Zucchini Parmesan

Zucchini Parmigiana – A Vegetarian Delight

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Number of servings: 4

If you are looking for a delicious and healthy recipe, zucchini parmigiana is the perfect choice. This recipe combines the rich flavors of fresh vegetables with creamy and crunchy textures, offering a dish that will delight both vegetarians and meat lovers. Throughout history, parmigiana has evolved over the years, becoming a symbol of healthy and flavorful cuisine. Get ready to bring a touch of sunshine to your plate!

Ingredients:

- 3 medium zucchinis (preferably green or yellow for variety)
- 3-4 lasagna sheets (choose whole grain for extra fiber)
- 200 g mild cheese (or mozzarella if you prefer a more elastic texture)
- 50 g grated parmesan (for added flavor)
- 4 ripe tomatoes (you can also use cherry tomatoes for a more colorful presentation)
- White flour (about 100 g, for dusting the zucchinis)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- Marjoram (fresh or dried, for a flavorful touch)

Preparation Steps:

1. Preparing the Zucchinis:
Start by washing the zucchinis well. Slice them thinly lengthwise (about 5 mm thick). This will allow the zucchinis to cook evenly and achieve a pleasant texture. If desired, you can remove any larger seeds to get finer slices.

2. Dusting with Flour:
In a deep bowl, put the flour and a pinch of salt. Dipping each zucchini slice in flour will give you a lightly crispy and delicious crust after frying. Make sure to shake off the excess flour well.

3. Frying the Zucchinis:
In a deep skillet, heat vegetable oil (you can use olive oil for a more intense flavor) and fry the zucchinis for 4-5 minutes, until golden and tender. Remove them onto a paper towel to absorb the excess oil.

4. Preparing the Tomatoes:
Slice the tomatoes thinly. They will add juiciness to the dish and balance the flavor.

5. Boiling the Lasagna Sheets:
In a large pot, bring water to a boil and add a pinch of salt. Boil the lasagna sheets for one minute or according to package instructions. Then, carefully drain them and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process.

6. Assembling the Parmigiana:
Preheat the oven to 150°C. In a baking dish lined with parchment paper, arrange a layer of lasagna sheet. Continue with a layer of fried zucchinis, followed by slices of tomatoes and a layer of grated cheese. Repeat this process until the ingredients are finished, ensuring that the last layer is lasagna. Finally, sprinkle cheese, parmesan, tomato slices, and a few marjoram leaves on top.

7. Baking:
Place the dish in the preheated oven and let it bake for 30 minutes or until the top becomes golden and crispy. The flavors will meld together, and the zucchinis will achieve the perfect texture.

8. Serving:
After removing it from the oven, let the parmigiana rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This will help set the layers and make portioning easier. Serve with a fresh green salad or a side of basmati rice for a pleasant contrast.

Practical Tips:

- Ingredient Variations: You can also add other vegetables, such as eggplant or bell peppers, to diversify the recipe. Additionally, you can experiment with different types of cheese, such as feta or brie, for a unique flavor.
- Calories and Nutritional Benefits: This recipe is rich in vitamins, minerals, and fiber due to the fresh vegetables. Additionally, the cheese and parmesan provide protein and calcium, essential for a balanced diet. One serving of zucchini parmigiana contains approximately 350-400 calories, depending on the exact quantities used.
- Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use frozen zucchinis? It is recommended to use fresh zucchinis for the best texture and flavor.
- How can I make the recipe even more diet-friendly? You can reduce the amount of cheese or use low-fat cheese. Additionally, you can skip frying the zucchinis and bake them directly in the oven for a healthier dish.

Serving Suggestions: This dish pairs wonderfully with a glass of dry white wine or fresh lemonade. You can also add some toasted bread croutons for extra crunch.

I wish you great success in preparing this delicious zucchini parmigiana! Every bite will bring a smile to the faces of your loved ones, and you will receive compliments for your cooking skills. Enjoy your meal!