To prepare a delicious dish with zucchini and tomato sauce, we will start by peeling the zucchinis. Slice them thinly, ensuring they are uniform for even cooking. In a deep skillet, heat the oil, preferably olive oil, over medium heat. Add the zucchini slices and fry them until they become golden and crispy, turning them carefully to avoid burning. Those who prefer a richer taste can dust the slices with flour before frying, but I personally chose to prepare them plain, thus preserving the natural flavor of the zucchini.
Meanwhile, prepare the tomato sauce. Take the peeled tomatoes (you can use fresh or canned tomatoes, according to preference) and place them in a saucepan. Add a pinch of salt and let them simmer on low heat. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Once the sauce has reduced slightly and has a pleasant consistency, add the finely chopped parsley and basil, giving it an irresistible aroma.
Now, we are ready to assemble the dish. In a baking dish, start by adding a thin layer of tomato sauce, which will create a moist base. Then, place a layer of fried zucchini, followed by slices of fresh mozzarella. Repeat these layers, alternating zucchini, tomato sauce, and mozzarella until the ingredients are used up. The last layer should consist of zucchini, over which you sprinkle grated parmesan to achieve a delicious golden crust.
After you have finished assembling, place the dish in the preheated oven at a medium to high temperature, about 180-200 degrees Celsius. Bake the dish for 25-30 minutes or until you see that the cheese has melted and a delicious crust has formed on top. Once ready, remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for 10-20 minutes, depending on its size. This step is essential as it allows the flavors to meld and makes slicing much easier.
Finally, cut the portions and serve the dish warm, enjoying the savory combination of zucchini, tomatoes, and cheese. It is a versatile dish, perfect for both lunch and dinner, and will surely be appreciated by all loved ones. Enjoy your meal!
Meanwhile, prepare the tomato sauce. Take the peeled tomatoes (you can use fresh or canned tomatoes, according to preference) and place them in a saucepan. Add a pinch of salt and let them simmer on low heat. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Once the sauce has reduced slightly and has a pleasant consistency, add the finely chopped parsley and basil, giving it an irresistible aroma.
Now, we are ready to assemble the dish. In a baking dish, start by adding a thin layer of tomato sauce, which will create a moist base. Then, place a layer of fried zucchini, followed by slices of fresh mozzarella. Repeat these layers, alternating zucchini, tomato sauce, and mozzarella until the ingredients are used up. The last layer should consist of zucchini, over which you sprinkle grated parmesan to achieve a delicious golden crust.
After you have finished assembling, place the dish in the preheated oven at a medium to high temperature, about 180-200 degrees Celsius. Bake the dish for 25-30 minutes or until you see that the cheese has melted and a delicious crust has formed on top. Once ready, remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for 10-20 minutes, depending on its size. This step is essential as it allows the flavors to meld and makes slicing much easier.
Finally, cut the portions and serve the dish warm, enjoying the savory combination of zucchini, tomatoes, and cheese. It is a versatile dish, perfect for both lunch and dinner, and will surely be appreciated by all loved ones. Enjoy your meal!
Ingredients
zucchini sliced lengthwise, very thin, mozzarella, grated parmesan, peeled tomatoes, oil, salt, parsley, basil