Are you tired of bland, boring vegetable sides that put everyone to sleep? Get ready to revolutionize your dinner plate with this mouthwatering Chili Roasted Zucchini recipe that packs a flavor punch and transforms humble zucchini into a crispy, spicy sensation! In just 30 minutes, you'll create a vegan dish so delicious, even die-hard meat lovers will be begging for seconds.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Vegan
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 medium zucchinis
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Wash the zucchinis thoroughly under cool running water. Pat them dry completely with clean kitchen towels or paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps achieve a crispy roasted texture.
- Trim off both ends of the zucchinis. Cut them lengthwise into uniform quarters or half-moon shapes, approximately 1/2 inch thick. Consistent cutting ensures even roasting.
- Place the zucchini pieces in a large mixing bowl. Drizzle olive oil evenly over the zucchini, then sprinkle chili powder, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Toss gently to coat all pieces uniformly with seasonings.
- Spread the seasoned zucchini pieces in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Ensure they are not overcrowded to allow proper roasting and prevent steaming.
- Roast in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, flipping halfway through cooking time to ensure even browning and crispy edges.
- Remove from oven when zucchini edges are golden brown and slightly crisp. Let cool for 2-3 minutes before serving to allow flavors to settle.
Tips
- Moisture is the enemy of crispy roasting! Always thoroughly pat your zucchini dry before seasoning to ensure those perfect golden-brown edges.
- Don't overcrowd the baking sheet. Give each zucchini piece some breathing room to roast, not steam. This guarantees maximum crispiness.
- For extra flavor depth, consider adding a sprinkle of smoked paprika alongside the chili powder or a quick squeeze of fresh lime juice after roasting.
- If you like extra heat, experiment with different chili powders like chipotle or add a pinch of cayenne for a more intense kick.
- These roasted zucchinis are incredibly versatile - serve as a side dish, toss in salads, or use as a topping for grain bowls for added excitement.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 45kcal
Carbohydrates: 4g
Protein: 2g
Fat: 3g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
