Are you tired of bland, boring vegetable dishes that make healthy eating feel like a chore? Get ready to transform your perception of zucchini with this mouthwatering Baked Zucchini Skinny Buttermilk Ranch recipe that's so deliciously crispy, you'll be shocked it's actually good for you! Perfect for picky eaters, health-conscious foodies, and anyone looking to add a crunchy, flavorful twist to their veggie game.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 medium zucchinis, sliced
- 1 cup buttermilk ranch dressing
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 cup shredded cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Wash the zucchinis thoroughly and slice them into uniform 1/4-inch thick rounds. Pat the zucchini slices dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which ensures crispier baking.
- In a shallow bowl, pour the buttermilk ranch dressing. In another shallow bowl, mix breadcrumbs with half of the shredded cheese. Season the breadcrumb mixture with salt and pepper.
- Dip each zucchini slice first into the buttermilk ranch dressing, ensuring complete coverage. Then coat the slice in the seasoned breadcrumb and cheese mixture, pressing gently to help the coating adhere.
- Arrange the coated zucchini slices in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they do not overlap. This allows each slice to crisp evenly.
- Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese over the top of the zucchini slices for extra flavor and browning.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until the zucchini is golden brown and the cheese is melted and slightly crispy.
- Remove from the oven and let cool for 2-3 minutes. Serve immediately while warm and crispy.
Tips
- Moisture is the enemy of crispiness! Always pat your zucchini slices completely dry before coating to ensure a perfectly crisp exterior.
- Use a wire rack on your baking sheet for even more crunch, allowing hot air to circulate around each slice.
- For extra flavor, try adding herbs like dried basil or oregano to your breadcrumb mixture.
- If you want a gluten-free version, substitute breadcrumbs with almond flour or crushed gluten-free crackers.
- Serve immediately after baking to maintain maximum crispiness - these zucchini bites are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 220kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 10g
Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 25mg
