This Zucchini and Vegetable Casserole is a healthy, comforting dish filled with fresh vegetables and baked to perfection with a golden, cheesy top. It’s a great way to enjoy zucchini and other seasonal vegetables while keeping things light and nutritious. Perfect as a side dish or even a main course for vegetarians, this casserole is sure to be a crowd-pleaser!
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 4-6 servings
Ingredients:
- 3 medium zucchinis, sliced
- 1 cup diced bell peppers (any color)
- 1 cup diced onions
- 1 cup chopped tomatoes
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare Vegetables: In a large pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onions, bell peppers, and garlic, and sauté for about 5 minutes until softened. Add the zucchini slices, tomatoes, spinach, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 5-7 minutes, until the zucchini is tender.
- Assemble the Casserole: Transfer the vegetable mixture into a greased baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese and Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
- Bake: Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the top is golden brown.
- Serve: Let it cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Tips:
- If you prefer a firmer texture, you can sauté the zucchini longer to reduce excess moisture before baking.
- For extra flavor, add a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes or fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary.
- You can add other vegetables like mushrooms, eggplant, or summer squash to customize this casserole.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- This casserole is a healthy way to enjoy vegetables with a cheesy twist.
- It’s a great make-ahead dish—prepare it the night before and bake it when ready to serve.
- Low in calories but rich in flavor, making it a perfect side or light main course.
- Packed with vitamins and minerals from the variety of vegetables!
Conclusion:
This Zucchini and Vegetable Casserole is a delightful combination of fresh vegetables, aromatic herbs, and melted cheese. It’s an easy and nutritious dish that can be enjoyed by everyone, making it perfect for any occasion. Whether served as a side dish or a main, it’s bound to become a family favorite.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use other vegetables in this casserole?
Yes! Feel free to add other vegetables like eggplant, mushrooms, or yellow squash. - Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare it the day before, cover it, and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. - Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, just make sure your cheese and any seasonings or breadcrumbs are gluten-free. - How can I make this casserole vegan?
You can replace the cheese with dairy-free alternatives like vegan mozzarella or nutritional yeast. - What can I serve this casserole with?
It pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, roasted meats, or a fresh side salad. - How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. - Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, you can freeze it for up to 2 months. Just make sure to let it cool completely before freezing. - Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes, this casserole is great for meal prepping and can be stored in individual servings. - Can I use frozen zucchini?
While fresh zucchini is ideal for this recipe, you can use frozen zucchini. Just make sure to thaw and drain excess moisture. - What can I substitute for Parmesan cheese?
You can use a dairy-free cheese, nutritional yeast, or simply skip it if you prefer.