Zucchini Parmesan Crisps

Zucchini Parmesan Crisps Recipe - Authentic Italian Appetizer

Region / culture: Italy | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 25 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Zucchini Parmesan Crisps are a delicious and crispy snack or side dish that is perfect for any occasion. These crispy rounds of zucchini are coated in a flavorful mixture of parmesan cheese, bread crumbs, and seasonings, then baked to perfection. They are a great way to enjoy the fresh flavors of zucchini in a fun and tasty way.

History

Zucchini Parmesan Crisps are a popular dish that originated in Italy, where zucchini is a staple ingredient in many dishes. The combination of zucchini, parmesan cheese, and bread crumbs creates a delicious and crispy snack that is loved by many around the world.

Ingredients

1 lb (454 g) zucchini or squash (about 2 medium sized)
0.25 cup shredded parmesan cheese
0.25 cup bread crumbs or (croutons, french fried onions, etc.)
1 tbsp olive oil
0.75 tsp Tony's creole seasoning or (salt & pepper)

How to prepare

Preheat the oven to 400°F. Line 2 baking sheets with foil and lightly spray with vegetable spray.
Slice the zucchini into rounds that are 0.25 inches thick. Toss the rounds with oil, making sure they are well coated.
In a wide bowl or plate, combine bread crumbs (or croutons, crushed fried onions, etc.), cheese, and seasoning. Mix well.
Place the zucchini rounds in the mixture, coating both sides of each round. The mixture may not completely cover each round, but it will provide a light coating.
Arrange the coated rounds flat on the baking sheets and sprinkle the remaining bread crumbs over them.
Place the baking sheets in the oven and bake for 22 to 27 minutes, or until the rounds turn golden brown.
Remove the baking sheets from the oven and let the zucchini rounds cool for a few minutes before serving.

Variations

Try using different seasonings or herbs in the bread crumb mixture for a different flavor profile.
Substitute the parmesan cheese with another type of cheese, such as cheddar or mozzarella.
Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to slice the zucchini into evenly sized rounds to ensure even cooking.

- Coat the zucchini rounds well with oil to help the bread crumb mixture stick.

- Be sure to arrange the coated rounds in a single layer on the baking sheets to ensure they cook evenly.

- Keep an eye on the zucchini while baking to prevent them from burning.

Serving Suggestions

Zucchini Parmesan Crisps can be served as a snack, appetizer, or side dish. They pair well with marinara sauce or ranch dressing for dipping.

Cooking Techniques

Baking

Ingredient Substitutions

Use panko bread crumbs instead of regular bread crumbs for a lighter and crispier coating.

- Substitute the zucchini with yellow squash or eggplant for a different twist.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the zucchini rounds and coat them with the bread crumb mixture ahead of time. Store them in the refrigerator until ready to bake.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the Zucchini Parmesan Crisps on a platter with a sprinkle of fresh herbs for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Zucchini Parmesan Crisps pair well with a variety of dishes, such as grilled chicken, pasta, or a fresh salad.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover Zucchini Parmesan Crisps in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F for a few minutes until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Zucchini Parmesan Crisps contains approximately 120 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Zucchini Parmesan Crisps contains approximately 10 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Zucchini Parmesan Crisps contains approximately 6 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Zucchini Parmesan Crisps contains approximately 4 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Zucchini is a great source of vitamins C and K, as well as minerals like potassium and manganese.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (parmesan cheese) and wheat (bread crumbs), which may be allergens for some individuals.

Summary

Zucchini Parmesan Crisps are a delicious and nutritious snack that is relatively low in calories and carbohydrates. They are a great way to enjoy the flavors of zucchini in a crispy and satisfying way.

Summary

Zucchini Parmesan Crisps are a delicious and crispy snack or side dish that is easy to make and full of flavor. With a simple combination of zucchini, parmesan cheese, and bread crumbs, these crispy rounds are sure to be a hit with your family and friends. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

I can still recall the sense of amazement I felt when I first saw this recipe for Zucchini Parmesan Crisps. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Maria in her charming little cottage by the sea. Maria was known for her amazing cooking skills, and she always had a new recipe up her sleeve to share with me.

As we sat in her cozy kitchen sipping on homemade lemonade, Maria pulled out a vibrant green zucchini from her garden and began to slice it into thin rounds. She then dipped the zucchini slices in a mixture of breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and herbs, before popping them into the oven to bake until crisp and golden brown.

The aroma that filled the kitchen as the crisps baked was absolutely mouthwatering, and I couldn't wait to try them. When Maria finally pulled the tray out of the oven, the crisps were perfectly crispy and golden, with the cheese melted and bubbling on top. I took a bite and was instantly hooked by the delicious combination of flavors and textures.

Maria chuckled at my enthusiastic reaction and told me that the recipe was one that she had learned from her own grandmother many years ago. She explained that her grandmother had always been passionate about cooking and had passed down her love for food and recipes to Maria.

I asked Maria if she would be willing to share the recipe with me, and she happily obliged. She handed me a weathered old recipe card with faded ink that detailed the steps for making the Zucchini Parmesan Crisps. I thanked her profusely and tucked the card into my apron pocket, knowing that this recipe would become a cherished addition to my own collection.

When I returned home, I wasted no time in gathering the ingredients to make the Zucchini Parmesan Crisps. I followed the recipe to a tee, carefully slicing the zucchini, coating it in the breadcrumb mixture, and watching as the crisps baked to perfection in the oven.

As I sat down to enjoy the crisps with a glass of chilled white wine, I couldn't help but think back to that sunny day in Maria's kitchen and the joy of discovering a new recipe that would soon become a favorite in my own repertoire.

Over the years, I have made the Zucchini Parmesan Crisps countless times for family gatherings, dinner parties, and lazy Sunday afternoons at home. Each time, they are met with rave reviews and requests for the recipe, which I am always happy to share.

I like to think of this recipe as a symbol of the connections we form through food. From Maria's grandmother to Maria, and now to me, this recipe has passed through generations, bringing joy and deliciousness to all who taste it.

As I sit here now, writing this story and reminiscing about the first time I made the Zucchini Parmesan Crisps, I am filled with gratitude for the wonderful friendships and memories that food has brought into my life. And I can only hope that one day, perhaps I will pass this recipe down to a loved one of my own, continuing the delicious tradition for years to come.