If you are looking for a healthy and delicious snack that is easy to make, then Parmesan Baked Zucchini Chips are the perfect choice. These crispy and flavorful chips are a great alternative to traditional potato chips and are packed with nutrients.
The recipe for Parmesan Baked Zucchini Chips is simple and requires only a few ingredients. You will need fresh zucchini, grated Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, and a blend of dried herbs and spices. The zucchini slices are coated with a mixture of grated Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, and seasonings, then baked in the oven until golden and crispy. The end result is a batch of crunchy and cheesy zucchini chips that will satisfy your cravings without the guilt.
Not only are Parmesan Baked Zucchini Chips delicious, but they are also a healthy snack option. Zucchini is low in calories and high in fiber, making it a satisfying and filling snack. It is also rich in vitamins A and C, as well as potassium and magnesium. The addition of Parmesan cheese adds a boost of calcium and protein to the chips. This combination of nutrients makes Parmesan Baked Zucchini Chips not only a tasty treat, but also a nutritious snack that you can enjoy guilt-free.
Step 1: Preparing the Zucchini
- Wash the zucchini: Start by rinsing the zucchini under cool running water to remove any dirt or impurities. Using a brush can be helpful to scrub away any stubborn dirt. Pat dry the zucchini with a clean towel.
- Trim the ends: Using a sharp knife, carefully trim both ends of the zucchini. This step helps to create uniform slices and removes any tough or damaged parts of the vegetable.
- Slice the zucchini: Using a mandolin or a sharp knife, slice the zucchini into thin, even rounds. Aim for slices that are about 1/8 inch thick, as thinner slices will crisp up better during baking.
- Remove excess moisture: Zucchini contains a lot of water, which can prevent the chips from getting crispy. To remove excess moisture, lightly sprinkle salt over the sliced zucchini and let them sit for about 10 minutes. Afterward, pat the slices dry with a paper towel or clean kitchen towel.
Following these steps will help ensure that the zucchini chips bake evenly and turn out crispy. Now that the zucchini is prepared, we can move on to the next step.
Step 2: Coating the Zucchini
To create the coating mixture, combine breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, dried herbs like oregano or basil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Mix these ingredients well to ensure that the flavors are evenly distributed throughout the coating.
Once the coating mixture is ready, take a zucchini slice and dip it into beaten eggs, ensuring that both sides are coated. The egg acts as an adhesive, helping the coating to stick to the zucchini. After dipping the zucchini slice in eggs, transfer it to the bowl containing the coating mixture.
| Ingredients for Coating: |
|---|
| Breadcrumbs |
| Grated Parmesan cheese |
| Dried herbs (e.g., oregano, basil) |
| Garlic powder |
| Salt and pepper |
To coat the zucchini slice with the mixture, press it into the coating mixture on both sides, ensuring that the entire surface is evenly covered. You can gently press the coating onto the zucchini to make it adhere better. Repeat this process with all the zucchini slices until they are all coated with the breadcrumb mixture.
Once the zucchini slices are fully coated, arrange them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Make sure to leave some space between the slices to ensure even cooking. The coated zucchini slices are now ready to be baked in the oven, resulting in crispy, flavorful Parmesan Baked Zucchini Chips.
Step 3: Baking the Chips
To start, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent the chips from sticking. Arrange the coated zucchini slices in a single layer on the baking sheet, making sure they are not overlapping. This will allow them to cook evenly and become crispy.
| Baking the Chips | |
|---|---|
| Temperature: | 425°F (220°C) |
| Time: | 15-20 minutes |
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the chips for 15 to 20 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Keep a close eye on the chips towards the end of the baking time to prevent them from burning. The exact baking time may vary depending on the thickness of the zucchini slices and the oven’s temperature accuracy.
Once the chips are baked to your desired level of crispiness, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. They can be enjoyed as a standalone snack or as a tasty side dish. The Parmesan baked zucchini chips are best served fresh and warm, so try to enjoy them immediately after baking.
Step 4: Serving and Enjoying
- Transfer the zucchini chips to a serving plate or platter. Arrange them in a single layer to ensure they stay crispy.
- Sprinkle some additional grated Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs, such as basil or parsley, on top of the chips for extra flavor and visual appeal.
- Prepare a dipping sauce to accompany the zucchini chips. A classic marinara sauce or garlic aioli are great options. Serve the sauce in a small bowl or ramekin alongside the chips.
- Enjoy the Parmesan baked zucchini chips while they are still warm and crispy. The combination of the crunchy texture and savory flavors is incredibly satisfying.
- If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. However, they are best enjoyed immediately after baking.
Whether you serve these zucchini chips as a healthy snack, a side dish, or an appetizer, they are sure to be a crowd-pleaser. The crispy texture and cheesy flavor make them a hit with both kids and adults. Don’t be surprised if they disappear quickly!
