Description
If you’re anything like me, you’ve probably found yourself staring into the fridge, wondering how to whip up a delicious side that won’t take all evening. Enter Thinly Sliced Parmesan Squash! This dish is not only easy on the eyes but also a feast for the taste buds. It’s the perfect way to elevate a weeknight dinner or impress guests without breaking a sweat—phew!
Ingredients
Scale
Before we dive into the details, let’s get those ingredients lined up. Here’s what you’ll need to create this eagerly awaited dish:
- 2 medium zucchinis or yellow squashes (or a mix for a colorful touch!)
- 1 cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: Fresh herbs like basil or parsley for garnish.
Instructions
Now, let’s dig into the fun part! Follow these simple steps for your new favorite side dish that’s both easy and delightful:
- Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). It’s like giving your squash a cozy little home to bake in!
- Slice the Squash: Grab your trusty mandoline or a sharp knife, and thinly slice the zucchini or squash (about 1/4 inch thick). Don’t worry about perfection—rough edges just add character.
- Season the Slices: In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Toss in those beautiful squash slices, ensuring they get a nice coating. Get in there with your hands—it’s the most satisfying part!
- Layer & Cheese: Arrange those seasoned slices neatly on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, overlapping slightly if needed. Now, sprinkle that grated Parmesan generously over the top. Don’t be shy; this is where the magic happens!
- Bake: Pop your squash into the oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until they’re golden and crispy on the edges. You might want to set a timer to avoid the infamous “over-browned” look; we want crispy, not charcoal!
- Garnish: Once your Thinly Sliced Parmesan Squash is out of the oven, sprinkle it with fresh herbs if you have some lying around. They not only add flavor but also a pop of color—like an Instagram influencer on veggie steroids!
Notes
- Experiment with Flavor: Feel free to switch it up with different cheeses—Feta or Mozzarella could work wonders too. Just steer clear of the blues (unless you’re feeling adventurous!).
- Serve with Style: This dish pairs beautifully with grilled meats, pasta, or even as a standalone snack! Try serving the slices with a dollop of Greek yogurt or tzatziki; your taste buds will thank you.
- Make-ahead Magic: Pre-slice those squashes in advance and store them in the fridge. Snacking on semi-prepped veggies makes you feel like a culinary powerhouse!