Name: Festive Baked Parmesan Zucchini for Christmas Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 4 medium-sized zucchini, sliced into 1/4 inch rounds; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese (or Pecorino Romano for a different flavor); 1 cup breadcrumbs (use gluten-free breadcrumbs for gluten-free option); 3 tablespoons olive oil (or avocado oil as alternative); 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; Salt and pepper, to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped

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If you’re looking to add a delightful, crunchy, and cheesy side to your holiday table, this Festive Baked Parmesan Zucchini for Christmas is an absolute must-try. It combines tender zucchini rounds with a golden, crispy Parmesan and breadcrumb topping that’s bursting with herby, savory flavor. This dish brings a vibrant pop of green and a satisfying texture that makes it an effortless crowd-pleaser for Christmas dinners or any festive gathering. It’s simple, elegant, and guaranteed to become one of your seasonal favorites.

Festive Baked Parmesan Zucchini for Christmas Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

For this recipe, you won’t need a long shopping list—just a handful of essential, everyday ingredients that each play a crucial role in creating that irresistible taste and perfect texture. Together, they build layers of flavor and that stunning golden crunch.

Zucchini: Choose medium-sized zucchinis for perfect rounds that hold their shape and cook evenly.
Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan creates a savory, melty crust; Pecorino Romano works nicely as a sharper alternative.
Breadcrumbs: They add the all-important crispy texture; gluten-free versions work just as well.
Olive oil: Helps bind the topping and adds a rich, fruity note—avocado oil is a great substitute for a mild flavor.
Garlic powder: Infuses a warm, savory undertone without overpowering the dish.
Onion powder: Adds depth and a gentle sweetness to complement the garlic and cheese.
Dried oregano: Brings an herbal brightness that elevates the overall flavor profile.
Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings to balance and enhance every bite.
Fresh parsley: Optional, but perfect for a fresh, colorful garnish.

How to Make Festive Baked Parmesan Zucchini for Christmas

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by setting your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that the zucchini slices will bake evenly and develop that gorgeous toasted, golden crust we’re aiming for. Proper oven temperature is key to getting the perfect balance of tender zucchini under a crispy topping.

Step 2: Prepare the Zucchini

Grab four medium zucchini, rinse them well, and slice into rounds about 1/4 inch thick. This thickness is ideal because it allows the zucchini to cook through just right—soft but with a little bite left—without becoming mushy.

Step 3: Mix the Topping

In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, 1 cup of breadcrumbs, 3 tablespoons of olive oil, 1 teaspoon each of garlic powder, onion powder, and dried oregano, along with salt and pepper to taste. Stir everything together well until the oil has coated all the ingredients, creating a cohesive, flavorful topping that will crisp up beautifully in the oven.

Step 4: Assemble the Dish

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and neatly arrange your zucchini rounds in a single layer—try to give each slice enough space so they bake evenly. Generously sprinkle the breadcrumb and Parmesan mixture over the zucchini, ensuring each round is well covered for maximum crunch and cheesy goodness.

Step 5: Bake

Slide your baking sheet into the preheated oven and let everything bake for about 20 minutes. You’re looking for golden brown, crunchy topping and zucchini that’s tender but not soggy. This step is what turns simple zucchini into an unforgettable festive treat.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

When it’s time to take the dish out, let it cool for just a minute to let the topping set. Sprinkle fresh parsley over the top to add a lovely green contrast and a hint of brightness. Serve the Festive Baked Parmesan Zucchini for Christmas right away to enjoy its perfect texture — it’s best warm and fresh!

How to Serve Festive Baked Parmesan Zucchini for Christmas

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley is a classic way to add that pop of festive green and a fresh herbal lift. You can also try a light drizzle of lemon juice or a few shavings of extra Parmesan to amp up the flavor and presentation.

Side Dishes

This baked zucchini pairs beautifully with hearty mains like roast turkey, baked ham, or even a lentil loaf for a vegetarian holiday option. It also complements mashed potatoes, cranberry sauce, and fresh dinner rolls perfectly, making it a versatile side for any Christmas centerpiece.

Creative Ways to Present

For a truly festive feel, consider arranging the zucchini slices in a circular pattern on your serving platter, resembling a wreath. Add pomegranate seeds or halved cherry tomatoes around the edge for a splash of red, and your Festive Baked Parmesan Zucchini for Christmas will be both delicious and visually stunning.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled completely, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep fresh and tasty for up to 3 days, making this dish a great option for holiday meal prep or next-day enjoyment.

Freezing

While freezing baked zucchini can cause some textural changes, you can freeze leftovers if needed. Place the baked zucchini in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. Use within 1 month for best flavor.

Reheating

To reheat, place the zucchini on a baking sheet and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes. This helps bring back the crispiness of the Parmesan topping better than a microwave, which might make it soggy.

FAQs

Can I use yellow squash instead of zucchini?

Absolutely! Yellow squash works very similarly and adds a nice color contrast. Just slice it the same way and follow the recipe as usual.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

It can be! Simply swap out regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free ones to keep the delicious crunch without gluten.

What else can I add to the topping for more flavor?

Try adding a pinch of smoked paprika or some finely chopped fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to add more festive flavor notes.

Can I prepare the dish ahead of time before baking?

Yes, you can assemble the zucchini and topping on the baking sheet a few hours before baking. Just keep it covered in the fridge and bake when ready.

How do I get the topping extra crispy?

Make sure the zucchini slices aren’t overlapping and use a high-quality Parmesan. A quick broil for the last 1-2 minutes can also add extra crunch, but watch closely to avoid burning.

Final Thoughts

This Festive Baked Parmesan Zucchini for Christmas is one of those wonderful dishes that’s simple to make yet feels incredibly special on the holiday table. Its vibrant color, crispy topping, and comforting flavors make it a true crowd-pleaser. I hope you give this recipe a try and see just how effortlessly it adds warmth and festive cheer to your Christmas feast. Happy baking and happy holidays!

Festive Baked Parmesan Zucchini for Christmas Recipe

★★★★★

4.8 from 17 reviews

Author: Lana
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Festive Baked Parmesan Zucchini is a delightful and easy-to-make side dish perfect for your Christmas celebrations. Tender slices of zucchini are topped with a savory mixture of Parmesan cheese, seasoned breadcrumbs, and aromatic herbs, then baked to golden perfection. This recipe offers a crispy, flavorful twist on a healthy vegetable that pairs beautifully with holiday meals.

Ingredients

Scale

Vegetables

4 medium-sized zucchini, sliced into 1/4 inch rounds

Toppings

1 cup grated Parmesan cheese (or Pecorino Romano for a different flavor)
1 cup breadcrumbs (use gluten-free breadcrumbs for gluten-free option)
3 tablespoons olive oil (or avocado oil as alternative)
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper, to taste

Garnish (optional)

Fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure even baking and a golden brown finish on your zucchini.
Prepare the Zucchini: Wash and slice the zucchini into 1/4 inch thick rounds for uniform cooking and a pleasant texture.
Mix the Topping: In a mixing bowl, combine grated Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir well until the mixture is thoroughly coated with oil for a cohesive topping.
Assemble the Dish: Arrange the zucchini slices in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Generously sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture over each slice, ensuring even coverage.
Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes, or until the zucchini is tender and the topping turns a beautiful golden brown.
Garnish and Serve: Remove the zucchini from the oven, let cool slightly, then garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve immediately as a festive side dish.

Notes

For a gluten-free option, substitute breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs.
Swap Parmesan with Pecorino Romano for a sharper taste variation.
Use avocado oil instead of olive oil for a milder flavor and healthy fats.
To make the topping extra crispy, broil for an additional 1-2 minutes at the end of baking, watching carefully to prevent burning.
Fresh parsley adds a bright flavor and festive appearance but is optional.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Side Dish
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Italian-American