Delicious Tomato Zucchini Bake
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 6
Description: For years, I’ve been crafting a delightful tomato zucchini bake, and recently, I’ve added a few new ingredients that have elevated its flavor profile. This dish works beautifully as a hearty vegetarian meal, especially when topped with extra cheese. However, I usually serve it as a flavorful side dish that complements a variety of main courses. This recipe is not only easy but also quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or a casual family dinner.
Category: Vegetable
Keywords: < 60 Mins, Easy
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon fresh ground pepper
- A few dashes Tabasco sauce (adjust to taste)
- 1 to 2 medium zucchini, sliced
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
Instructions
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Heat the Oil: Begin by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. The oil should be shimmering but not smoking.
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Sauté the Vegetables: Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté until the onion is translucent and the garlic is fragrant, but be careful not to let them brown, which can impart a bitter taste.
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Add Basil: Stir in the dried basil and cook for an additional minute. The basil will infuse the oil with its aromatic flavor, creating a delicious base for the dish.
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Combine Ingredients: Mix the onion and garlic mixture with the diced tomatoes. Stir in the cracker pieces, fresh ground pepper, and a few dashes of Tabasco sauce for a touch of heat. Adjust the amount of Tabasco according to your preference for spiciness.
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Layer the Bake: In a baking dish, start by layering the tomato mixture with the zucchini slices. Begin with a layer of the tomato mixture, then arrange a layer of zucchini slices on top. Repeat the layers, ensuring that you end with a layer of the tomato mixture.
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Add Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top layer. The cheese will melt into a gooey, golden topping as it bakes.
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Bake: Place the dish in a preheated oven at 325°F (163°C). Bake for 30 to 40 minutes, or until the dish is bubbly and the zucchini is tender. The cheese should be melted and slightly browned.
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Serve: Allow the bake to cool for a few minutes before serving. This dish is excellent both warm and at room temperature.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 107.3
- Fat: 5.7 g
- Saturated Fat: 2.4 g
- Cholesterol: 9.9 mg
- Sodium: 350.4 mg
- Carbohydrates: 11.7 g
- Fiber: 2.7 g
- Sugar: 6.3 g
- Protein: 4.3 g
Enjoy this scrumptious Tomato Zucchini Bake as a satisfying addition to any meal. Its blend of flavors and textures will surely delight your taste buds and those of your loved ones. 🍅🥒🧀
