This delicious baked zucchini recipe combines tender vegetables, melted cheese, and a creamy garlic dill sauce for a comforting and flavorful dish. Perfect for a healthy meal or snack, it’s sure to please vegetarians and vegetable lovers alike.
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
For the Baked Zucchini:
- 1 zucchini, sliced into rounds
- Olive oil, for drizzling
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Paprika, to taste
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 1 clove of garlic, minced
- 1 pepper (red or green), chopped
- 100g ketchup (about ½ cup)
- Italian herbs, to taste
- 100g cheese (like mozzarella or cheddar), grated
- 100g mushrooms, sliced
- 4-6 cherry tomatoes, halved
- Olives, to taste
For the Garlic Dill Sauce:
- 2 tbsp yogurt
- 1 tbsp mayonnaise
- Dill, chopped
- 1 clove of garlic, minced
Directions
For the Baked Zucchini:
- Prepare the Zucchini:
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (360°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Slice the zucchini into rounds and arrange them on the baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt, black pepper, and paprika.
- Bake the Zucchini:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-15 minutes until the zucchini is tender but not mushy. Remove from the oven and set aside.
- Prepare the Vegetable Topping:
- In a skillet, heat a little vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until soft.
- Add the minced garlic and chopped pepper, and cook for another 3-4 minutes. Season with salt, black pepper, and Italian herbs.
- Add Ketchup and Mix:
- Stir in the ketchup and cook for another minute, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Assemble the Zucchini:
- Spread the vegetable mixture over the baked zucchini slices. Top with sliced mushrooms, cherry tomato halves, olives, and grated cheese.
- Bake Again:
- Return the zucchini to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
For the Garlic Dill Sauce:
- Combine Sauce Ingredients:
- In a small bowl, mix the yogurt, mayonnaise, chopped dill, and minced garlic. Season with salt to taste.
- Chill the Sauce:
- Refrigerate for 10 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve the baked zucchini hot, drizzled with the garlic dill sauce.
- Pair with a fresh salad or crusty bread for a light meal.
Cooking Tips
- Customize Toppings: Add your favorite vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor.
- Cheese Variety: Try using feta, gouda, or Parmesan for a different twist.
Nutritional Benefits
- Low-Calorie and Nutritious: Zucchini is low in calories and rich in vitamins A and C.
- High in Antioxidants: Tomatoes, garlic, and herbs add antioxidants, promoting heart health.
Dietary Information
- Vegetarian-Friendly: This recipe is suitable for vegetarians.
- Gluten-Free Option: Ensure all ingredients, like ketchup, are gluten-free.
Storage
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Warm in the oven or microwave until heated through.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy and Quick: A simple recipe that’s ready in under 40 minutes.
- Packed with Flavor: Fresh vegetables, herbs, and cheese combine to create a savory, comforting dish.
- Versatile: Enjoy as a side dish, snack, or light main course.
Conclusion
Baked Zucchini with Vegetable Topping and Garlic Dill Sauce is a tasty and nutritious option that’s sure to impress. It’s a great way to enjoy fresh veggies and can be easily customized to suit your taste.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use a different type of squash?
Yes, yellow squash or pattypan squash works well in place of zucchini. - Can I make this dish vegan?
Substitute the cheese with a vegan alternative and use plant-based yogurt and mayo for the sauce. - What other herbs can I use?
Basil, thyme, or rosemary can be used instead of Italian herbs for a different flavor. - Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes, you can prep the veggies and sauce ahead, then assemble and bake when ready to serve. - How do I prevent the zucchini from getting soggy?
Make sure to bake the zucchini slices first to remove some moisture before adding the toppings. - Is there a substitute for ketchup?
You can use tomato paste or marinara sauce with a bit of sweetener if you prefer. - Can I air-fry the zucchini slices?
Yes, air-fry the zucchini at 180°C (360°F) for 8-10 minutes before adding toppings. - Can I add meat to this recipe?
For non-vegetarians, adding cooked chicken, ground meat, or bacon bits is a great option. - Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?
Dried herbs can be used, but reduce the quantity as they are more concentrated in flavor. - Can I skip the sauce?
The garlic dill sauce adds a great flavor, but you can skip it or substitute with a store-bought dressing.