Courgette Stacks

Courgette Stacks: A Delightful Mediterranean Dish

Introduction:
Courgette stacks, also known as zucchini stacks, are a delightful Mediterranean dish that showcases the simple yet delicious flavors of fresh courgettes (zucchinis) combined with tomatoes, herbs, and cheese. This dish is not only visually appealing but also bursting with flavor, making it a perfect choice for both casual family dinners and formal gatherings. Let’s dive into the history, components, preparation steps, and time needed to create this culinary masterpiece.

History:
The history of courgette stacks is deeply rooted in Mediterranean cuisine, where vegetables take center stage in many dishes. While it’s challenging to pinpoint the exact origin of this dish, it can be traced back to the rich culinary traditions of countries like Italy, Greece, and Turkey. These regions have a long history of using fresh, locally sourced ingredients to create vibrant and flavorful dishes. Courgette stacks exemplify this tradition by bringing together simple, wholesome ingredients to create a harmonious and satisfying meal.

Components:

1. Courgettes (Zucchinis): The star of the dish, courgettes, are sliced into rounds and act as the base for the stacks.
2. Tomatoes: Fresh, ripe tomatoes provide a juicy and slightly tangy contrast to the courgettes.
3. Herbs: A combination of fresh basil, oregano, and parsley adds a burst of Mediterranean flavors.
4. Cheese: Grated Parmesan or mozzarella cheese adds a creamy, savory element to the dish.
5. Olive Oil: High-quality extra virgin olive oil is used for sautéing and drizzling.
6. Garlic: Minced garlic cloves infuse the dish with a subtle garlic flavor.
7. Salt and Pepper: These seasonings enhance the overall taste.

Preparation Steps:

Note: This recipe serves four people.

Step 1: Prepare the Courgettes

• Wash and trim the courgettes, then slice them into rounds, approximately 1/4 inch thick.
• Lay them out on paper towels to remove excess moisture.
• Season with salt and pepper.

Step 2: Sauté the Courgettes

• Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a drizzle of olive oil.
• Add the courgette rounds in a single layer and cook until they’re lightly browned on both sides, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Tomato Sauce

• In the same skillet, add more olive oil if needed.
• Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
• Add fresh tomatoes, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper.
• Cook the tomato sauce for about 10-15 minutes until it thickens slightly.

Step 4: Assemble the Stacks

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• In an ovenproof dish, begin by placing a courgette round, followed by a spoonful of tomato sauce, a sprinkle of grated cheese, and a few fresh parsley leaves.
• Repeat this layering process until you have a stack of 3-4 courgette rounds.
• Top the stack with more tomato sauce and cheese.
• Repeat this process for the remaining courgette rounds.

Step 5: Bake

• Place the assembled stacks in the preheated oven and bake for about 20 minutes or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.

Step 6: Serve

• Once done, remove the courgette stacks from the oven.
• Serve them hot, garnished with fresh basil or parsley leaves and a drizzle of olive oil.

Time Needed:
Preparing courgette stacks typically takes around 45-60 minutes, including preparation and cooking time. This dish is well worth the effort, as it offers a burst of Mediterranean flavors and a visually stunning presentation that will impress your guests or satisfy your family’s taste buds. Whether you’re aiming for a formal dinner or a casual meal, courgette stacks are a versatile and delicious choice.