Gratinated Zucchini

Gratinated Zucchini: A Savory Recipe for Unforgettable Moments

Gratinated zucchini is an excellent choice for a delicious lunch or a simple yet impressive dinner. This recipe is not only easy to make but also full of flavors and textures that will delight your taste buds. With a perfect combination of cheese, cream, and tender zucchini, this dish quickly becomes a family favorite. Let’s embark on this delightful cooking adventure together!

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients:

- 1 large zucchini, washed and peeled (approximately 500 g)
- 200 g feta cheese (preferably goat or cow)
- 200 g grated cheese
- 2 large eggs
- 200 ml cooking cream
- 6 tablespoons breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- salt
- freshly ground pepper

A Bit of History and Nutritional Benefits

Zucchini are versatile vegetables, rich in nutrients, that have been used throughout time in various culinary cultures. They are low in calories but high in vitamins, such as vitamin C and A, as well as minerals like potassium and magnesium. Zucchini are also an excellent source of fiber, contributing to healthy digestion. Therefore, this recipe not only satisfies hunger but also provides health benefits.

Step by Step: Preparing Gratinated Zucchini

Step 1: Preparing the Zucchini
Start by washing and peeling the zucchini. Use a sharp knife to cut it into thick slices of about 0.5 cm. These slices will absorb the flavors more easily and cook evenly.

Step 2: Boiling the Zucchini
In a pot, add water and a teaspoon of salt. Place the pot on the stove over high heat and wait for it to boil. Once the water starts boiling, add the zucchini slices and let them boil for 5 minutes. This step will help soften the zucchini and intensify the flavors. After 5 minutes, drain the zucchini well.

Step 3: Preparing the Cheese Mixture
Meanwhile, in a large bowl, beat the two eggs with a whisk or fork until frothy. Add the crumbled feta cheese and the cooking cream. Mix well, then add 100 g of the grated cheese. Season with a little salt (being careful, as the cheese is already salty) and freshly ground pepper. Blend the mixture until you obtain a uniform composition.

Step 4: Preparing the Baking Dish
Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Take a heat-resistant dish measuring 25x15 cm and grease it with the 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Evenly sprinkle 3 tablespoons of breadcrumbs on the bottom and sides of the dish, ensuring they stick well. This step will help achieve a crispy crust.

Step 5: Assembling the Dish
Arrange the zucchini slices in an even layer in the dish. Sprinkle the remaining 3 tablespoons of breadcrumbs over the zucchini. Then, pour the mixture of eggs, cheese, and cream, leveling it evenly. Finally, sprinkle the remaining 100 g of grated cheese on top of this delicious dish.

Step 6: Baking
Place the dish in the preheated oven and let it bake for about 30 minutes, or until the cheese on top turns golden and delicious. The aroma that will spread throughout the house is simply irresistible!

Step 7: Serving
When the gratinated zucchini are ready, take them out of the oven and let them cool slightly. Serve them warm, accompanied by a garlic sauce or a fresh salad. This dish can be served as a main course or as a side dish alongside roasted meat.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

For an extra flavor boost, you can add some fresh herbs to the cheese mixture, such as dill or basil. You can also experiment with different types of cheese, such as feta or mozzarella, for a different texture.

Gratinated zucchini pairs wonderfully with a glass of dry white wine or fresh lemonade, depending on your preferences. This is an ideal recipe to share with friends at a festive meal or simply to indulge after a long day.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use frozen zucchini?
It is recommended to use fresh zucchini, but if you don't have access to them, frozen zucchini can be an option. Make sure to thaw and drain them well before use.

2. How can I make the recipe easier?
For a quick version, you can skip boiling the zucchini and use them directly in the recipe. In this case, you might need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

3. What other vegetables can I use?
This recipe is versatile, and other vegetables such as eggplant or potatoes can be used instead of zucchini, offering a new dimension of flavor.

In conclusion, gratinated zucchini is a simple yet flavorful recipe that can be customized to your tastes. With accessible ingredients and an easy-to-follow process, this dish will surely become a part of your culinary repertoire! Enjoy every bite and share the recipe with your loved ones!