Description
If you’re looking for a comforting yet healthy meal, this Summer Garden Zucchini Casserole is the perfect option. Packed with fresh garden vegetables, rich seasonings, and a delicious layer of melted cheese, this casserole offers the best of summer’s bounty in every bite. Whether you’re serving it as a side dish or making it the main course, it’s a dish that will impress everyone at the table.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 medium zucchini, peeled and cut into cubes
- Salt, to taste
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 sweet green peppers, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, chopped
- 3 medium tomatoes, diced
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon dried basil
- 100 grams (3.5 oz) cheese, grated (cheddar, mozzarella, or your choice)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sweet green peppers. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until they become soft and fragrant.
- Add the garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes, stirring to release the flavors.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, black pepper, paprika, and dried basil. Let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.
- In a large casserole dish, combine the sautéed vegetables with the zucchini cubes and season with salt to taste. Mix everything together until well combined.
- Sprinkle the grated cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the zucchini is tender and the cheese has melted and is golden.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before serving, and enjoy!
Notes
- You can prepare this casserole ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator overnight. Simply bake it when ready to serve.
- Feel free to substitute the cheese with a dairy-free alternative to make it vegan-friendly.
- For a heartier meal, add cooked chicken, turkey, or quinoa to the casserole.
- Frozen zucchini can be used if fresh zucchini is unavailable, but be sure to thaw and drain it before adding to the dish.
- You can freeze the casserole for future meals. Just make sure it cools completely before freezing.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean-inspired