A quick, flavorful side dish with a golden, crispy finish and melty cheese topping.

This recipe brings out the best in zucchini with just a few simple ingredients. The rounds are pan-fried until beautifully golden on the outside, soft and tender on the inside, then topped with a blend of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese for a rich, savory finish. Perfect as a light appetizer, side dish, or even a low-carb snack!

Ingredients

Ingredient Quantity
Zucchini, sliced into rounds 2 medium
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Salt and black pepper To taste
Shredded mozzarella cheese ½ cup
Grated Parmesan cheese ¼ cup
Fresh parsley, chopped (garnish) 1 tablespoon
Instructions

1. Prepare the Zucchini
Wash the zucchini under cool running water and pat dry with a clean towel.
Slice each zucchini into ¼-inch thick rounds. Try to keep the slices uniform in thickness to ensure even cooking.
Lightly sprinkle both sides of the zucchini rounds with salt and black pepper to season.
2. Pan-Fry the Zucchini
In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Allow the oil to shimmer but not smoke.
Add the zucchini slices in a single layer (you may need to cook them in batches to avoid overcrowding).
Fry for 2–3 minutes on each side, or until the undersides turn golden brown and the centers become tender. Use tongs or a spatula to flip carefully.
3. Add the Cheese

Once the zucchini rounds are nicely browned, reduce the heat to low.
Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan evenly over the zucchini in the pan.
Cover the skillet with a lid and let the cheese melt for 1–2 minutes, until bubbly and gooey.
4. Serve

Using a spatula, gently transfer the cheesy zucchini rounds to a serving platter.
Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top for a burst of color and fresh flavor.
Serve immediately while hot and melty.
Tips & Variations

Add a kick: Sprinkle a pinch of red pepper flakes over the cheese before melting for a spicy twist.
Make it Italian-style: Add a light dusting of Italian seasoning or garlic powder before cooking.
Low-carb meal idea: Serve over a bed of marinara sauce for a pizza-inspired, low-carb treat.
Crispier version: Lightly dredge the zucchini slices in flour or breadcrumbs before frying.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with grilled meats, pasta, or a crisp green salad. It also works well as a finger food for parties—just add toothpicks!