Crispy Zucchini Parmesan Coins

Highlighted under: Clean Ideas

I absolutely love making Crispy Zucchini Parmesan Coins as a creative way to include more veggies in my meals. These crunchy delights are not only packed with flavor but are simple to prepare. I usually serve them as a side dish or a snack during gatherings, and they become an instant hit every time. The best part is that you can customize the seasoning to suit your palate, making them even more enjoyable. Let's dive into these delicious bites that bring a satisfying crunch to the table!

Verity Langdon

Created by

Verity Langdon

Last updated on 2026-01-15T21:01:35.784Z

When I first came across the idea of making Zucchini Coins, I was skeptical about how well they would turn out. To my surprise, they became a favorite in our household. The combination of crispy breadcrumbs and flavorful parmesan creates a delightful texture that we can't resist. I've learned that salting the zucchinis before cooking helps draw out excess moisture, ensuring that they stay crispy.

Experimenting with herbs and spices has also added a unique flavor twist. Adding a pinch of garlic powder or smoked paprika makes these coins even more irresistible. You can easily modify them according to seasonal herbs, making this recipe versatile throughout the year!

Why You Will Love These Crispy Zucchini Parmesan Coins

  • Perfectly crispy texture that satisfies the crunch cravings
  • Flavorful parmesan complements the fresh zucchini beautifully
  • Quick and easy to prepare, making them great for any meal

The Art of Coating

Achieving the perfect coating on your zucchini coins is crucial for that crunchy texture. Make sure to use panko breadcrumbs for an extra crispiness, as they provide more air pockets compared to traditional breadcrumbs. If you prefer a gluten-free option, substitute the breadcrumbs with crushed gluten-free crackers or almond flour. Just remember to adjust the seasoning as the flavor profile may change.

When coating each zucchini coin, ensure that it's thoroughly dipped in the beaten eggs before frying or baking. This step helps the breadcrumb mixture adhere properly and prevents it from falling off during cooking. If you notice that your breadcrumbs aren't sticking well, try reducing the moisture on the zucchini by patting them dry with a paper towel after salting.

Serving Suggestions

These Crispy Zucchini Parmesan Coins serve beautifully as an appetizer or snack, but don't hesitate to elevate them into a full meal. Pair them with a fresh salad and a protein of your choice, like grilled chicken or fish, for a balanced dinner. The vibrant green from the zucchini is also a fantastic way to incorporate color and nutrients into your plate, making it visually appealing and healthful.

For an extra touch, sprinkle some fresh herbs like basil or parsley over the coins just before serving to enhance the flavor and aesthetics. I also recommend offering a variety of dipping sauces, such as marinara, ranch, or a spicy aioli, to cater to different tastes, making your gathering even more enjoyable.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients before you start cooking:

Ingredients

  • 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into coins
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • Oil for frying

Make sure to use fresh zucchini for the best flavor and texture!

Instructions

Follow these steps to make your Crispy Zucchini Parmesan Coins:

Prepare the Zucchini

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Slice the zucchinis into evenly sized coins. Sprinkle salt over them and let them sit for about 15 minutes to draw out excess moisture.

Coat the Coins

In a shallow bowl, mix the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, oregano, and some pepper. In another bowl, beat the eggs. Dip each zucchini coin into the egg, then coat it with the breadcrumb mixture.

Bake or Fry

Place the coated zucchini coins on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or heat oil in a skillet. If baking, drizzle a little oil over the coins and bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway. If frying, cook until golden brown on both sides.

Serve and Enjoy!

Once they're crispy and golden, remove them from heat and let them cool slightly. Serve them warm with your favorite dipping sauce!

Try serving them with marinara sauce or a creamy ranch dip!

Secondary image

Pro Tips

  • For an extra touch, consider adding fresh herbs like basil or thyme to the breadcrumb mixture. It adds delightful freshness and enhances the overall flavor.

Storage and Reheating

If you happen to have leftover Crispy Zucchini Parmesan Coins, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last for about 3-4 days. Just keep in mind that they may lose some of their initial crunchiness after being stored. To restore their crispy texture, reheat them in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes, checking occasionally to ensure they don’t burn.

Freezing is also an option if you want to make a larger batch ahead of time. Lay the coated but uncooked zucchini coins in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a zip-top bag, where they can be stored for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, just bake them directly from frozen; they may require a few extra minutes in the oven.

Variations to Try

Feel free to mix up the flavor profile by experimenting with different cheese types. Rather than solely using Parmesan, add some shredded mozzarella for gooeyness or even a sharp cheddar for a bolder taste. You can adjust the amount of garlic powder and oregano based on your personal taste; adding cayenne pepper could offer a spicy kick that pairs wonderfully with the zucchini's mild taste.

For a lighter variation, consider using an air fryer instead of frying in oil. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and arrange the coated coins in a single layer. Cook for about 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through until they are crisp and golden brown. This alternative significantly cuts down on calories and maintains that satisfying crunch.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these zucchini coins ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare and coat the zucchini coins earlier in the day and store them in the fridge until you are ready to bake or fry them.

→ What can I substitute for Parmesan cheese?

You can use pecorino cheese or a dairy-free cheese alternative if you're looking for a vegan option.

→ Do I have to fry them, or can I bake them?

While frying gives a crispier texture, baking is a healthier alternative. Just be sure to use enough oil to achieve a good crunch.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven for a few minutes to regain their crispiness.

Crispy Zucchini Parmesan Coins

I absolutely love making Crispy Zucchini Parmesan Coins as a creative way to include more veggies in my meals. These crunchy delights are not only packed with flavor but are simple to prepare. I usually serve them as a side dish or a snack during gatherings, and they become an instant hit every time. The best part is that you can customize the seasoning to suit your palate, making them even more enjoyable. Let's dive into these delicious bites that bring a satisfying crunch to the table!

Prep Time20 minutes
Cooking Duration25 minutes
Overall Time45 minutes

Created by: Verity Langdon

Recipe Type: Clean Ideas

Skill Level: Easy

Final Quantity: 4 servings

What You'll Need

Ingredients

  1. 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into coins
  2. 1 cup breadcrumbs
  3. ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  4. 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  5. 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  6. Salt and pepper to taste
  7. 2 large eggs, beaten
  8. Oil for frying

How-To Steps

Step 01

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Slice the zucchinis into evenly sized coins. Sprinkle salt over them and let them sit for about 15 minutes to draw out excess moisture.

Step 02

In a shallow bowl, mix the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, oregano, and some pepper. In another bowl, beat the eggs. Dip each zucchini coin into the egg, then coat it with the breadcrumb mixture.

Step 03

Place the coated zucchini coins on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or heat oil in a skillet. If baking, drizzle a little oil over the coins and bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway. If frying, cook until golden brown on both sides.

Step 04

Once they're crispy and golden, remove them from heat and let them cool slightly. Serve them warm with your favorite dipping sauce!

Extra Tips

  1. For an extra touch, consider adding fresh herbs like basil or thyme to the breadcrumb mixture. It adds delightful freshness and enhances the overall flavor.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 250 kcal
  • Total Fat: 15g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Cholesterol: 120mg
  • Sodium: 450mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 22g
  • Dietary Fiber: 2g
  • Sugars: 4g
  • Protein: 9g