Crispy Zucchini Parmesan Coins
Highlighted under: Balanced Food
I absolutely love making these Crispy Zucchini Parmesan Coins! There's something incredibly satisfying about transforming fresh zucchini into crunchy, cheesy bites that are perfect as a snack or appetizer. The combination of the crispy coating and the savory cheese makes each bite utterly irresistible. Plus, they come together quickly, making them a go-to recipe for when I need something delicious in a hurry. These coins are a delightful way to enjoy vegetables in a fun and flavorful way!
As I experimented with different ways to enjoy zucchini, I stumbled upon the idea of making coins. I realized that a simple breading of breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese could take little rounds of zucchini to a whole new level. Each coin holds its shape, with a satisfying crunch that keeps you coming back for more!
What works beautifully here is the combination of baking and broiling. Initially, I bake the coins to cook them through and then switch to broiling for that golden, crispy finish. This method prevents the zucchini from becoming too watery while ensuring every bite is deliciously crunchy.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- An irresistible crunch that satisfies any snack craving
- Cheesy flavor complemented by fresh herbs
- Quick to prepare for unexpected guests or movie nights
Mastering the Perfect Coat
The key to achieving a perfectly crispy texture on your zucchini coins lies in the coating technique. When you dip the zucchini in the beaten eggs, make sure to let any excess egg wash drip off before proceeding to the breadcrumb mixture. This helps the breadcrumbs stick well, ensuring an even coating that crisps up beautifully during baking. Use panko breadcrumbs for an extra crunch if you have them on hand, or a mixture of regular breadcrumbs and panko for texture variation.
Not all breadcrumbs are created equal. If you enjoy a nutty flavor, consider substituting half of the Parmesan cheese with ground almonds or almond flour. This not only enhances the flavor profile but also adds a unique crunch. Ensure the mixture remains well seasoned; taste it before coating the zucchini to get the right balance of flavors that will elevate each bite.
Baking to Perfection
When baking, arrangement on the baking sheet is crucial for evenly cooked coins. Space them at least an inch apart to allow hot air to circulate. This helps achieve that desirable golden brown color while preventing sogginess. I like to give them a light spray of cooking spray just before they go in the oven, which can help enhance browning and crispiness across the surface without adding too much oil.
If you find that your coins are starting to brown unevenly, simply rotate the baking sheet halfway through the baking time. This step ensures that they cook evenly, taking full advantage of your oven's heat distribution. Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes to catch that perfect shade of golden brown, as it can happen quickly under a broiler.
Ingredients
Crispy Zucchini Parmesan Coins
- 2 medium zucchini, sliced into 1/4 inch rounds
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- Cooking spray or olive oil for drizzling
Enjoy your delicious coins!
Instructions
Prepare the Baking Sheet
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Mix the Coating
In a shallow dish, combine breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
Dip the Zucchini Coins
Dip each zucchini round into the beaten eggs, letting the excess drip off, then coat in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing lightly to adhere.
Bake the Coins
Arrange the coated zucchini coins on the prepared baking sheet. Lightly spray or drizzle with olive oil and bake for 15 minutes.
Broil for Crispiness
After baking, switch the oven to broil and cook for an additional 5 minutes, or until the coins are golden brown.
Serve
Let the coins cool slightly before serving. Enjoy them warm with your favorite dipping sauce!
Get ready to dip!
Pro Tips
- For an added punch of flavor, consider adding some cayenne pepper or paprika to the breadcrumb mixture. This will give your coins a nice kick!
Serving Suggestions
These Crispy Zucchini Parmesan Coins can be a fantastic addition to any appetizer spread. For a fun twist, serve them alongside a garlic aioli or a zesty marinara sauce for dipping. The rich and savory notes of the cheese will complement the tangy flavors of the sauces beautifully, creating an addictive snacking experience that keeps guests coming back for more.
For a heartier dish, consider layering the coins with fresh mozzarella and basil on a toasted baguette to create a mini zucchini bruschetta. This offers a fresh, savory twist that transforms the appetizer into a delightful appetizer that can be the star of your gathering.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
If you’re planning ahead, you can prepare the zucchini coins in advance. After coating the coins, lay them on a baking sheet and place them in the freezer until solid. Once frozen, transfer them into a zip-top bag and store for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to bake, just pop them into the oven straight from the freezer, adding an extra 5 minutes to the cook time.
Storing leftovers can be tricky since the coins are best enjoyed fresh. However, if you must store them, place cooled coins in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, use an air fryer or a preheated oven to regain their crispiness, avoiding the microwave which tends to make them soggy.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use a different cheese?
Absolutely! Mozzarella or an Italian blend would work well. Just be sure to adjust the amount according to your taste.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover coins in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven for the best texture.
→ Can I freeze these coins?
Yes, you can freeze them before baking. Just place the coated coins on a baking sheet, freeze until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
→ What can I serve these coins with?
These coins pair well with marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or a spicy aioli for dipping!
Crispy Zucchini Parmesan Coins
I absolutely love making these Crispy Zucchini Parmesan Coins! There's something incredibly satisfying about transforming fresh zucchini into crunchy, cheesy bites that are perfect as a snack or appetizer. The combination of the crispy coating and the savory cheese makes each bite utterly irresistible. Plus, they come together quickly, making them a go-to recipe for when I need something delicious in a hurry. These coins are a delightful way to enjoy vegetables in a fun and flavorful way!
Created by: Dahlia Kensington
Recipe Type: Balanced Food
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Crispy Zucchini Parmesan Coins
- 2 medium zucchini, sliced into 1/4 inch rounds
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- Cooking spray or olive oil for drizzling
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
In a shallow dish, combine breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
Dip each zucchini round into the beaten eggs, letting the excess drip off, then coat in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing lightly to adhere.
Arrange the coated zucchini coins on the prepared baking sheet. Lightly spray or drizzle with olive oil and bake for 15 minutes.
After baking, switch the oven to broil and cook for an additional 5 minutes, or until the coins are golden brown.
Let the coins cool slightly before serving. Enjoy them warm with your favorite dipping sauce!
Extra Tips
- For an added punch of flavor, consider adding some cayenne pepper or paprika to the breadcrumb mixture. This will give your coins a nice kick!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 240 kcal
- Total Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
- Sodium: 250mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 28g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 8g