Preparation:

1. Preheat your oven:
   • Start by preheating your oven to 180°C (356°F). This ensures that it’s hot and ready for baking as soon as you’re done assembling the dish.
2. Prepare the zucchini:
   • Wash the 600 g of zucchini thoroughly under cold running water. Pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel.
   • Cut off the ends of each zucchini and slice them thinly, lengthwise. You want the slices to be around 3-4 mm thick. Thin slices will cook evenly and absorb the flavors well during baking.
3. Prepare the breadcrumb mixture:
   • In a large bowl, mix together 100 g of bread crumbs, 3 tablespoons of fine bread crumbs, and 3 tablespoons of grated Parmesan cheese.
   • Add the minced garlic, a generous pinch of black pepper, and the chopped parsley. Mix everything together until well combined. This mixture will be used to coat the zucchini slices for that irresistible crispy top layer.
   • Set aside a few tablespoons of this mixture for sprinkling on top later.
4. Layering the zucchini and filling:
   • Lightly grease your baking dish with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil.
   • Start by laying down a layer of zucchini slices, slightly overlapping each other like shingles. This will form the base of your dish.
   • On top of the zucchini layer, add a few slices of provola cheese and prosciutto cotto. Spread the cheese and ham evenly over the zucchini to ensure every bite has that delicious filling.
   • Sprinkle a small amount of the breadcrumb mixture over the cheese and ham to add extra flavor and texture.
5. Repeat the layers:
   • Continue layering the zucchini slices, provola cheese, prosciutto cotto, and breadcrumb mixture until all the zucchini is used up. Aim to finish with a top layer of zucchini slices.
   • Once your layering is complete, sprinkle the remaining breadcrumb mixture evenly across the top of the dish. This will help create a golden, crispy crust when baked.
6. Drizzle with olive oil:
   • Lightly drizzle the top with extra virgin olive oil. The olive oil will help the breadcrumbs become crispy and flavorful while baking.
7. Baking the zucchini:
   • Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake at 180°C (356°F) for approximately 25-30 minutes.
   • Keep an eye on the dish as it bakes. The zucchini should become tender, and the breadcrumb topping should turn a lovely golden brown. The cheese inside should be melted and gooey, adding to the overall flavor of the dish.
8. Finishing touches:
   • Once the zucchini is baked to perfection, remove the dish from the oven. Allow it to cool for about 5 minutes before serving. This helps the layers set and makes it easier to cut into servings.
   • If you want to add extra freshness and color, sprinkle some chopped parsley on top before serving.

Tips:

• Choosing the zucchini: Select zucchini that are firm to the touch and have a smooth, dark green skin. Avoid zucchini with blemishes or soft spots, as these can indicate overripeness.
• Substitute for provola: If you can’t find provola cheese, you can substitute it with mozzarella or fontina. Both of these cheeses melt well and will provide a similar creamy texture.
• For a vegetarian option: If you prefer a vegetarian version, simply leave out the prosciutto cotto and add more cheese or veggies like thinly sliced mushrooms or roasted peppers.
• Serving suggestions: This zucchini bake can be served as a main dish alongside a simple salad or as a side dish for grilled chicken or fish. It’s incredibly versatile and pairs well with many dishes.

Possible Questions:

• Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
  • Yes! You can prepare the entire dish, cover it with plastic wrap, and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready to bake, simply pop it into the oven for the same baking time.
• Can I freeze this dish?
  • Freezing is possible, though the texture of the zucchini may change slightly upon thawing. It’s best to freeze after baking. Allow the zucchini bake to cool completely, then cover it tightly and freeze for up to a month. Reheat in the oven at 180°C until warmed through.
• What other cheeses can I use?
  • You can experiment with various cheeses such as gouda, cheddar, or asiago for a different flavor profile.

Conclusion:

This oven-baked zucchini recipe is a fantastic option for a quick and light meal that’s loaded with flavor and texture. It’s an easy-to-make, no-fry alternative that feels indulgent while still being healthy. The combination of soft zucchini, savory prosciutto, melted provola, and crunchy breadcrumbs will make this dish a new favorite in your kitchen. Whether you’re cooking for your family or guests, this simple yet impressive recipe will leave everyone asking for more!

Enjoy!