Zucchini Tomato Bake Recipe

This Zucchini Tomato Bake is a delightful and comforting dish that combines fresh zucchini, juicy tomatoes, and melted cheese. It’s an easy way to enjoy a hearty, vegetable-packed meal.

Ingredients

• 4 cups sliced zucchini (about 2 medium zucchinis)
• 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup chopped onion
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

Preheat Oven

1. Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

Sauté Vegetables

1. Heat Oil: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Cook Onion: Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
4. Add Zucchini: Add the sliced zucchini and cook until slightly tender, about 5 minutes.

Combine Ingredients

1. Add Tomatoes: Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the halved cherry tomatoes.
2. Season: Season with dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper.
3. Transfer: Transfer the vegetable mixture to the prepared baking dish.

Add Cheese

1. Top with Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of the vegetables.
2. Add Parmesan: Finish with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese.

Bake

1. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the vegetables are tender.

Garnish and Serve

1. Cool and Garnish: Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped fresh basil if desired.
2. Serve: Serve warm as a side dish or a light main course.

Notes

• Flavor Boost: For added flavor, include a pinch of red pepper flakes or some sliced olives.
• Cheese Options: Feel free to use other types of cheese, like cheddar or feta, for a different twist.

Serving Size and Timing

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Serving Size: 1 cup

10 FAQs

1. Can I use regular tomatoes instead of cherry tomatoes?
   Yes, but cut them into smaller pieces to ensure they cook evenly.
2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
   Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance and reheat it before serving.
3. What can I use instead of mozzarella cheese?
   Try cheddar, gouda, or feta cheese for a different flavor.
4. Can I add other vegetables?
   Yes, bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach can be great additions.
5. Is this dish suitable for freezing?
   Yes, it freezes well. Just be sure to let it cool completely before freezing.
6. How can I make this dish spicier?
   Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
7. Can I use zucchini with skin on?
   Yes, the skin is perfectly fine and adds texture.
8. What if I don’t have fresh basil?
   Dried basil can be used, though fresh basil adds a nicer flavor.
9. Can I cook this on the stovetop?
   While this recipe is designed for the oven, you could sauté everything in a skillet and add cheese to melt on top.
10. How do I know when the dish is done?
    The cheese should be bubbly and golden, and the vegetables should be tender.

Conclusion

The Zucchini Tomato Bake is a flavorful and versatile dish that’s perfect for enjoying seasonal vegetables. Its cheesy, savory combination makes it a comforting choice for any meal. Enjoy it as a side dish or a light main course!