Zucchini Parmigiana Recipe
Category: Main Course
Servings: 6
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Zucchini | 700g |
| Parmigiano Reggiano DOP | 60g |
| Mozzarella | 250g |
| All-purpose flour | as needed |
| Peanut oil (for frying) | as needed |
| Black pepper | as needed |
| Fresh basil | as needed |
| Tomato passata | 700g |
| Onion | ¼ (finely chopped) |
| Extra virgin olive oil | as needed |
| Salt (fine) | as needed |
Instructions:
Start by preparing the tomato sauce, which will be the base for this delicious Zucchini Parmigiana. In a large pan, pour a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and gently heat it over medium heat. Once the oil has warmed, add the finely chopped onion. Sauté it until it becomes soft and translucent, stirring occasionally to prevent it from burning. This will create a flavorful base for your sauce.
Next, pour the tomato passata into the pan, season it with a pinch of salt, and bring it to a gentle simmer. Let the sauce cook for about 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Once it has thickened slightly, remove from the heat and set it aside.
While the sauce is cooking, move on to the zucchini. Wash and trim the ends of the zucchinis. Slice them into rounds, about 1 cm thick. Lay the zucchini slices on a cutting board or a large plate, and lightly dust them with flour on both sides. This step helps to achieve a crispy exterior once fried.
In a separate large frying pan, heat the peanut oil over medium-high heat. To check if the oil is at the right temperature, dip a small piece of zucchini into the oil—if it sizzles immediately, it’s ready for frying. Fry the zucchini slices in small batches, ensuring that each slice is golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to remove the slices and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain the excess oil. If desired, season them lightly with salt while they’re still hot.
Once the frying is done, it’s time to assemble the Zucchini Parmigiana. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Start by spreading a thin layer of the tomato sauce in the bottom of a baking dish. Arrange the first layer of zucchini slices over the sauce, laying them slightly overlapping each other. Sprinkle a generous amount of grated Parmigiano Reggiano DOP on top, followed by cubes of mozzarella and a sprinkle of black pepper. Repeat the layering process, this time arranging the zucchini slices horizontally, covering them with another layer of sauce, mozzarella cubes, and Parmigiano cheese. Finish with a final layer of zucchini slices placed vertically in the dish. Top it off with any remaining tomato sauce and the rest of the mozzarella cubes.
Sprinkle a little more grated Parmigiano on top, season with a final pinch of black pepper, and add a few fresh basil leaves for a burst of flavor and color. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly, and the zucchini is tender.
Once it’s ready, remove the Zucchini Parmigiana from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes before serving. This dish is perfect as a main course, served with a side of crusty bread or a fresh green salad. The combination of crispy fried zucchini, savory tomato sauce, melty mozzarella, and the rich flavor of Parmigiano Reggiano makes for an unforgettable meal that will delight your taste buds!
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 350 kcal |
| Protein | 15g |
| Carbohydrates | 25g |
| Fat | 22g |
| Fiber | 4g |
| Sodium | 500mg |
| Sugars | 9g |
This Zucchini Parmigiana is a wonderful way to enjoy a classic Italian dish with a twist. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner, a holiday gathering, or a casual meal with friends, it is sure to be a hit. The crispy zucchini slices, combined with the rich tomato sauce and gooey mozzarella, create a flavor profile that’s both satisfying and comforting. Add fresh basil for a fragrant finish, and your Zucchini Parmigiana will be a dish everyone will want to have again and again!
Tips for Success:
- For an extra crispy texture, you can double-fry the zucchini slices: fry once to cook through, and then again for an extra crispy exterior.
- If you prefer a lighter version of this dish, you can bake the zucchini slices instead of frying them.
- Feel free to add other herbs, such as oregano or thyme, to the tomato sauce for additional flavor.
Enjoy this delicious Zucchini Parmigiana as the centerpiece of your next meal, and savor every bite of its comforting, savory goodness!
