Description
This Parmesan Tomato Zucchini Bake is a delightful and healthy casserole featuring layers of thinly sliced zucchini and ripe tomatoes, generously topped with a blend of Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses, garlic, and Italian herbs. Baked to perfection, it offers a flavorful, cheesy dish that is perfect as a side or a light main course.
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables
- 2 medium zucchini, thinly sliced
- 3 medium ripe tomatoes, thinly sliced
Cheeses
- 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Other Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (such as oregano and basil)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (optional for topping)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the dish evenly.
- Prepare Baking Dish: Grease a baking dish with a little olive oil to prevent sticking and add flavor.
- Arrange Zucchini: Place the thinly sliced zucchini in a single layer at the bottom of the baking dish to form the base of the bake.
- Layer Tomatoes: Add a layer of thinly sliced tomatoes evenly over the zucchini slices.
- Mix Herb Oil: In a small bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and dried Italian herbs to create a flavorful drizzle.
- Drizzle Oil Mixture: Pour the garlic and herb oil mixture over the tomato layer to infuse the bake with aromatic flavors.
- Add Cheese: Evenly sprinkle the shredded Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses over the vegetables for a rich and cheesy topping.
- Add Breadcrumbs (Optional): If desired, sprinkle breadcrumbs on top to create a crunchy texture once baked.
- Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheeses are melted, bubbly, and the vegetables are tender.
- Garnish and Serve: Once baked, garnish with freshly chopped parsley for added color and freshness before serving.
Notes
- For a gluten-free option, omit the breadcrumbs or use gluten-free breadcrumbs.
- Use fresh herbs if possible to enhance flavor, but dried herbs work well too.
- This dish can be served as a side or a light vegetarian main course.
- Allow the bake to rest for a few minutes after removing from the oven for better slicing and flavor melding.
