addition of zucchini and mozzarella cheese adds moisture, flavor, and texture to this creamy dish.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 medium zucchini, cooked and diced
– 8 oz ricotta cheese
– 6 oz shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine cooked zucchini, ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and egg. Mix well to combine.
4. Stuff each pasta shell with the zucchini-mozzarella mixture, placing them in a baking dish as you go.
5. Top shells with marinara sauce and shredded mozzarella cheese.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Sprinkle with chopped parsley (if using) and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Oven-Baked Zucchini Fritters
A delicious and healthier twist on traditional fritters, these oven-baked zucchini fritters are perfect for a quick snack or side dish. With only 5 ingredients, they’re easy to make and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium zucchinis, grated
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, combine zucchini, flour, cheese, and egg. Mix well.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Using a spoon, drop small portions of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
6. Serve warm, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Zucchini and Eggplant Parmesan Stacks
A creative twist on traditional eggplant parmesan, this recipe stacks zucchini and eggplant slices with melted mozzarella cheese for a flavorful and visually appealing dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium eggplants, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Fresh basil leaves
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a shallow dish, mix breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese.
3. Dip each zucchini and eggplant slice in beaten egg and then coat with breadcrumb mixture.
4. Place a spoonful of marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish. Arrange 2-3 stacked slices (eggplant-zucchini-eggplant) on top.
5. Sprinkle mozzarella cheese between layers and repeat process until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of cheese on top.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown. Garnish with fresh basil leaves.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Lemon Garlic Roasted Zucchini Spears
Brighten up your meal with these flavorful and easy-to-make roasted zucchini spears infused with the tanginess of lemon and pungency of garlic.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 medium-sized zucchinis, sliced into 1-inch thick spears
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the zucchini spears to the bowl and toss to coat with the lemon-garlic mixture.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the zucchinis and toss again to combine.
5. Spread the zucchinis in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender and slightly caramelized, flipping halfway through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Tips: You can adjust the amount of lemon juice to your taste. Additionally, you can add some chopped fresh parsley on top of the roasted zucchinis before serving for extra flavor and color.
Baked Zucchini and Corn Casserole
This delightful casserole is a perfect way to enjoy the flavors of summer in a warm, comforting dish. Fresh zucchini, corn, and a hint of cheese make for a mouthwatering combination that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium zucchinis, sliced
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels, thawed
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine zucchini slices, corn kernels, and cheddar cheese.
3. In a separate bowl, mix together breadcrumbs and olive oil.
4. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
5. Add the zucchini-corn mixture to the prepared baking dish.
6. Sprinkle breadcrumb mixture evenly over the top.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Panko-Crusted Zucchini Sticks
Enjoy the perfect combination of crunchy and tender with this simple recipe for Panko-Crusted Zucchini Sticks. This tasty snack is perfect for a quick appetizer or as a side dish for your favorite meals.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium zucchinis
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Slice the zucchinis into sticks.
3. In a shallow dish, mix together panko breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.
4. Dip each zucchini stick into the beaten egg and then coat with the panko mixture.
5. Place the coated zucchini sticks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Zucchini and Ricotta Stuffed Peppers
This recipe combines the sweetness of roasted peppers with the creaminess of ricotta cheese and the freshness of zucchini, making it a unique and flavorful twist on traditional stuffed peppers.
Ingredients:
– 4 bell peppers, any color
– 1 medium zucchini, grated
– 8 oz ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a bowl, combine grated zucchini, ricotta cheese, breadcrumbs, egg, salt, and pepper.
4. Stuff each pepper with the zucchini-ricotta mixture.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the peppers and cover with foil.
6. Bake for 25 minutes, then remove foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Oven-Roasted Zucchini with Feta and Mint
This simple recipe brings together the sweetness of zucchini, the tanginess of feta, and the brightness of fresh mint for a deliciously light and flavorful side dish perfect for warm weather.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium zucchinis
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint leaves
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Cut the zucchinis into 1-inch slices.
3. In a bowl, toss the zucchini slices with olive oil, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
4. Spread the zucchini mixture on a baking sheet in a single layer.
5. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender and lightly caramelized.
6. Remove from oven and top with crumbled feta cheese and chopped mint leaves.
7. Serve warm, garnished with additional mint if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Zucchini and Chicken Bake with Herbs
This flavorful recipe combines tender chicken, sautéed zucchini, and aromatic herbs for a nutritious and delicious meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium zucchinis, sliced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh oregano
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
3. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside. Add zucchini, garlic, oregano, and thyme to the skillet. Cook until zucchini is tender, about 4-5 minutes.
4. In a large baking dish, arrange cooked zucchini mixture in an even layer. Top with browned chicken and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
5. If using mozzarella cheese, sprinkle on top of chicken.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until chicken is fully cooked.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Baked Zucchini and Tomato Ratatouille
This hearty and flavorful ratatouille recipe combines the sweetness of zucchini and tomatoes with a hint of Mediterranean flair. Perfect as a side dish or used as a topping for pasta, rice, or meat.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium-sized zucchinis, sliced
– 3 large tomatoes, diced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss together zucchini, tomatoes, olive oil, onion, garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper until well combined.
3. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and bake for 30-40 minutes or until the vegetables are tender and lightly caramelized.
4. Remove from oven and drizzle with balsamic vinegar (if using).
5. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Zucchini and Sausage Stuffed Shells
Elevate your pasta game with this creative twist on classic stuffed shells! This recipe combines the flavors of zucchini, sausage, and ricotta for a satisfying and flavorful meal.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 medium zucchini, finely chopped
– 1 pound sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook sausage over medium-high heat until browned, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks.
4. Add zucchini to the skillet and cook until tender.
5. In a mixing bowl, combine cooked sausage and zucchini mixture, ricotta cheese, mozzarella, Parmesan, and egg. Mix well.
6. Stuff each pasta shell with the filling mixture and place in a baking dish.
7. Top with marinara sauce and remaining mozzarella. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Oven-Baked Zucchini and Onion Tart
This savory tart is a perfect summer side dish or main course, packed with the flavors of caramelized onions, zucchini, and cheese. With minimal prep time and a low oven temperature, it’s an easy and stress-free option for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 sheet of frozen puff pastry, thawed
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook onions over medium-low heat for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until caramelized.
3. Roll out puff pastry on a floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
4. Arrange zucchini slices and cooked onions on one half of the pastry, leaving a 1/2-inch border.
5. Sprinkle cheese over the vegetables.
6. Fold the other half of the pastry over the filling, pressing edges to seal.
7. Brush with egg wash (beaten egg mixed with 1 tablespoon water) for golden brown finish.
8. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Zucchini and Goat Cheese Phyllo Rolls
These crispy, savory pastries are perfect as an appetizer or snack. Flaky phyllo dough wraps around a flavorful filling of zucchini, goat cheese, and fresh herbs.
Ingredients:
– 1 package phyllo dough (usually found in the freezer section)
– 2 medium zucchinis, grated
– 1/4 cup crumbled goat cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Thaw phyllo dough according to package instructions.
3. In a bowl, combine grated zucchini, crumbled goat cheese, chopped parsley, garlic, salt, and pepper.
4. Lay out a piece of phyllo dough on a flat surface. Brush with olive oil.
5. Place about 1 tablespoon of the zucchini mixture in the center of the dough.
6. Fold the bottom half of the dough up over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll into a neat cylinder.
7. Repeat with remaining ingredients. Arrange rolls seam-side down on a baking sheet.
8. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Roasted Zucchini and Chickpeas
Add a flavorful twist to your vegetable side dish with this simple and spicy recipe. The combination of roasted zucchini, chickpeas, and a hint of cumin will elevate any meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium zucchinis
– 1 can chickpeas (15 oz), drained and rinsed
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1-2 dried red chili flakes (optional, for extra heat)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Cut the zucchinis into 1-inch slices.
3. In a large bowl, toss together the zucchini, chickpeas, olive oil, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until well coated.
4. Spread the mixture on a baking sheet in a single layer.
5. Roast for 25-30 minutes, or until the zucchinis are tender and lightly caramelized.
6. If desired, sprinkle with dried red chili flakes during the last 5 minutes of roasting.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Zucchini and Pesto Stuffed Chicken Breast
Elevate your dinner game with this flavorful and moist chicken breast recipe, packed with the sweetness of zucchini and the richness of pesto. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 medium zucchini, finely chopped
– 1/2 cup pesto
– 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together chopped zucchini, pesto, and mozzarella cheese.
3. Lay the chicken breasts flat and make a horizontal incision in each breast to create a pocket.
4. Stuff each breast with the zucchini-pesto mixture, dividing it evenly among the four breasts.
5. Close the incision and secure with toothpicks if needed.
6. Place the stuffed chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Get ready to go green with these 20 crispy zucchini recipes! From classic baked zucchini fries with spicy aioli to innovative zucchini and ricotta stuffed peppers, there’s something for everyone. Enjoy oven-roasted medleys with tomatoes, cheesy gratins with breadcrumbs, and more. Discover how to turn humble zucchinis into tasty appetizers, main courses, and even desserts. With these simple and delicious recipes, you’ll be hooked on the flavor and versatility of this summer squash. So go ahead, get baking, and indulge in a world of crispy zucchini delights!
