Zucchini Parmesan Crisps

Name: Zucchini Parmesan Crisps
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese; ½ cup shredded zucchini

Published: June 28, 2025

by Dian

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick Preparation: With only 20 minutes of prep time, you can whip up these delicious crisps in no time.
Health-Conscious Snack: Low in calories and high in flavor, these crisps make for a nutritious alternative to traditional snacks.
Versatile Use: Enjoy them on their own, as a topping for salads, or alongside your favorite soups.
Simple Ingredients: Made with only two main ingredients, this recipe is straightforward and accessible.
Crispy Texture: Baking the mixture creates a crunchy exterior that’s sure to satisfy your cravings.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes preparing Zucchini Parmesan Crisps even easier. Here are some essentials you’ll need to get started.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Baking sheet
Parchment paper
Medium mixing bowl
Paper towels or clean kitchen towels

Importance of Each Tool

Baking sheet: Provides a flat surface for even baking while allowing air circulation around the crisps.
Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier.
Medium mixing bowl: Ensures enough space to mix the zucchini and cheese without spills.
Paper towels or clean kitchen towels: Essential for squeezing out excess moisture from the zucchini for better crispiness.

Ingredients

To create your Zucchini Parmesan Crisps, you’ll need the following:

For the 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.

Step 2: Prepare the Zucchini

Press the liquid from the shredded zucchini by laying down a few pieces of paper towel on a cutting board. Place the shredded zucchini on top of it, cover with more paper towel, and press down firmly with your hands to squeeze out the moisture. You could also use clean kitchen towels for this!

Step 3: Mix Ingredients

Transfer the squeezed dry zucchini to a medium mixing bowl. Add the shredded parmesan cheese. Combine them well by mixing with your fingers until evenly distributed.

Step 4: Form the Crisps

Spoon heaping tablespoons of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet. Arrange them so there are five rows of three.

Step 5: Shape Evenly

Gently flatten each mound until they form even discs.

Step 6: Bake

Bake in preheated oven for 8-10 minutes. Watch closely until they are sizzling, nearly melted, and starting to brown at the edges. Be careful not to burn them!

Step 7: Cool Down

Allow the chips to rest on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before enjoying your delicious Zucchini Parmesan Crisps!

How to Serve Zucchini Parmesan Crisps

Zucchini Parmesan Crisps make an excellent addition to various meals or can be enjoyed on their own as a snack. Here are some creative ways to serve these tasty treats.

With Dips

Marinara Sauce: Serve with a side of warm marinara sauce for a classic Italian touch.
Garlic Aioli: A creamy garlic aioli pairs perfectly for an extra flavor kick.
Avocado Dip: Blend ripe avocados with lime juice for a fresh, zesty dip.

As a Salad Topping

Mixed Greens: Add Zucchini Parmesan Crisps on top of mixed greens for a delightful crunch.
Caesar Salad: Use them instead of croutons in Caesar salads for a cheesy twist.

On Charcuterie Boards

Cheese Selection: Include them on a cheese board along with assorted cheeses and olives.
Veggie Platter: Pair with fresh veggies and hummus for a colorful spread.

How to Perfect Zucchini Parmesan Crisps

Creating the ultimate Zucchini Parmesan Crisps is easy with these helpful tips. Pay attention to each detail to enhance your results.

Use Fresh Zucchini: Fresh zucchini yields better flavor and texture. Look for firm, shiny zucchinis.
Squeeze Out Liquid Thoroughly: Removing excess moisture is crucial for crispy chips. Don’t skip this step!
Uniform Size: Shredding zucchini evenly ensures all crisps bake at the same rate, avoiding burnt edges.
Watch the Baking Time: Keep an eye on your crisps while baking. They can burn quickly towards the end.
Let Them Cool on the Sheet: Allowing the chips to cool on the baking sheet helps them firm up even more.

Best Side Dishes for Zucchini Parmesan Crisps

These side dishes complement Zucchini Parmesan Crisps perfectly, enhancing your meal experience. Consider adding one or more of these options to your plate.

Fresh Garden Salad: A light salad with vinaigrette balances the richness of the crisps.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned roasted vegetables provide hearty flavors alongside these crispy snacks.
Quinoa Pilaf: Nutty quinoa pilaf adds protein and texture, making it a filling side.
Tomato Soup: Classic tomato soup pairs beautifully with the crunch of the crisps, ideal for dipping.
Grilled Chicken Skewers: Juicy grilled chicken complements the cheese flavor in the crisps wonderfully.
Stuffed Bell Peppers: Colorful stuffed bell peppers add variety and nutrition to your meal ensemble.
Garlic Breadsticks: Soft garlic breadsticks provide another chewy texture that contrasts nicely with the crisps.
Couscous Salad: A refreshing couscous salad with herbs and lemon brings brightness to your dining experience.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Zucchini Parmesan Crisps, it’s easy to make a few common errors that can affect the final result. Here are some mistakes to watch for:

Not drying the zucchini properly: Excess moisture can lead to soggy crisps. Make sure to press out as much liquid as possible before mixing with cheese.
Using pre-packaged shredded cheese: Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect melting. Always opt for fresh shredded Parmesan for the best results.
Overcrowding the baking sheet: Placing too many mounds on the baking sheet can prevent even cooking. Spread them out with space in between for proper airflow.
Ignoring oven temperature: Each oven can vary slightly in temperature. Keep an eye on the crisps to prevent burning—especially towards the end of the baking time.
Skipping the resting period: Allowing the crisps to rest after baking helps them firm up. Don’t skip this step for optimal crunchiness!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container.
Consume within 3 days for best freshness.

Freezing Zucchini Parmesan Crisps

Place cooled crisps in a single layer between parchment paper in a freezer-safe container.
Use within 1 month for best taste and texture.

Reheating Zucchini Parmesan Crisps

Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 5-7 minutes until crispy.
Microwave: Heat on a microwave-safe plate for about 30 seconds; however, this may reduce crispiness.
Stovetop: Heat in a dry skillet over low heat, flipping occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding Zucchini Parmesan Crisps that may help you while preparing this delicious snack.

Can I use other cheeses besides Parmesan for Zucchini Parmesan Crisps?

Yes, you can experiment with other hard cheeses like Pecorino Romano or Asiago if you prefer different flavors.

How do I make my Zucchini Parmesan Crisps spicier?

To add heat, incorporate red pepper flakes or your favorite spicy seasoning into the mixture before baking.

Are Zucchini Parmesan Crisps gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as it does not contain any flour or gluten products.

How thick should I shred my zucchini for Zucchini Parmesan Crisps?

Aim for a fine shred; this helps the zucchini mix well with cheese and ensures even cooking.

Final Thoughts

Zucchini Parmesan Crisps are not only tasty but also versatile. They make a fantastic snack or an added crunch to salads and soups. Feel free to customize them by adding herbs or spices of your choice to suit your palate!

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