Mediterranean Crispy Zucchini Stacks
Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and layered with classic Mediterranean flavors—these Zucchini Stacks are a showstopping side or vegetarian main dish. Perfect for summer gatherings, these golden-baked rounds are stacked with juicy tomatoes, tangy feta, creamy hummus, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze. Easy to make and visually stunning, this recipe brings the sunny, herbaceous taste of the Mediterranean right to your table.
Time:
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Ingredients:
For the Crispy Zucchini:
2 medium zucchinis, sliced into ½-inch rounds
2 large eggs
1 cup panko breadcrumbs
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp dried oregano
Salt & pepper, to taste
Olive oil spray (or a few tablespoons for brushing)
For the Mediterranean Layers:
1 cup cherry tomatoes, sliced
½ cup crumbled feta cheese
½ cup hummus (store-bought or homemade)
Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Balsamic glaze (optional but recommended)
Instructions:
Prep the Zucchini:
Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Set up a breading station: in one bowl, beat the eggs. In another, mix panko, Parmesan, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper.
2. Bread and Bake:
Dip each zucchini slice into the egg, then into the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to coat.
Place coated slices on the baking sheet. Spray or lightly brush with olive oil for crispiness.
Bake for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.
3. Assemble the Stacks:
Once baked, arrange zucchini slices in stacks: start with one slice, top with a dollop of hummus, a slice or two of tomato, a sprinkle of feta, then another zucchini round. Repeat layers as desired (2–3 rounds high).
4. Garnish and Serve:
Drizzle with balsamic glaze and sprinkle with fresh herbs.
Serve warm or at room temperature.
Tips for Success:
Even Slices = Even Cooking: Use a mandoline or a steady hand to slice zucchini uniformly (about ½ inch thick) so they cook evenly and stack neatly.
Crispy Perfection: For the crispiest coating, press the breadcrumbs firmly onto the zucchini, and make sure to flip them halfway through baking or air frying.
Moisture Control: Pat zucchini slices dry with paper towels before breading to prevent sogginess.
Keep Warm for Serving: If you’re making a large batch, keep cooked zucchini rounds warm in a 200°F (93°C) oven until ready to assemble.
Recipe Variations:
Vegan Version:
Use a flax egg (1 tbsp ground flax + 3 tbsp water) in place of eggs.
Swap Parmesan with nutritional yeast or vegan cheese.
Use plant-based feta and hummus.
Mediterranean Protein Boost:
Add slices of grilled halloumi or marinated chickpeas between layers.
Top with a spoonful of tzatziki or Greek yogurt.
Italian Twist:
Use marinara instead of hummus and add mozzarella and fresh basil for an Italian Caprese vibe.
Spicy Kick:
Add crushed red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mix or drizzle with harissa-infused olive oil.
Make It a Meal:
Serve the stacks over a bed of couscous, quinoa, or orzo salad for a filling lunch or dinner.
Mini Stacks for Appetizers:
Use smaller zucchini and build 1–2 layer stacks with a toothpick to secure. Perfect for parties!
Q&A – Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I make these zucchini stacks ahead of time?
A: Yes! Bake the zucchini rounds and store them in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer for crispiness before assembling the stacks.
Q: Can I freeze the crispy zucchini rounds?
A: You can freeze them after baking. Let them cool, then freeze in a single layer before transferring to a container. Reheat from frozen at 400°F (204°C) for 10–12 minutes.
Q: What can I use instead of hummus?
A: Try tzatziki, baba ganoush, whipped feta, or even a garlic yogurt sauce for a flavorful variation.
Q: Can I fry instead of bake the zucchini slices?
A: Yes. Pan-fry in shallow oil over medium heat for 2–3 minutes per side until golden. Drain on paper towels.
Nutrition Information (Per 1 stack, approx., based on a 2-stack serving)
Calories: 220
Protein: 7g
Fat: 13g
Carbs: 18g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 370mg
Note: Values vary based on toppings and exact ingredients used.
Conclusion:
Mediterranean Crispy Zucchini Stacks are more than just a pretty plate—they’re a healthy, crunchy, flavor-packed way to enjoy summer veggies with a global twist. Whether served as a light lunch, a shareable appetizer, or a colorful side dish, these stacks are guaranteed to impress. Easy to adapt and endlessly customizable, they’ll quickly become a go-to favorite in your kitchen.