Are you tired of boring vegetable dishes that make you want to push your plate away? Get ready to revolutionize your dinner table with this incredible Zucchini Salsa Parmesan Bake that transforms humble zucchini into a crispy, cheesy masterpiece! Imagine tender zucchini slices bathed in zesty salsa, topped with a golden, crunchy Parmesan breadcrumb layer that will make your taste buds dance with joy. This recipe is so delicious, even veggie-skeptics will be coming back for seconds!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 medium zucchinis, sliced
- 1 cup salsa
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Wash the zucchinis thoroughly and slice them into uniform 1/4-inch thick rounds. Pat the zucchini slices dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps achieve a better texture.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced zucchini with salsa, ensuring each slice is evenly coated. The salsa will add moisture and flavor to the dish.
- In a separate bowl, mix the grated Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, salt, and pepper. This will create a flavorful and crunchy topping for the bake.
- Arrange the salsa-coated zucchini slices in a single layer in the prepared baking dish, ensuring they are evenly distributed.
- Sprinkle the Parmesan-breadcrumb mixture evenly over the zucchini slices, covering them completely.
- Drizzle the olive oil over the top of the breadcrumb layer to help it brown and crisp up during baking.
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the zucchini is tender and the top is golden brown and crispy.
- Remove from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the dish to set and makes it easier to portion.
- Serve hot as a side dish or light main course, garnished with fresh herbs like basil or parsley if desired.
Tips
- Moisture is Key: Always pat your zucchini slices dry with paper towels to prevent a soggy dish. Removing excess water ensures a crisp, appetizing texture.
- Uniform Slicing: Use a sharp knife or mandoline to create even 1/4-inch thick zucchini rounds. This guarantees consistent cooking and a professional look.
- Cheese Selection: Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and melting properties. Pre-grated cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect texture.
- Breadcrumb Boost: For extra crunch, consider using panko breadcrumbs or adding a small amount of Italian seasoning to your breadcrumb mixture.
- Serving Suggestion: Let the dish rest for 5 minutes after baking. This helps it set and makes portioning easier, preventing the zucchini from falling apart.
- Customization: Experiment with different salsas - from mild to spicy - to create unique flavor profiles each time you make this dish.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 12g
Fat: 17g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 25mg
