If you’re looking for a delicious, easy-to-make dish that combines the fresh flavors of zucchini and tomatoes with creamy, cheesy goodness, this recipe is perfect for you. Baked zucchini and tomatoes, topped with mozzarella and Parmesan, are paired with a flavorful creamy dill sauce that elevates the dish to new heights. Whether served as a main course or a side dish, this recipe is sure to impress.
Preparation Time:
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
Ingredients:
- For the Baked Zucchini and Tomatoes:
- 2 zucchini
- 2 tomatoes
- 4 eggs
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- A bunch of fresh parsley, chopped
- 3 tablespoons of plain yogurt
- 6 tablespoons of all-purpose flour
- Olive oil
- 80 grams of mozzarella cheese, shredded
- Parmesan cheese, grated
- For the Creamy Dill Sauce:
- 2 eggs, hard-boiled and chopped
- 3 tablespoons of plain yogurt
- 1 tablespoon of mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon of dried garlic powder
- Salt to taste
- A bunch of fresh dill, chopped
Instructions:
- Preheat Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Prepare Vegetables:
- Slice the zucchini and tomatoes into thin rounds.
- Make Egg Mixture:
- In a bowl, beat the eggs and add minced garlic, salt, pepper, and chopped parsley. Mix well.
- Prepare Batter:
- In another bowl, combine the yogurt and flour to make a batter.
- Coat and Fry Vegetables:
- Dip each zucchini and tomato slice in the egg mixture first, then coat with the yogurt-flour batter.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Fry the coated zucchini and tomato slices until golden brown on both sides. Remove and drain excess oil on paper towels.
- Bake Vegetables:
- Arrange the fried zucchini and tomato slices in a baking dish. Top with shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Prepare Creamy Dill Sauce:
- While the zucchini and tomatoes are baking, prepare the creamy dill sauce. In a bowl, mix together chopped hard-boiled eggs, yogurt, mayonnaise, dried garlic powder, salt, and chopped fresh dill.
- Serve:
- Serve the baked zucchini and tomatoes hot with a dollop of creamy dill sauce on top.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve as a main dish with a side of crusty bread or a fresh salad.
- Pair with grilled chicken or fish for a more substantial meal.
- Enjoy as a tasty and elegant appetizer for a dinner party.
Cooking Tips:
- Use a mandoline slicer to ensure the zucchini and tomatoes are sliced evenly.
- Fry the vegetables in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan, ensuring they cook evenly and become perfectly crispy.
- For extra flavor, sprinkle some Italian seasoning or dried oregano on top before baking.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Zucchini: Low in calories and high in vitamins A and C, potassium, and antioxidants.
- Tomatoes: Rich in vitamins C and K, potassium, and lycopene, an antioxidant that has been linked to many health benefits.
- Parsley: Provides vitamins A, C, and K, as well as folate and antioxidants.
- Dill: Contains antioxidants and is a good source of vitamins A and C.
Dietary Information:
- Vegetarian: This recipe is suitable for vegetarians.
- Low-Carb: The dish is relatively low in carbohydrates, making it a good option for those watching their carb intake.
- Nut-Free: Contains no nuts, making it safe for those with nut allergies.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Flavorful and Fresh: Combines the fresh flavors of zucchini and tomatoes with a creamy, tangy dill sauce.
- Easy to Make: Simple steps and common ingredients make this dish quick and easy to prepare.
- Versatile: Can be served as a main dish, side dish, or appetizer.
- Nutritious: Packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants from fresh vegetables and herbs.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for impressing guests at dinner parties or family gatherings.
Conclusion:
This Baked Zucchini and Tomatoes with Creamy Dill Sauce recipe is a delightful and nutritious dish that brings together the fresh flavors of summer vegetables with creamy, cheesy goodness. Easy to prepare and versatile in serving options, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Serve it hot with a generous dollop of creamy dill sauce and enjoy the compliments from your family and friends!