Remove the zucchini slices from the oven.
Let them cool for about 2 to 3 minutes.
Sprinkle with fresh parsley or basil.
Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes:
Choose firm zucchini
For optimal texture, choose small to medium-sized zucchini that is firm to the touch and has smooth, flawless skin.
Very large zucchini may contain more seeds and water, which can make their flesh softer.
Don’t cut them too thin
Slices of about 1.25 cm are ideal.
Thin slices may become too soft, while very thick pieces may require additional cooking time.
Use freshly grated cheese
Freshly grated mozzarella and Parmesan cheese usually melt beautifully and offer excellent flavor.
Control humidity
Zucchini is naturally rich in water. If your zucchini seems particularly waterlogged, sprinkle the slices lightly with salt and let them rest for 5 to 10 minutes before patting them dry.
This can help remove excess moisture.
Don’t overcrowd the pan
Space each zucchini slice well. If they are too tight, steam builds up and the edges will not be golden brown.
Tips for perfect cheesy zucchini slices:
1. Pat the zucchini dry.
After washing, make sure the zucchini is well dried before seasoning.
Excess moisture on the surface can affect browning.
2. Don’t overuse the oil.
A small amount of olive oil is enough for the seasoning to adhere and promote browning.
Too much oil can make the finished patties greasy.
3. Mix the cheeses
Mozzarella provides a wonderful, melting, springy texture, while Parmesan adds a more pronounced salty flavor and helps form a golden crust.
4. Grill carefully
If you like cheese au gratin, grill the zucchini for a minute or two at the end.
Stay close to the oven and keep an eye on it constantly.
5. Serve immediately
These zucchini rounds are best served warm, fresh out of the oven, when the cheese is still melted and delicious.
Serving suggestions:
Cheesy zucchini rounds are incredibly versatile.
Serve them as follows:
A low-carb starter,
a snack for a party,
a side dish,
a light lunch,
a quick snack,
a vegetable side dish for dinner,
a garnish for salads,
a side dish for grilled meats.
They go especially well with grilled chicken, roast fish, steak, turkey burgers, or a fresh salad from the garden.
To dip them, try serving them with:
Marinara sauce,
ranch sauce,
garlic yogurt sauce,
tzatziki,
tomato salsa,
spicy mayonnaise.
Variations of the recipe:
zucchini slices with garlic and parmesan.
Increase the amount of garlic powder slightly and sprinkle with additional Parmesan cheese. Add fresh parsley after cooking.
Spicy zucchini with cheese
Add red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or a little chili powder to the seasoning mixture.
Italian zucchini slices
Use mozzarella, parmesan, oregano, basil, garlic, and Italian herbs.
Serve with a warm marinara sauce.
Rondelles de courgettes au cheddar
For a more pronounced cheesy taste, replace some of the mozzarella with sharp cheddar.
Mediterranean style
Top the baked zucchini with crumbled feta, fresh parsley, oregano and a drizzle of olive oil.
Extra crispy version
After adding the cheese, sprinkle a very small amount of seasoned breadcrumbs or Parmesan cheese on top before final baking.
Storage:
Let the remaining zucchini slices cool completely.
Place them in an airtight container and store them in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Keep in mind that zucchini softens after refrigeration, so it won’t have exactly the same texture as when it’s freshly cooked.
Reheating tips:
For the best texture, reheat the zucchini rounds in the oven or air fryer.
Oven
Place them on a baking sheet and heat them to 190°C (375°F) for about 5 to 8 minutes.
Air fryer
Cook in hot air at 190°C (375°F) for about 3 to 5 minutes.
Avoid microwaving zucchini as much as possible, as this can make it very soft and watery.
Can you freeze cheesy zucchini slices?
They can be frozen, but this is not the best way to obtain an optimal texture because zucchini contains a significant amount of water.
If you choose to freeze them, arrange the cooked patties in a single layer and freeze them until firm. Then transfer them to a container suitable for freezing.
Reheat directly from frozen in the oven or in an air fryer until hot.
The cheese should become au gratin again, although the zucchini may be softer than freshly made slices.
Nutritional information:
Approximate values per serving, for 4 servings. Actual nutritional values may vary depending on the size of the zucchini and cheese used.
Calories: about 190 kcal
Protein: 11 g
Carbohydrates: 8 g
Fiber: 2 g
Net carbs: about 6 g
Fat: 13 g
Saturated fatty acids: 6 g
Sugars: 5 g
Sodium: about 500 mg
Calcium: about 250 mg
Benefits of cheesy
zucchini slices: 1. Rich in vegetables
Zucchini is a nutrient-dense vegetable that provides beneficial vitamins, minerals, and plant compounds while providing relatively few calories.
2. Low in carbohydrates
Zucchini naturally contains relatively few carbs, making this recipe a convenient option for people looking for a low-carb side dish.
3. Provides protein
The mozzarella and Parmesan cheese provide protein, helping to make this dish more satisfying than just roasted zucchini.
