Zucchini can be so much more than just a summer side dish! This Zesty Zucchini Bake transforms it into a star player, creating a warm, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying main course. Layers of tender zucchini slices bathe in a creamy vegetable sauce, all topped with melted cheese and fresh parsley. It’s a simple yet impressive dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
- Olive oil
- 2 zucchinis, thinly sliced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 carrot, grated
- 300 grams sliced mushrooms (such as white, cremini, or portobello)
- 1 tomato, chopped
- 1 tablespoon flour
- 400 grams heavy cream (or whipping cream)
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- 100 grams shredded cheese (mozzarella, Gruyere, or a blend)
- Salt to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg (ground or grated)
- Pepper to taste
Instructions:
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Preheat the Oven: Get your oven ready for baking by preheating it to 180°C (350°F).
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Sauté the Aromatics: In a large skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes.
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Veggie Medley: Add the grated carrot and sliced mushrooms to the skillet with the softened onion. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
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Tomatoes Join the Party: Stir in the chopped tomato and cook for another minute or two, allowing the flavors to meld.
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Thicken the Sauce: Add the butter to the skillet and let it melt. Then, sprinkle in the flour and stir well to coat the vegetables. This roux will help thicken the sauce.
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Creamy Dream: Gradually whisk in the heavy cream, ensuring there are no lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the sauce thickens and becomes smooth. Season with salt, nutmeg, and pepper to your taste.
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Layer It Up: In a baking dish, arrange the sliced zucchini in a single, even layer. Pour the creamy vegetable sauce over the zucchini slices.
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Cheesy Finish: Sprinkle the shredded cheese and chopped fresh parsley over the top of the dish.
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Bake to Perfection: Bake the assembled zucchini bake in the preheated oven for 10 minutes. You’re looking for melted and bubbly cheese on top.
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Serve and Enjoy!: Take the zucchini bake out of the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. Enjoy this hot and comforting dish alongside a side salad or crusty bread for a complete meal. Bon appétit!
More Information:
- Feel free to use zucchini noodles or spirals instead of sliced zucchini for a fun and textural variation.
- If you don’t have fresh parsley, you can substitute it with dried parsley (use about 1 tablespoon).
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Conclusion:
This Zesty Zucchini Bake is a testament to the versatility of this summer squash. It’s a delicious and easy recipe that’s sure to please everyone at the table. So ditch the boring and embrace the creamy goodness of zucchini with this delightful bake!