Zucchini Parmesan Crisps

Name: Zucchini Parmesan Crisps
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese; ½ cup shredded zucchini

Published: July 8, 2025

by Olivia

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: This recipe takes just 35 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy days.
Healthy Snack Option: With minimal ingredients and baked instead of fried, these crisps are a guilt-free treat.
Versatile Use: Enjoy them on their own, as a salad topper, or paired with your favorite dips.
Gourmet Flavor: The combination of crispy zucchini and rich Parmesan offers a unique taste experience.
Kid-Friendly: These zucchini chips can be a fun way to get kids to enjoy vegetables while snacking.

Tools and Preparation

To make Zucchini Parmesan Crisps successfully, you’ll need some essential tools in your kitchen. Proper preparation will ensure that you achieve the best results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Baking sheet
Parchment paper
Mixing bowl
Paper towels or clean kitchen towels
Grater

Importance of Each Tool

Baking sheet: Provides an even surface for baking the crisps, ensuring they cook uniformly.
Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easy after baking.
Mixing bowl: Allows for easy mixing of ingredients without mess.
Grater: Essential for shredding both the zucchini and Parmesan cheese to achieve the right texture.

Ingredients

For the Zucchini Parmesan Crisps

1 cup shredded parmesan cheese (use the real stuff!)
½ cup shredded zucchini

How to Make Zucchini Parmesan Crisps

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This step is crucial as it helps create that perfect crispy texture.

Step 2: Prepare the Zucchini

To remove excess moisture from the shredded zucchini:
1. Lay down a few pieces of paper towel on a cutting board.
2. Place the shredded zucchini on top of them.
3. Cover it with more paper towel and press down firmly using your hands to squeeze out liquid. You can also use clean kitchen towels if preferred.

Step 3: Mix Ingredients

Transfer the squeezed dry zucchini into a medium mixing bowl. Add in the shredded parmesan cheese and mix thoroughly using your fingers until well combined.

Step 4: Shape Crisps on Baking Sheet

Spoon heaping tablespoons of the mixture onto your prepared baking sheet. Arrange them in five rows of three to ensure even cooking.

Step 5: Flatten Mixture

Gently flatten each pile until they are evenly distributed. This will help them cook uniformly.

Step 6: Bake

Place in the oven and bake for 8-10 minutes. Keep an eye on them; they should be sizzling with melted cheese and starting to brown at the edges. Avoid burning them!

Step 7: Cool Down

Once baked, let the chips rest on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before serving. This cooling time helps them crisp up further!

Enjoy your homemade Zucchini Parmesan Crisps as a delicious snack or healthy appetizer!

How to Serve Zucchini Parmesan Crisps

Zucchini Parmesan Crisps are not just a delicious snack; they can also elevate your meals! Here are some creative serving suggestions to enjoy these crunchy delights.

As a Salad Topper

Add a few Zucchini Parmesan Crisps to your favorite salad for a delightful crunch and extra flavor.

With Dips

Serve them alongside hummus, salsa, or guacamole for a tasty dipping experience that complements the savory cheese.

As Soup Accompaniments

Use the crisps to add texture to soups like tomato bisque or vegetable chowder; they make a perfect garnish.

For Charcuterie Boards

Include Zucchini Parmesan Crisps on your charcuterie board as an alternative to crackers for a unique twist.

As a Standalone Snack

Enjoy them straight out of the oven as a satisfying snack that is both crispy and savory.

How to Perfect Zucchini Parmesan Crisps

Achieving the perfect Zucchini Parmesan Crisps requires attention to detail. Follow these tips for optimal results.

Choose Fresh Zucchini: Select firm and fresh zucchini for the best flavor and texture in your crisps.
Remove Excess Moisture: Squeeze out as much liquid from the zucchini as possible. This helps achieve maximum crispiness.
Use Quality Cheese: Opt for high-quality shredded parmesan cheese for richer flavor and better melting properties.
Space Them Out: Ensure the crisps are evenly spaced on the baking sheet. This prevents them from sticking together during baking.
Keep an Eye on Baking Time: Monitor closely while baking to prevent burning; each oven may vary slightly in temperature.
Let Them Cool: Allow the crisps to cool on the baking sheet after baking. This helps them firm up even more.

Best Side Dishes for Zucchini Parmesan Crisps

Pairing side dishes with Zucchini Parmesan Crisps can enhance your meal experience. Here are some great options:

Mixed Greens Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cucumber, and vinaigrette balances the richness of the crisps.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned roasted veggies add color and nutrition, creating a vibrant plate.
Quinoa Pilaf: A nutty quinoa pilaf with herbs complements the cheese flavors of the crisps beautifully.
Garlic Bread: Warm garlic bread pairs perfectly as a comforting side alongside these crispy snacks.
Stuffed Peppers: Flavorful stuffed peppers provide heartiness while contrasting nicely with the lightness of the crisps.
Tomato Soup: A classic pairing, tomato soup enhances the overall experience with its comforting warmth and acidity.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can elevate your Zucchini Parmesan Crisps from good to great. Here are some pitfalls to watch for:

Not squeezing the zucchini enough: Failing to remove excess moisture from the zucchini can lead to soggy crisps. Always press it dry with paper towels or a clean kitchen towel.
Using pre-grated cheese: Pre-grated Parmesan contains anti-caking agents that can affect the texture of your crisps. Use freshly shredded cheese for the best results.
Overcrowding the baking sheet: Placing too many mounds of zucchini mixture on the baking sheet can cause them to stick together. Space them out for even cooking and crispiness.
Ignoring oven temperature: Baking at too high or too low of a temperature may burn or undercook your crisps. Stick to 375°F for optimal results.
Not letting them cool: Allowing the crisps to rest on the baking sheet is essential for achieving maximum crunch. Be patient for those few minutes!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container in the fridge.
Best consumed within 3 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Zucchini Parmesan Crisps

Place cooled crisps in a freezer-safe bag.
Freeze for up to 2 months, but note that texture may change upon thawing.

Reheating Zucchini Parmesan Crisps

Oven: Preheat to 350°F and bake for about 5-7 minutes until crispy again.
Microwave: Heat on a microwave-safe plate for about 20-30 seconds; they may lose some crispness.
Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes, flipping occasionally until warm and crispy.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making Zucchini Parmesan Crisps, we’ve got answers!

How do I make Zucchini Parmesan Crisps crispier?

To achieve maximum crispiness, ensure you thoroughly squeeze out all moisture from the zucchini before mixing it with cheese.

Can I use other types of cheese?

Yes! While Parmesan is traditional, feel free to experiment with other hard cheeses like Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano for different flavors.

What can I serve with Zucchini Parmesan Crisps?

These crisps pair excellently with dips like marinara sauce, hummus, or even guacamole. They also add great texture when sprinkled over salads.

Are Zucchini Parmesan Crisps healthy?

Absolutely! They are low in carbs and calories while providing a satisfying crunch without unhealthy fats typically found in fried snacks.

Can I make these vegan?

Yes! Substitute dairy cheese with plant-based alternatives made from cashews or nutritional yeast mixed with a gelling agent like agar-agar.

Final Thoughts

Zucchini Parmesan Crisps are a delightful and versatile snack that blends flavor and health. Their crunchy texture makes them perfect as an appetizer or snack anytime. Feel free to customize them by adding spices or herbs of your choice!

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