Baked Zucchini Spears

Tender zucchini spears with crispy Parmesan edges, flavored with garlic, oregano, and olive oil. An easy side dish that pairs perfectly with chicken, fish, burgers, steak, spaghetti, or warm marinara for dipping.
Prep Time: 6 minutes
Cook Time: 19 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Servings: 4
Calories: 85 kcal per serving

Ingredients

• 2 medium zucchini, washed well

• 2 cloves garlic, peeled and minced

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 teaspoon dried oregano

• ½ teaspoon salt

• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

• ⅓ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (grate it from a block for best flavor and texture)
  

  Instructions

  1. Prep the Oven and Pan

  • Preheat your oven to 425°F.

  • Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

  2. Cut the Zucchini

  • Trim off the ends of each zucchini.

  • Cut each one in half crosswise, then cut each half into quarters lengthwise.
    You'll get 8 spears total (4 from each zucchini).

  • Try to keep them uniform in size so they cook evenly.

  3. Season the Spears

  • Arrange the spears on the prepared baking sheet.

  • In a small bowl, mix the minced garlic and olive oil together. Rub this mixture all over each spear, coating all sides.

  • Arrange the spears skin-side down on the pan (flat cut sides facing up).

  4. Add the Toppings

  • Sprinkle evenly with oregano, salt, pepper, and the grated Parmesan cheese.
    Distribute the cheese generously over the tops of all spears.

  5. Bake

  • Bake for 15 minutes, until the zucchini is tender when pierced with a fork.

  6. Broil for Crispiness

  • Switch the oven to broil.

  • Broil for 3 to 4 minutes, watching closely, until the Parmesan turns golden brown and slightly crisp.
    (Don't walk away – broilers can burn fast!)

  7. Serve

  • Serve warm, with warmed marinara sauce on the side for dipping if desired.

  ---

  Storage & Reheating Notes

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container or zip-top bag in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

  • Reheat in the oven or toaster oven to bring back some crispiness. The microwave will warm them but the zucchini will become softer.

  ---

  Pro Tips for Best Results

  Tip	Why It Helps
  Grate your own Parmesan	Pre-shredded cheese has anti-caking agents that prevent it from melting and browning as nicely.
  Don't overcrowd the pan	Give each spear a little space so the heat circulates and the edges get crispy.
  Pat zucchini dry	If your zucchini are very wet, pat them with a paper towel before seasoning – less moisture = crispier results.