Zucchini Parmesan(Can Substitute Eggplant For Zucchini)
Zucchini Parmesan offers a crispy, cheesy twist on classic baked zucchini, featuring tender slices coated in bread crumbs and topped with melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. Perfect as a side dish or vegetarian main, it's quick to prepare and packed with savory flavors that appeal to all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- On wax paper, combine bread crumbs with oregano.
- Cut zucchini lengthwise into halves or quarters.
- Brush zucchini with mayonnaise and coat with breadcrumb mixture.
- Arrange zucchini in a 2 1/2-quart casserole dish, crumb side up.
- Cover and cook on High for 12 to 15 minutes, rotating halfway through, until tender.
- In a small bowl, heat spaghetti sauce on High for 1 to 3 minutes until hot.
- Sprinkle 1 1/2 cups of mozzarella cheese over cooked zucchini.
- Spoon hot spaghetti sauce over the cheese and zucchini.
- Top with remaining mozzarella cheese and Parmesan cheese.
- Cook on High for an additional 2 to 4 minutes until cheese melts.
Tips & Substitutions
For a crispier texture, you can bake the zucchini at 400°F instead of using a microwave. If you're out of mayonnaise, Greek yogurt works as a great substitute, adding creaminess and tang. Feel free to experiment with different herbs like basil or thyme for additional flavor. Using eggplant instead of zucchini is a delicious alternative that adds a unique taste and texture to the dish.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Zucchini Parmesan with a side of garlic bread or a fresh salad to complete the meal. It pairs beautifully with Fresh Tomato-Basil Sauce for added flavor. For a heartier meal, consider serving it alongside Italian Meat Loaf or with a side of polenta for a comforting touch. This dish is perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes until heated through. This dish can also be frozen; just make sure to separate layers with parchment paper before sealing in an airtight container.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Zucchini Parmesan(Can Substitute Eggplant For Zucchini) contains roughly 667 calories, with 25g protein, 126g carbohydrates, and 16g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (222% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (166% of the Daily Value), and calcium (140% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 793mg per serving (34% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen zucchini for this recipe?
While fresh zucchini is recommended for the best texture and flavor, you can use frozen zucchini if needed. Just be sure to thaw and drain excess moisture before proceeding with the recipe to avoid a watery dish.
How can I make this dish vegan?
To make a vegan version, substitute the mayonnaise with a vegan mayo and use dairy-free mozzarella cheese. You can also replace the Parmesan cheese with a nutritional yeast mixture or a store-bought vegan alternative for that cheesy flavor.
What can I serve with Zucchini Parmesan?
This dish goes well with a variety of sides. Consider pairing it with a simple green salad, garlic bread, or a light pasta dish. For a complete meal, you might also serve it with a side of Italian Cheese Sticks or a refreshing caprese salad.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).