Imagine a dish that transforms ordinary vegetables into a mouthwatering masterpiece that will have your family begging for seconds! This Garlic Parmesan Zucchini and Tomato Bake is not just another side dish – it's a culinary adventure that combines the fresh, vibrant flavors of zucchini and cherry tomatoes with the rich, savory goodness of Parmesan cheese and aromatic garlic. Perfect for busy weeknights or impressive dinner parties, this recipe promises to elevate your cooking game and tantalize your taste buds with minimal effort and maximum flavor.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 medium zucchinis, sliced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C). Prepare a 9x13 inch baking dish by lightly greasing it with olive oil or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Wash the zucchinis and cherry tomatoes thoroughly under cool running water. Pat them dry with clean paper towels to remove excess moisture.
- Slice the zucchinis into thin, uniform rounds approximately 1/4 inch thick. This ensures even cooking and consistent texture.
- Halve the cherry tomatoes, cutting them from stem to bottom to create two equal halves.
- Peel and finely mince the garlic cloves. For best flavor, use fresh garlic and chop it as finely as possible.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced zucchini, halved cherry tomatoes, minced garlic, olive oil, dried Italian herbs, salt, and pepper. Gently toss to ensure all ingredients are evenly coated.
- Transfer the vegetable mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it out in an even layer to promote uniform cooking.
- Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top of the vegetables, ensuring complete coverage.
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the zucchini is tender and the cheese is golden brown and slightly crispy.
- Remove from the oven and let the dish rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and helps the dish set.
- Serve hot as a delicious side dish or light main course, garnishing with fresh herbs like basil or parsley if desired.
Tips
- Slice Uniformly: Use a sharp knife or mandoline to create even zucchini slices, ensuring consistent cooking and a beautiful presentation.
- Remove Moisture: Pat zucchini and tomatoes dry before mixing to prevent a watery dish and help the vegetables roast instead of steam.
- Fresh Garlic is Key: Always use fresh garlic cloves and mince them finely to release maximum flavor.
- Don't Overcrowd: Spread vegetables in a single layer to allow proper caramelization and crispy edges.
- Cheese Tip: For extra flavor, use freshly grated Parmesan instead of pre-packaged cheese.
- Optional Enhancements: Add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick or fresh basil leaves after baking for a burst of freshness.
- Serving Suggestion: Serve immediately for the best texture and most vibrant flavors.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 120kcal
Carbohydrates: 6g
Protein: 5g
Fat: 9g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 10mg
