Summertime Zucchini & Tomato Casserole
Description
This delightful casserole hails from the beloved cookbook “What’s for Dinner?” and has been lovingly adapted to suit my family’s tastes, resulting in my all-time favorite way to enjoy zucchini. It makes for an exquisite side dish alongside grilled chicken or fish, and is equally satisfying when enjoyed on its own. The combination of fresh vegetables, aromatic herbs, and a cheesy topping creates a comforting dish that is perfect for summer meals.
Nutritional Information
| Nutritional Component | Amount per Serving (4 servings) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 373.7 |
| Total Fat | 19.3 g |
| Saturated Fat | 9.3 g |
| Cholesterol | 39.5 mg |
| Sodium | 844.4 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 37.6 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 7 g |
| Sugars | 8.9 g |
| Protein | 17.7 g |
Ingredients
| Quantity | Ingredient |
|---|---|
| 1 | Olive oil |
| 1/2 | Sweet onion |
| 1 | Garlic (minced) |
| 3 | Zucchini (sliced) |
| 8 | Roma tomatoes (sliced) |
| 1/2 | Fresh ground black pepper |
| 1/4 | Fresh dill (chopped) |
| 1 | Dried dill |
| 3 | Cheddar cheese (shredded) |
| 1 | Butter |
| 1 | Parmesan cheese (grated) |
| 2 | Bread crumbs |
| Salt (to taste) |
Instructions
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Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to a cozy 350°F (175°C) to ensure the perfect baking environment for your casserole.
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Prepare the Baking Dish: Lightly spray a 9-inch square baking pan with cooking spray to prevent the casserole from sticking, and set it aside for later use.
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Sauté the Aromatics: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat until shimmering. Once hot, add the chopped sweet onion, minced garlic, and sliced mushrooms, sautéing them together for about 3-4 minutes until they start to soften and release their fragrant aromas.
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Add the Zucchini: Incorporate the sliced zucchini into the skillet and continue to sauté for an additional 5 minutes. At this stage, the zucchini should become slightly tender but not overly soft, allowing for a delightful texture in the final dish.
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Season the Vegetables: Season the sautéed mixture with a sprinkle of salt, freshly ground black pepper, and fresh dill, stirring well to ensure that the flavors meld beautifully.
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Layer the Casserole: In the prepared baking pan, begin layering by placing half of the sautéed zucchini mixture at the bottom. Follow this with half of the sliced roma tomatoes, and sprinkle half of the shredded cheddar cheese over the top.
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Repeat the Layers: Next, add the remaining zucchini mixture over the first layer, followed by the rest of the sliced tomatoes. Finish with the remaining cheddar cheese, allowing the melty goodness to permeate the dish as it bakes.
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Prepare the Topping: In the same skillet used for the vegetables, melt the butter over low heat. Once melted, add the bread crumbs and toss them to ensure they are well-coated in the buttery goodness.
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Top the Casserole: Evenly sprinkle the buttered bread crumbs over the casserole, and then generously top with grated parmesan cheese, adding a delightful crust to the dish.
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Bake to Perfection: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and the top is beautifully golden and crusty, indicating that the flavors have melded perfectly.
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Serve and Enjoy: Once baked, allow the casserole to cool slightly before serving. The combination of tender vegetables and a crispy topping makes this dish not only delicious but also visually appealing. Enjoy it warm as a perfect accompaniment to grilled meats or simply savor it as a satisfying vegetarian main.
Conclusion
This Summertime Zucchini & Tomato Casserole is sure to become a cherished recipe in your household, bringing together fresh summer flavors and comforting textures. Whether enjoyed as a side or a standalone dish, it encapsulates the essence of summer cooking while providing a nutritious and delicious option for any meal. Enjoy the vibrant flavors and the joy of sharing this dish with family and friends!
