Zucchini al parmigiano | Baked ZUCCHINI PARMESAN
During the height of the growing season, there is nothing quite like a meal highlighting ingredients from your own garden, local farmers market, or favorite farm stand.
In the summer of 2023, we compiled four of our favorite simple summer dishes so you can enjoy them at your own table, either individually—offered as antipasti/primi (appetizers/first courses) or contorti (sides) to accompany the rest of your own menu—or serve all four together and you've got an entire beautiful summer harvest meal planned out for you.
These dishes can be prepared ahead and served at room temperature, which makes them especially enticing for summer picnics, pot lucks, and heat waves!
Zucchini Parmesan note: While zucchini al parmigiano is often served straight from the oven, it’s also very satisfying when served cold, if you have leftovers or if you want to make the dish ahead. Let the dish cool to room temperature before refrigerating; it will keep for up to 2-3 days.
Ingredients:
Serves 6 as a side dish
80 grams (approx. 3/4 cup) breadcrumbs
2 oil-packed anchovies
40 grams freshly-grated Parmigiano-Reggiano
1 garlic clove, green stem removed
4 sprigs of parsley, plus more leaves for serving
Pinch of dried oregano
Salt and freshly ground black pepper
4 medium-sized zucchini, trimmed
5 dried bay leaves
Extra-virgin olive oil, for drizzling
Instructions:
Preheat the oven to 190°C/375°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a food processor, combine the breadcrumbs, anchovies, parmesan, garlic, parsley, oregano, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Pulse until the garlic and parsley are finely chopped and the mixture is homogenous.
Use a mandolin or potato peeler to thinly slice the zucchini lengthwise into long strips. Arrange the zucchini on the baking sheet, add the bay leaves and the breadcrumb mixture, and toss to coat. Drizzle with olive oil.
Transfer the baking sheet to the oven and cook until the zucchini are golden-brown and the outside is slightly crispy, about 20 minutes. Rotate the pan halfway through cooking if it doesn't seem to be cooking evenly.
Remove and discard the bay leaves. Transfer the zucchini to a large plate and drizzle with additional olive oil. Sprinkle with the remaining parsley and serve.