Crispy Zucchini Parmesan Coins

Name: Crispy Zucchini Parmesan Coins
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into 1/4-inch rounds; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko for extra crunch); 2 large eggs, beaten; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Home Baking Ideas

I absolutely love making Crispy Zucchini Parmesan Coins as a delightful snack or appetizer. They offer the perfect combination of crunch and cheesy goodness, providing a guilt-free way to enjoy zucchini. The first time I made them, I was amazed by how simple it was to transform fresh veggies into such a tasty treat. With just a few ingredients and some quick steps, these little coins become a star on any plate. Plus, they are perfect for both kids and adults, appealing to everyone’s taste buds!

Created by

Sophie Adams

Last updated on 2026-01-15T17:33:34.738Z

Each time I make these Crispy Zucchini Parmesan Coins, I can’t help but feel excited for everyone to taste them. The initial crunch followed by the savory cheese melts in your mouth beautifully. The secret to ensuring they remain crispy is draining any excess moisture from the zucchini before breading, which I learned from trial and error!

To elevate these coins, I add a mix of herbs like oregano and thyme, which blend perfectly with the parmesan. It’s those little touches that make a simple side dish feel gourmet. I often serve them with a zesty marinara sauce for dipping, but they’re also delightful on their own!

        Why You'll Love These Crispy Zucchini Parmesan Coins
        Irresistible crunchy outside with a cheesy inside
Packed with flavor from fresh herbs and cheese
Quick and easy to prepare for any occasion

      

Perfecting Texture for Crispy Coins

Achieving the right texture in your Crispy Zucchini Parmesan Coins is crucial for that satisfying crunch. One technique worth noting is the salting step; by letting the zucchini sit with salt, you draw out moisture that can otherwise lead to soggy coins. After 10 minutes of resting, pat the slices dry thoroughly with paper towels before breading to ensure they are not moist. This step significantly impacts the crispness after baking, so don’t skip it!

Using panko breadcrumbs in this recipe adds an extra layer of crunch. If you don't have panko on hand, regular breadcrumbs will still work, but the texture won’t be as light and crispy. If you’d like to elevate the flavor even more, try toasting the breadcrumbs lightly in a skillet before mixing them with the parmesan and herbs. This small step amplifies the toasty flavor, making each bite even more enjoyable.

Flavorful Enhancements and Variations

While the classic recipe is delightful as is, feel free to experiment with different herbs or spices to customize your Crispy Zucchini Parmesan Coins. Consider adding some crushed red pepper flakes for a hint of heat or Italian seasoning for extra zest. Fresh herbs like thyme or basil can also replace dried oregano for a fresher profile. Just remember to adjust the salt accordingly if you're using flavored breadcrumbs.

If you're looking to make these zucchini coins a bit heartier, try incorporating finely grated veggies like carrots or sweet potatoes into the breadcrumbs for added color and nutrition. You can also swap out the Parmesan for other cheeses like mozzarella or cheddar, but keep in mind their melting properties may differ from that of Parmesan, potentially altering the final texture.

Storage and Reheating Tips

These Crispy Zucchini Parmesan Coins are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven, but if you have leftovers, storing them correctly is essential to maintaining their texture. Allow them to cool completely on a baking sheet, then transfer to an airtight container lined with paper towels to absorb moisture. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you're ready to enjoy them again, don’t microwave; instead, reheat in the oven for about 10 minutes at 375°F (190°C) for that desired crunch.

For those who love to meal prep, these zucchini coins can be breaded ahead of time and frozen before baking. Simply arrange the coated coins in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer to a zip-top bag for longer storage. You can bake them straight from the freezer, adding an extra 5 minutes to the baking time. This way, you have a delicious, easy snack ready whenever you need it!

Ingredients

For the Zucchini Coins

2 medium zucchinis, sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup breadcrumbs (panko for extra crunch)
2 large eggs, beaten
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Prepare the Zucchini

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Place the zucchini slices in a colander, sprinkle with salt, and let them sit for about 10 minutes to draw out excess moisture.

Set Up the Dredging Stations

In a shallow bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. In another bowl, beat the eggs.

Bread the Zucchini

Once the zucchini has released moisture, pat the slices dry with paper towels. Dip each zucchini round into the eggs, then coat in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing slightly to adhere.

Bake the Coins

Arrange the breaded zucchini coins in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes until golden brown and crispy, flipping halfway through.

Serve and Enjoy

Remove from the oven and let cool slightly. Serve warm with marinara sauce or a dip of your choice!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, you can mix in some crushed red pepper flakes into the breadcrumb mixture. This adds a nice spicy contrast to the cheesy flavor.

Ingredient Spotlight: Zucchini

Zucchini is a versatile vegetable that shines in this recipe due to its mild flavor and high moisture content, which helps create the desired texture. When selecting zucchini, look for firm ones with smooth, shiny skin. Smaller zucchinis tend to have better flavor and are less seedy, making them ideal for this dish. If you find yourself with larger zucchinis, consider grading them and squeezing out excess moisture before using them, as they can be waterlogged.

Apart from its flavor, zucchini comes with a host of health benefits. It's low in calories and high in vitamins A and C, as well as potassium and fiber. Incorporating zucchini into your diet can promote heart health and digestion, ensuring that these crispy coins are not just a tasty treat but also a nutritious option. Plus, they’re an excellent way to sneak more vegetables into picky eaters' meals!

Perfect Pairings: Dips and Sides

Crispy Zucchini Parmesan Coins pair beautifully with a variety of dips. Traditional marinara is a crowd favorite, providing a tangy counterbalance to the rich, cheesy flavors. However, other options like garlic aioli or tzatziki can complement the coins' crunch perfectly. Experiment with different sauces to see what you like best; just make sure they are thick enough to cling to the coins without making them soggy.

For a fuller meal, consider serving the coins alongside a fresh salad or as part of a veggie platter. Their crispy texture contrasts well with softer sides, creating a balanced plate. You can also set them out at a gathering as an appetizer, ensuring they’re rested for a moment before serving to keep them crisp, ready for everyone to enjoy!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these in advance?

Yes! You can prepare the zucchini coins and bread them ahead of time. Store them in the fridge and bake just before serving.

→ What other veggies can I use?

You can substitute zucchini with eggplant or even yellow squash for a different taste and texture!

→ How do I keep them crispy?

Make sure to drain the zucchini well and bake them immediately after breading. Storing them in an airtight container can cause them to lose their crispness.

→ Can I fry these instead of baking?

Absolutely! For a deeper flavor, you can pan-fry the breaded zucchini coins in a bit of oil until golden and crispy.