Parmesan Tomato Zucchini Bake

Introduction

Parmesan Tomato Zucchini Bake is a simple, healthy, and flavorful dish that brings together fresh zucchini, yellow squash, and juicy tomatoes. This dish is topped with savory Parmesan cheese and seasoned with garlic, onion powder, and Italian spices, making it the perfect side for any meal. The vegetables bake to tender perfection, with the cheese melting into a delicious golden topping. It’s an easy-to-prepare recipe that’s perfect for summer when zucchini and tomatoes are at their peak.

Ingredients:

• 2 medium zucchini, sliced
• 2 medium yellow squash, sliced
• 5 medium tomatoes, sliced
• ½ cup quality Parmesan cheese, shredded
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ¾ teaspoon garlic powder
• ¾ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon Italian spices
• Optional: salt to taste

Directions:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Step 2: Arrange the Vegetables

1. In a baking dish, arrange the sliced zucchini, sliced yellow squash, and sliced tomatoes in an alternating pattern, creating a beautiful layered effect. Try to keep the slices standing up slightly for a more elegant presentation.

Step 3: Add Cheese and Seasoning

1. Sprinkle ½ cup shredded Parmesan cheese evenly over the vegetables.
2. Season the dish with ½ teaspoon black pepper, ¾ teaspoon garlic powder, ¾ teaspoon onion powder, and ½ teaspoon Italian spices.
3. If desired, sprinkle some salt to taste, especially if your Parmesan cheese isn’t too salty.

Step 4: Bake the Dish

1. Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the zucchini and yellow squash are tender and the Parmesan cheese is golden and bubbly.

Step 5: Serve

1. Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and serve hot.
2. Garnish with fresh herbs like basil or parsley for extra flavor if desired.

Cooking Notes:

• Vegetable Slicing: Make sure to slice the zucchini, squash, and tomatoes evenly to ensure uniform cooking. A mandoline slicer can help achieve perfect, thin slices.
• Cheese Option: For a different flavor, you can substitute the Parmesan with shredded mozzarella or Pecorino Romano.
• Spice Variations: Feel free to add other herbs and spices, such as thyme, basil, or red pepper flakes, to customize the flavor.

Serving Suggestions:

• As a Side Dish: Serve this baked vegetable dish alongside grilled chicken, steak, or fish for a healthy and balanced meal.
• As a Main Dish: For a light vegetarian meal, enjoy it with a side of crusty bread or a simple green salad.

Tips:

• Make Ahead: You can prepare this dish ahead of time by slicing the vegetables and arranging them in the baking dish. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake.
• Leftovers: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave.

Prep Time:

• 10 minutes

Cooking Time:

• 25-30 minutes

Total Time:

• 35-40 minutes

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):

• Calories: 120 kcal
• Protein: 6g
• Sodium: 230mg

Conclusion

This Parmesan Tomato Zucchini Bake is a vibrant and flavorful dish that celebrates fresh summer produce. It’s easy to prepare, making it a go-to recipe for weeknight dinners or a simple, elegant side for entertaining. With minimal ingredients and big flavors, this dish is perfect for showcasing the natural goodness of zucchini, yellow squash, and tomatoes. Enjoy it fresh from the oven with family and friends!