This layered zucchini bake combines fresh zucchini with a medley of herbs and spices, creating a delicious and healthy dish perfect for any meal. Below is a step-by-step recipe to guide you through the process.
Ingredients
- Zucchini: 4 medium-sized (about 2 pounds)
- Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons, plus more for drizzling
- Kosher Salt: 1 teaspoon
- Black Pepper: ½ teaspoon
- Garlic Powder: ½ teaspoon
- Italian Seasoning: 1 teaspoon (or Herbs de Provence for a different flavor)
- Red Chili Flakes: ¼ teaspoon (optional, for heat)
- Parmesan Cheese: ½ cup, grated (for layering and topping)
- Fresh Herbs: A handful of parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (204°C). This temperature is ideal for roasting zucchini to achieve a tender yet slightly crisp texture.
- Prepare the Zucchini:
- Wash and slice the zucchini into thin rounds (about ¼ inch thick). You can also slice them lengthwise for a different presentation.
- In a large bowl, toss the zucchini slices with olive oil, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and red chili flakes until evenly coated.
- Layer the Zucchini:
- Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil.
- Begin layering the zucchini slices in the dish. You can alternate layers with some grated Parmesan cheese to enhance flavor. Continue layering until all the zucchini is used.
- Add Cheese Topping:
- Once layered, sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese over the top of the zucchini.
- Bake:
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes.
- After 20 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool slightly. Garnish with fresh herbs before serving.
This layered zucchini bake is not only visually appealing but also packed with flavors from the herbs and spices. It serves well as a side dish or even as a main vegetarian option. Enjoy your delicious creation!
What Other Herbs Can I Use Instead of Italian Seasoning?
If you don’t have Italian seasoning on hand, there are several alternatives you can use to achieve similar flavors in your dishes:
- Homemade Blend: Combine dried oregano, basil, thyme, marjoram, and sage for a fresh mix.
- Single Dried Herbs: Use individual herbs such as oregano, basil, or thyme. For example, 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning can be replaced with ½ teaspoon of dried oregano and ½ teaspoon of dried basil.
- Herbes de Provence: This blend includes many herbs found in Italian seasoning and can be used as a direct substitute, although it may add a slightly different flavor profile due to the inclusion of lavender.
- Greek Seasoning: Similar to Italian seasoning, Greek seasoning often contains oregano as its primary herb and can work well in Mediterranean dishes.
Can I Use This Recipe for Other Types of Summer Squash?
Yes, this recipe can easily be adapted for other types of summer squash such as yellow squash or pattypan squash. The cooking times may vary slightly based on the thickness and moisture content of the squash you choose. Just ensure the squash is sliced evenly to promote uniform cooking.
How Can I Make the Dish More Substantial for a Main Course?
To transform this zucchini bake into a more substantial main course, consider the following additions:
- Protein: Add cooked ground meat (like turkey or beef), shredded chicken, or plant-based protein (such as lentils or chickpeas) between the layers.
- Grains: Incorporate cooked quinoa, rice, or couscous into the layers for added texture and nutrition.
- Cheese Variations: Use a combination of cheeses like mozzarella or ricotta along with Parmesan to enhance creaminess and flavor.
- Vegetables: Mix in other vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach to increase the volume and nutritional value.
What’s the Best Way to Prevent the Zucchini from Becoming Soggy?
To prevent zucchini from becoming soggy during baking:
- Salt and Drain: Sprinkle salt on the zucchini slices before assembling the dish. Let them sit for about 30 minutes to draw out excess moisture, then pat them dry with paper towels.
- High Heat Cooking: Bake at a higher temperature (around 400°F) to quickly evaporate moisture.
- Layering Technique: Avoid overcrowding the layers; spread them out evenly to allow steam to escape.
Can I Substitute Parmesan Cheese with Another Type of Cheese?
Yes, you can substitute Parmesan cheese with several alternatives depending on your taste preference:
- Pecorino Romano: Offers a sharper flavor than Parmesan and works well in baked dishes.
- Mozzarella: Provides a creamy texture and melts beautifully; consider using part-skim for less fat.
- Feta Cheese: Adds a tangy flavor that complements zucchini nicely; crumble it over the top before baking.
- Nutritional Yeast: For a dairy-free option, nutritional yeast can provide a cheesy flavor without using cheese at all.
