Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

• 3 medium-sized zucchinis, sliced into rounds
• 2 tablespoons olive oil, for greasing and drizzling
• Salt, to taste
• 150 g (5.3 oz) ham, chopped or sliced into small pieces
• 150 g (5.3 oz) cheddar cheese, shredded

Steps to Make Zucchini and Ham Gratin with Cheddar Cheese

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories per serving: ~280 kcal

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 180°C (350°F). This ensures that the oven reaches the right temperature, allowing the zucchini to cook evenly and the cheese to melt perfectly.

Step 2: Prepare the Zucchini
Wash the zucchinis thoroughly, then slice them into rounds about 1/4 inch thick. If you prefer a slightly different texture, you can also cut them into half-moons or cubes, depending on your preference. Zucchini has a mild flavor and a lot of moisture, so it’s essential to slice them evenly to ensure uniform cooking.

Step 3: Grease the Baking Dish
Lightly grease a baking dish with 1 tablespoon of olive oil. This will help prevent the gratin from sticking and make cleanup easier.

Step 4: Layer the Zucchini
Arrange the zucchini slices in a single layer at the bottom of the prepared baking dish. It’s okay if some slices overlap slightly, but try to keep the layers even to ensure the zucchini cooks evenly.

Step 5: Add the Ham
Evenly distribute the chopped or sliced ham over the zucchini. The ham adds a savory depth of flavor that complements the mild zucchini and pairs beautifully with the melted cheese.

Step 6: Add Seasoning
Sprinkle the zucchini and ham with salt to taste. Since ham can be salty, it’s important to season lightly and adjust to your liking. You can also add freshly ground black pepper or other spices like garlic powder or paprika if you prefer extra flavor.

Step 7: Top with Cheese
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese generously over the ham and zucchini. The cheese will melt into the dish, creating a creamy, gooey texture that brings everything together. If you like a bit of extra richness, you can use a mix of cheeses—cheddar and mozzarella work wonderfully, or you could add some Parmesan for a touch of sharpness.

Step 8: Drizzle with Olive Oil
Drizzle the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil over the top of the dish. This will help the cheese brown and give the gratin a golden, crispy finish.

Step 9: Bake
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the zucchini is tender and the cheese is bubbling and golden brown. You can check the doneness by inserting a fork into the zucchini—it should slide in easily if the vegetables are fully cooked.

Step 10: Serve
Once the gratin is ready, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or dill for a burst of color and flavor.

Why This Recipe is Timeless

This Zucchini and Ham Gratin with Cheddar Cheese is the perfect example of how simple, accessible ingredients can come together to create a dish that feels both comforting and sophisticated. It’s a versatile recipe that can be adapted based on what you have in your kitchen, making it a timeless option for a wide range of occasions.

The use of zucchini as the base for the gratin gives the dish a light, fresh quality, which contrasts beautifully with the richness of the cheddar cheese and the savoriness of the ham. This makes it an excellent option for those who want a dish that’s filling but not too heavy. The melted cheese creates a creamy layer that brings everything together, ensuring that each bite is as delicious as the last.

What makes this dish especially timeless is its versatility. You can swap out ingredients based on what you have available—use different cheeses, add mushrooms or onions for extra flavor, or replace the ham with bacon or sausage for a more indulgent twist. The simplicity of the dish means that it can be adapted to suit your preferences, making it a great go-to meal.

This gratin also works perfectly for many occasions, whether you’re making a quick weeknight dinner, preparing a side dish for a family gathering, or serving it as a light main course. It’s a dish that is easy to prepare, doesn’t require advanced cooking techniques, and can be served at almost any time of year. This makes it an ideal meal that will stay relevant and loved for years to come.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Calories: ~280 kcal
• Protein: 16g
• Carbohydrates: 8g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugars: 4g
• Total Fat: 21g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Cholesterol: 45mg
• Sodium: 600mg
• Calcium: 20% DV
• Iron: 6% DV

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make this gratin without cheese?
While cheese is an essential part of this dish, you can leave it out if you’re looking for a dairy-free or lighter version. For a cheese-free alternative, try using breadcrumbs or a dairy-free cheese substitute. The gratin will still be flavorful, though it may lack the rich, creamy texture.

2. Can I add other vegetables to the gratin?
Absolutely! This gratin is highly customizable. You can add vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, tomatoes, or spinach for added flavor and nutrition. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time based on the added vegetables.

3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare this gratin ahead of time. Simply assemble the dish as instructed, cover it with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, remove it from the fridge and bake as directed. If it’s cold from the fridge, it may take a few extra minutes to cook through.

4. Can I substitute the ham with another protein?
Yes, you can substitute the ham with other proteins such as chicken, turkey, bacon, or sausage. The choice of protein will slightly alter the flavor, but the gratin will still be delicious.

Tips for Making the Best Zucchini and Ham Gratin

• Slice the Zucchini Thinly: Thin zucchini slices will cook evenly and absorb the flavors better. If the slices are too thick, they might not soften completely.
• Drain Excess Moisture: Zucchini releases a lot of water as it cooks. To prevent a soggy gratin, you can lightly salt the zucchini slices and let them sit for about 10 minutes to draw out excess moisture. Then, pat them dry with a paper towel before assembling the dish.
• Use Fresh Ham: Fresh, quality ham will provide a more savory depth of flavor. Avoid using pre-cooked ham, as it may result in a drier texture.
• Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheeses! Cheddar works great for a sharp, tangy flavor, but you can also use mozzarella for a stretchier texture or Gruyère for a nuttier taste.
• Seasoning: Don’t be afraid to adjust the seasoning. A little garlic powder, onion powder, or herbs like thyme or oregano can elevate the flavors even further.

Storage Tips

• Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The gratin will continue to develop flavors as it sits.
• Freezing: You can freeze this gratin for up to 2 months. To freeze, let the gratin cool completely before covering it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. When ready to enjoy, bake from frozen at 180°C (350°F) for 40-45 minutes, or until heated through.

Conclusion

This Zucchini and Ham Gratin with Cheddar Cheese is a dish that brings together simple ingredients in a way that’s both satisfying and comforting. With its mild zucchini base, savory ham, and gooey cheese, this gratin is not only delicious but also versatile enough to suit various tastes and occasions. Whether served as a side dish or a light main, it will surely become a favorite in your kitchen. Plus, its adaptability and ease of preparation make it a timeless recipe that will never go out of style.

This dish also highlights the beauty of home cooking—taking what you have on hand and transforming it into something incredible. As you experiment with variations, you’ll discover your perfect version, making this gratin a staple in your culinary repertoire for years to come. Enjoy!