Creamy Zucchini and Tomato Casserole with Fresh Herbs

This Creamy Zucchini and Tomato Casserole is the perfect dish for anyone looking for a comforting yet healthy meal. It features tender zucchini and juicy tomatoes baked in a creamy sauce, topped with melted cheese and fresh herbs like cilantro and dill. This easy-to-make casserole is great for a weeknight dinner or a weekend family meal. It’s packed with flavor and nutrients, making it a wholesome choice. Plus, the combination of vegetables, cream, and herbs brings out a delightful balance of richness and freshness.

Let’s dive into this delicious recipe that will satisfy your cravings!

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

  • 3 medium-sized zucchinis (approximately 1100g)
  • 4 ripe tomatoes (approximately 550g)
  • 200g sour cream
  • 100g grated cheese (your choice: cheddar, mozzarella, or gouda)
  • 2 sprigs of cilantro (freshly chopped)
  • 2 sprigs of dill (freshly chopped)
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • Salt to taste
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

Steps to Make It:

  1. Prepare the Vegetables:
    • Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
    • Wash the zucchinis and tomatoes thoroughly. Slice the zucchinis into 1/4-inch thick rounds and do the same with the tomatoes. Set both aside.
  2. Layer the Vegetables:
    • Lightly grease a baking dish with 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil.
    • Start by placing a layer of zucchini rounds at the bottom of the dish. Then, add a layer of tomato slices on top of the zucchini.
    • Season each layer with a pinch of salt and a bit of black pepper for added flavor.
  3. Make the Creamy Mixture:
    • In a small bowl, combine the sour cream with freshly chopped cilantro and dill. Mix well.
    • Spread half of this mixture over the first layer of zucchini and tomatoes.
  4. Repeat Layers:
    • Add another layer of zucchini and tomatoes on top of the creamy mixture.
    • Pour the remaining sour cream mixture evenly over the top.
  5. Cheese Topping:
    • Sprinkle the grated cheese over the top layer, ensuring it covers the vegetables evenly. This will give your casserole a delicious, golden-brown crust once baked.
  6. Bake:
    • Drizzle the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil on top to enhance the crispiness.
    • Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender, and the cheese is bubbly and golden.
  7. Serve:
    • Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with additional fresh herbs if desired. Enjoy your creamy zucchini and tomato casserole!

Nutrition Facts (Approximate per serving):

  • Calories: 200 kcal
  • Protein: 7g
  • Carbohydrates: 10g
  • Fat: 14g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Calcium: 160mg
  • Vitamin C: 20mg
  • Iron: 1mg

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

  1. Can I use different types of cheese for this recipe? Yes, you can use any type of cheese that melts well. Cheddar, mozzarella, gouda, or even parmesan would be great options. The type of cheese you choose will influence the overall flavor, so feel free to experiment!
  2. Can I add other vegetables to this casserole? Absolutely! This casserole is very versatile. You can add bell peppers, mushrooms, or even eggplant to add more variety and flavor to the dish.
  3. Is this casserole suitable for a low-carb diet? Yes, zucchini is low in carbohydrates, making this a good option for those following a low-carb or keto-friendly diet. Just make sure the other ingredients you use, like the cheese and sour cream, fit into your dietary plan.

Tips for Making the Best Zucchini and Tomato Casserole:

  1. Choose Fresh Ingredients:
    • The flavor of your casserole will significantly depend on the quality of the vegetables you use. Try to use fresh, firm zucchinis and ripe, juicy tomatoes to get the best results.
  2. Avoid Overcooking:
    • Keep an eye on the casserole while it’s baking to avoid overcooking the vegetables. You want the zucchini to be tender but not mushy.
  3. Add More Seasoning:
    • For a more intense flavor, you can add minced garlic or a sprinkle of smoked paprika to the creamy mixture. You could also add red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
  4. Enhance Creaminess:
    • For an even creamier casserole, you can mix the sour cream with some cream cheese or heavy cream before spreading it over the vegetables.
  5. Cheese Variety:
    • If you’re a fan of cheesy casseroles, feel free to increase the amount of cheese or mix different types like cheddar and parmesan for an even more flavorful topping.

Storage Tips:

  • Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through before serving.
  • Freezing: You can also freeze this casserole! Once it has cooled completely, wrap it tightly in foil or place it in a freezer-safe container. It will keep for up to 2 months in the freezer. To reheat, bake it in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 25-30 minutes or until heated through.

Conclusion:

This Creamy Zucchini and Tomato Casserole is a wholesome, flavorful, and simple dish that can be enjoyed any time of the year. The combination of fresh vegetables, creamy sour cream, and melted cheese is hard to resist. Whether you’re serving it as a side dish or the main course, this casserole is sure to become a family favorite. It’s also perfect for meal prep, as it stores well and can be easily reheated for quick meals.

Give this recipe a try, and don’t hesitate to add your twist to it by experimenting with different herbs, cheeses, or vegetables! Enjoy your cooking experience and the wonderful taste of this creamy, cheesy casserole!