Are you ready to indulge in a vibrant, mouth-watering dish that’s not only delicious but also packed with wholesome goodness? This Vegan Tomato Zucchini Casserole is the perfect combination of fresh vegetables, aromatic herbs, and a hint of Italian flair that will leave your taste buds dancing! Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or simply looking to add more plant-based meals to your repertoire, this casserole is sure to become a family favorite. With just a handful of ingredients and a little bit of time, you can create a comforting, satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Let’s dive into the recipe that will make your kitchen smell heavenly!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 40 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 zucchinis, sliced
- 3 tomatoes, sliced
- 1 onion, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup nutritional yeast (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure that your casserole cooks evenly and thoroughly.
- Prepare your vegetables by washing the zucchinis and tomatoes. Slice the zucchinis into thin rounds, and slice the tomatoes into similar thickness. Also, slice the onion into thin rings and mince the garlic cloves.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced zucchinis, sliced tomatoes, sliced onion, and minced garlic. Toss them gently to mix.
- Add the dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and pepper to the vegetable mixture. If you are using nutritional yeast, add it now as well. Stir everything together until the vegetables are evenly coated with the herbs and seasonings.
- Lightly grease a baking dish with a little olive oil or cooking spray to prevent sticking. You can use a 9x9-inch dish or any similar size that will hold your vegetables.
- Layer the vegetable mixture into the prepared baking dish. You can arrange them in a neat pattern or simply spread them out evenly.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil. This will help to steam the vegetables and keep them moist during the initial cooking phase.
- Place the covered baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes. This allows the vegetables to soften and release their flavors.
- After 30 minutes, carefully remove the foil from the baking dish. This will allow the top of the casserole to brown slightly.
- Return the uncovered casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and the top is slightly golden.
- Once done, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This will allow the flavors to settle and make it easier to serve.
- Serve warm, either as a main dish or a side. Enjoy your delicious Vegan Tomato Zucchini Casserole!
Tips
- Choose Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor, use fresh, ripe tomatoes and firm zucchinis. Seasonal produce will enhance the overall taste of your casserole.
- Customize Your Herbs: Feel free to experiment with different herbs! Fresh basil or thyme can add a delightful twist to the traditional flavors.
- Layering is Key: When layering your vegetables, try to alternate colors and textures for a visually appealing dish that’s as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate.
- Don’t Skip the Foil: Covering the casserole with aluminum foil during the first part of baking helps steam the vegetables, ensuring they cook evenly and stay moist.
- Add Protein: If you want to make this dish heartier, consider adding some cooked lentils or chickpeas to the vegetable mixture for an extra boost of protein.
- Serve with a Side: This casserole pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or crusty bread, making it a complete meal that everyone will enjoy.
- Store Leftovers Properly: If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They can be reheated in the oven or microwave for a quick and tasty meal later on.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 61kcal
Carbohydrates: 11g
Protein: 4g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 0mg
