Roasted Zucchini Lemon Sesame (Printable Version)

Tender roasted zucchini slices topped with a crunchy lemon-sesame mixture for a fresh Mediterranean side dish.

# Ingredient List:

→ Vegetables

01 - 4 medium zucchini (approximately 1.5 lbs), sliced into ½-inch thick rounds

→ Olive Oil & Seasoning

02 - 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
03 - ½ teaspoon kosher salt
04 - ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

→ Lemon Sesame Crunch

05 - ¼ cup raw sesame seeds
06 - 1 tablespoon finely grated lemon zest (from 1 large lemon)
07 - 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
08 - 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
09 - 1 small garlic clove, finely minced
10 - ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
11 - ¼ teaspoon flaky sea salt

# How to Make It:

01 - Preheat the oven to 425°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.
02 - Place the zucchini rounds in a large bowl. Drizzle with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, then add the kosher salt and black pepper. Toss thoroughly until all pieces are evenly coated.
03 - Arrange the seasoned zucchini in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring pieces do not overlap. Roast for 20 to 25 minutes, flipping halfway through the cooking time, until the slices are golden brown and tender when pierced with a fork.
04 - While the zucchini roasts, heat a dry skillet over medium heat. Add the sesame seeds and toast, stirring frequently to prevent burning, until golden and fragrant, approximately 2 to 3 minutes. Transfer to a bowl to cool completely.
05 - In a small bowl, combine the cooled toasted sesame seeds, lemon zest, lemon juice, chopped parsley, minced garlic, crushed red pepper flakes if using, flaky sea salt, and the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Mix thoroughly to form a cohesive crunchy topping mixture.
06 - Transfer the roasted zucchini to a serving platter in an even layer. Spoon the lemon sesame crunch topping generously over the zucchini. Serve immediately while warm, or allow to cool to room temperature for serving later.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • The way the crunch transforms simple zucchini into something you actually get excited about eating
  • It comes together faster than you can decide what to make for dinner
02 -
  • Overcrowding the baking sheet is the fastest way to steam your zucchini into disappointment
  • Let the toasted sesame seeds cool before mixing, otherwise they cook the herbs and garlic
03 -
  • Pat the zucchini dry with a towel before tossing with oil, it roasts better without extra moisture
  • The topping is also incredible on roasted cauliflower or eggplant

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