Prepare to transform the humble zucchini into a culinary masterpiece that will have your dinner guests begging for seconds! This Hasselback Zucchini with Lemon Basil and Feta is not just a side dish – it's a flavor explosion that turns ordinary vegetables into an extraordinary experience. With its crispy edges, melting feta, and bright lemon-basil finish, this recipe is about to become your new go-to for impressive yet incredibly easy cooking.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 medium zucchinis
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Wash the zucchinis thoroughly and pat them dry with paper towels. Using a sharp knife, carefully make thin, close cuts across the zucchini at a slight diagonal, cutting about 3/4 of the way through but being careful not to slice completely.
- Place the prepared zucchinis on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle olive oil evenly over the zucchinis, ensuring the oil gets between the cuts. Use your fingers or a pastry brush to help distribute the oil.
- Season the zucchinis generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper, making sure to season between the cuts.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the zucchini is tender and the edges start to crisp and turn golden brown.
- While the zucchinis are baking, prepare the lemon and basil topping. Zest the entire lemon and chop the fresh basil leaves finely.
- Once the zucchinis are cooked, remove from the oven and immediately sprinkle with crumbled feta cheese, allowing the residual heat to slightly melt the cheese.
- Garnish with fresh lemon zest and chopped basil. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top for added brightness.
- Serve immediately while warm, ensuring each serving gets the crispy edges and melted feta.
Tips
- Cutting Technique: Use a sharp knife and place chopsticks on either side of the zucchini to prevent cutting all the way through. This creates those signature accordion-like cuts.
- Oil Distribution: Take your time drizzling and brushing olive oil between the cuts. This ensures every slice gets crispy and flavorful.
- Seasoning Secret: Don't be shy with salt and pepper – season generously between the cuts for maximum flavor.
- Cheese Timing: Add feta in the last few minutes of baking or immediately after removing from the oven to get a perfect melt without burning.
- Fresh is Best: Use fresh basil and lemon zest right before serving to maximize the bright, aromatic flavors.
- Serving Tip: Serve immediately while warm to enjoy the crispy texture and melted cheese at its peak.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 95kcal
Carbohydrates: 4g
Protein: 3g
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 12mg
