Cheesy Zucchini Rounds

Equipment

• Sharp knife
• Cutting board
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring spoons
• Cheese grater (if using fresh cheese)

Ingredients

• 2 medium zucchini
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
• Optional: red pepper flakes for extra heat

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Oven

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) .
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray.
3. A hot oven helps the zucchini cook quickly while allowing the cheese to become golden and bubbly.

Step 2: Slice the Zucchini

1. Wash the zucchini thoroughly.
2. Trim off both ends.
3. Slice into rounds approximately ¼-inch thick .
4. Try to keep each slice the same thickness so they cook evenly.

Step 3: Season the Zucchini

1. Place the zucchini rounds into a large mixing bowl.
2. Drizzle with olive oil.
3. Add:
4. Garlic powder
5. Onion powder
6. Italian seasoning
7. Paprika
8. Salt
9. Black pepper
10. Gently toss until every slice is evenly coated.

Step 4: Arrange on Baking Sheet

1. Place the seasoned zucchini slices in a single layer.
2. Leave a little space between each round.
3. Avoid stacking them.
4. This helps the zucchini roast instead of steam.

Step 5: Add Cheese

1. Sprinkle each zucchini slice generously with mozzarella cheese.
2. Top with grated Parmesan.
3. If desired, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.

Step 6: Bake

1. Bake for 12–15 minutes until:
2. The zucchini becomes tender.
3. The cheese melts completely.
4. The edges begin turning golden.

Step 7: Broil

1. Turn the oven to broil.
2. Broil for 2–3 minutes .
3. Watch carefully so the cheese becomes bubbly and lightly browned without burning.

Step 8: Garnish

1. Remove from the oven.
2. Allow the zucchini rounds to cool for 2 minutes.
3. Sprinkle with fresh parsley.
4. Serve immediately while hot and cheesy.

Nutrition

Calories: 165 · Protein: 11 g · Fat: 11 g · Carbohydrates: 6 g · Saturated Fat: 5 g · Fiber: 2 g · Sugar: 4 g · Sodium: 430 mg