Imagine a side dish so irresistible that it turns ordinary summer squash into a gourmet masterpiece that will have your family and friends begging for seconds! This Baked Summer Squash with Cheese is not just a recipe; it's a culinary adventure that combines the fresh, tender goodness of summer squash with a luxurious, melted cheese blanket that will elevate your dinner table from mundane to magnificent.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 medium summer squashes, sliced
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure that the oven is hot enough to properly bake the squash.
- Wash the summer squashes thoroughly under running water to remove any dirt. Cut off the ends and slice them into 1/4-inch thick rounds.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced summer squash with 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Toss the squash until all pieces are evenly coated with the oil.
- Add salt, pepper, and 1 teaspoon of dried oregano to the bowl. Mix well to ensure that the seasonings are distributed evenly throughout the squash.
- In a greased baking dish, arrange the seasoned summer squash slices in a single layer. This will allow them to cook evenly and develop a nice texture.
- Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of the squash. Make sure to cover the squash well, as the cheese will melt and create a delicious topping.
- Next, sprinkle 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese over the mozzarella layer. The Parmesan will add a nice depth of flavor and a crispy texture as it bakes.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to prevent the cheese from browning too quickly. This will allow the squash to cook through without burning the cheese.
- Place the covered baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes. This will help soften the squash and melt the cheese.
- After 20 minutes, carefully remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Once done, remove the baking dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This will allow the flavors to settle and make it easier to serve.
- Serve the baked summer squash warm, garnished with additional dried oregano or fresh herbs if desired. Enjoy your delicious Italian-inspired dish!
Tips
- Choose fresh, firm summer squashes with smooth, unblemished skin for the best texture and flavor.
- Slice squashes uniformly to ensure even cooking and a professional presentation.
- Don't skip the olive oil coating - it helps the seasonings stick and promotes beautiful caramelization.
- For extra flavor, consider adding a sprinkle of garlic powder or red pepper flakes to the seasoning mix.
- Use freshly grated cheese whenever possible, as it melts more smoothly and provides a more robust flavor.
- Watch the cheese carefully in the final 10 minutes of baking to prevent burning while achieving that perfect golden-brown color.
- Let the dish rest for a few minutes after baking to allow the flavors to meld and the cheese to set slightly.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 182kcal
Carbohydrates: 4g
Protein: 12g
Fat: 13g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 31mg
