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Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: These are the stars of the dish! If zucchini isn’t available, you can also use summer squash or even eggplant. Keep the sizes similar for even cooking.
Cherry Tomatoes: I love using a mix of different colors for a vibrant look. If you’re short on cherry tomatoes, any chopped tomatoes can work. Just adjust cooking time based on size.
Parmesan Cheese: This cheese adds a wonderful salty flavor. If you want a dairy-free option, consider nutritional yeast for a cheesy taste, or try vegan cheese alternatives.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil is best for flavor. If you’re out, avocado oil or melted coconut oil can be good substitutes too, each adds a unique twist.
Herbs: I love the combination of oregano and basil. If fresh herbs are on hand, use them instead! They’ll enhance the flavor even more. You can also swap with Italian seasoning or herbes de Provence.
How Do I Ensure Even Roasting?
To get that perfect roasted texture, spacing the zucchini and tomatoes properly is essential. Here’s how to do it:
- Preheat the oven before you start. A hot oven helps with caramelization.
- When spreading out the veggies, keep them in a single layer. Overcrowding causes steaming instead of roasting.
- Stir halfway through cooking. This ensures all sides get that lovely golden color and the flavors mix well.
Enjoy the process! And remember, each oven can be a little different, so keep an eye on the veggies in the last few minutes!
How to Make Roasted Parmesan Zucchini and Tomatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Vegetables:
- 4 medium zucchinis, cut into thick slices or spears
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved (variety of colors preferred)
For the Seasoning:
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Topping:
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 25 minutes to roast in the oven. So, in total, you’ll need about 35 minutes to have this healthy, flavorful meal on your table!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
First, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it’s heating up, line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. This will help with easy cleanup and prevent sticking.
2. Combine the Vegetables:
In a large mixing bowl, toss together the thick zucchini slices and halved cherry tomatoes. Make sure they are mixed well for even roasting!
3. Season the Veggies:
Drizzle the olive oil over your veggies, then sprinkle the garlic powder, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Give everything a nice toss to coat the vegetables evenly with the seasoning.
4. Arrange for Roasting:
Spread the seasoned zucchini and tomatoes out in a single layer on your prepared baking sheet. Make sure not to overcrowd them for even cooking!
5. Add the Parmesan:
Now, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top of the veggies. This will add a delicious cheesy flavor to your roasted dish!
6. Roast in the Oven:
Pop the baking sheet into your preheated oven and roast for about 20-25 minutes. Stir the vegetables halfway through to ensure they cook evenly. You’re looking for the zucchinis to be tender and the tomatoes to be slightly caramelized.
7. Cool and Garnish:
Once they are done roasting, take them out of the oven and let them cool slightly. Before serving, sprinkle some fresh chopped parsley on top for added flavor and a nice pop of color!
8. Enjoy!
Your Roasted Parmesan Zucchini and Tomatoes are ready to be served! Enjoy this colorful dish as a side or light main course. Yum!
Can I Use Other Vegetables in This Recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to swap the zucchini or add other veggies like bell peppers, asparagus, or eggplant. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time based on the vegetables you choose, as some may take longer or shorter to roast than zucchini.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prep the veggies and toss them with the seasonings in advance. Cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before roasting. However, it’s best to add the Parmesan cheese just before baking to keep it fresh and crispy!
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for the best texture, or you can use the microwave for a quick option, but be aware that it may soften the veggies a bit.
What Can I Substitute for Parmesan Cheese?
If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try using nutritional yeast, which offers a cheesy flavor without the dairy. Alternatively, aged Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano can be used as substitutes for a similar taste profile.
