Are you looking for a quick, healthy, and incredibly flavorful dinner recipe? Then look no further! This zucchini and tomato bake is the perfect solution for busy weeknights. Packed with fresh vegetables, herbs, and a touch of cheesy goodness, this dish is a crowd-pleaser that's surprisingly easy to make. It's a fantastic example of homemade cooking at its best, offering a delicious and nutritious alternative to heavier meals. Get ready to discover one of the best recipes for a light yet satisfying dinner!
Ingredients:
- 2 medium zucchini, sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
- 2 pints cherry or grape tomatoes
- 1 medium yellow onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
Instructions:
Get Started: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish. This simple prep work ensures even baking and easy cleanup.
Sauté the Aromatics: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and sauté for about 5 minutes, until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. This step builds a flavorful base for your bake.
Layer the Vegetables: Arrange half of the zucchini slices in the prepared baking dish. Top with the sautéed onion and garlic mixture, followed by all the cherry tomatoes. Then, layer the remaining zucchini slices on top.
Season and Bake: Sprinkle the oregano, salt, and pepper evenly over the vegetables. Drizzle with a bit more olive oil if desired. Finally, generously sprinkle the Parmesan cheese over the top.
Bake to Perfection: Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the zucchini is tender and slightly browned and the tomatoes have softened and released their juices. If using feta cheese, sprinkle it on during the last 5 minutes of baking.
Garnish and Serve: Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before garnishing with fresh basil. Serve warm and enjoy this easy and healthy meal!
Cooking Tips for the Best Zucchini and Tomato Bake:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Ensure there's enough space between the zucchini slices to allow for even cooking.
- Adjust seasoning to taste: Feel free to adjust the amount of salt, pepper, and oregano to your preference.
- Add other vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for extra flavor and nutrients.
- Use different cheeses: Experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella or provolone for a different flavor profile.
Variations:
- Spicy Zucchini and Tomato Bake: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Mediterranean Zucchini and Tomato Bake: Add Kalamata olives and crumbled feta cheese for a Mediterranean twist.
- Herby Zucchini and Tomato Bake: Experiment with different herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This recipe is a great source of vitamins and fiber. The nutritional content can vary based on the exact ingredients used, but a single serving will generally contain approximately:
- Calories: 150-200
- Protein: 5-7g
- Fat: 8-10g
- Carbohydrates: 15-20g
- Fiber: 3-4g
This zucchini and tomato bake is a perfect example of a healthy and delicious meal that's quick to prepare. It's perfect for a weeknight dinner, a potluck, or even a light lunch. Enjoy this simple yet satisfying recipe, and let us know your thoughts in the comments below!