Imagine a dish that combines the vibrant freshness of summer vegetables with a crispy, golden-brown crust that will make your taste buds dance with joy! This Zucchini and Tomato Gratin is not just a side dish – it's a culinary masterpiece that brings the rustic elegance of French cuisine right to your dining table. Whether you're looking to impress dinner guests or simply elevate your weeknight meal, this recipe promises to be a game-changer that transforms humble vegetables into an extraordinary dining experience.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: French
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 medium zucchinis, sliced
- 2 medium tomatoes, sliced
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare a rectangular baking dish by lightly greasing it with olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Wash the zucchinis and tomatoes thoroughly. Using a sharp knife, slice them into uniform, thin rounds approximately 1/4 inch thick. This ensures even cooking and an attractive presentation.
- Alternate and layer the zucchini and tomato slices in the baking dish, slightly overlapping them in a decorative, slightly diagonal pattern to create visual appeal.
- Drizzle the olive oil evenly over the vegetable layers. Sprinkle salt and freshly ground black pepper across the surface to enhance the natural flavors of the vegetables.
- In a separate bowl, mix the breadcrumbs and grated cheese. Combine them thoroughly to create a uniform topping mixture.
- Evenly distribute the breadcrumb and cheese mixture over the layered vegetables, ensuring complete coverage to create a crispy, golden-brown crust.
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top turns golden brown and the vegetables are tender when pierced with a fork.
- Remove from the oven and let the gratin rest for 5-10 minutes. This allows the dish to set and makes serving easier.
- Serve warm as a side dish or light vegetarian main course, garnished with fresh herbs like basil or parsley if desired.
Tips
- Slice with Precision: Use a sharp knife or mandoline to create uniform vegetable slices, ensuring even cooking and a beautiful presentation.
- Season Generously: Don't be shy with salt and pepper – they bring out the natural flavors of the zucchini and tomatoes.
- Choose Quality Ingredients: Use fresh, ripe tomatoes and zucchinis for the best flavor and texture.
- Cheese Matters: Experiment with different cheeses like Gruyère or Parmesan for varied flavor profiles.
- Watch the Browning: Keep an eye on the gratin in the last 5-10 minutes of baking to prevent burning while achieving that perfect golden crust.
- Let It Rest: Allowing the gratin to sit for 5-10 minutes after baking helps it set and makes serving much easier.
- Serve Immediately: This dish is best enjoyed warm, straight from the oven, when the crust is at its crispiest and the vegetables are tender.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 180kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 6g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 10mg