Baked zucchini

Oven-baked zucchini with tomatoes and cheese

Welcome to the culinary world full of flavors and colors! Today, I invite you to discover a recipe for oven-baked zucchini, perfect for celebrating the season of fresh vegetables. This recipe is not only simple but also delicious, offering you a harmonious combination of zucchini, tomatoes, cheese, and a splash of sour cream. Start our culinary journey and get ready to fall in love with this dish!

Total time: 1 hour (20 minutes preparation, 40 minutes baking)
Number of servings: 4

Ingredients:
- 5 ripe tomatoes
- 3 medium zucchinis
- 3 eggs
- 200 g salty cheese (preferably sheep cheese or feta)
- 100 g sour cream
- 1 bunch of green onions
- Spices to taste (salt, pepper, oregano, basil, etc.)
- Oil for greasing the pan

Brief history of the recipe:
Oven-baked zucchini is a classic recipe found in many kitchens, with deep roots in culinary traditions. They are extremely versatile and can be combined with various ingredients, making them a perfect choice for a healthy lunch or a light dinner. In many cultures, zucchinis are seasonal, and this recipe combines the sweetness of tomatoes with the fine texture of zucchinis, making them an ideal choice to celebrate the season of fresh vegetables.

Step-by-step preparation:

1. Preparing the ingredients:
Start by washing the zucchinis and tomatoes well. Make sure to choose young zucchinis, which have a finer texture and sweeter taste. Cut the zucchinis into thin slices, about 0.5 cm thick. You can cut the tomatoes into similar slices for even baking.

2. Seasoning:
In a bowl, beat the 3 eggs with the sour cream, adding a little salt and pepper to taste. If you want to add extra flavor, you can include dried herbs like oregano or basil. This will become the "sauce" that binds all the ingredients together.

3. Assembling the dish:
Grease a baking dish with a little oil. Arrange the slices of zucchinis and tomatoes alternately, creating a beautiful and colorful layout. Add finely chopped green onions and grated cheese between the layers, so that every bite is full of flavor.

4. Baking:
Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Place the dish in the oven and let it bake for 40 minutes. It is important to check occasionally to ensure the vegetables do not burn. The golden color of the zucchinis and tomatoes will be a sign that the dish is ready.

5. Finishing:
After 40 minutes, remove the dish from the oven and pour the egg and sour cream mixture over the top. Put the dish back in the oven for another 10-15 minutes, until the eggs are fully cooked and have formed a nice crust.

Practical tips:
- Vegetarian option: You can also add other vegetables, such as bell peppers or eggplants, to diversify the dish.
- For a more intense flavor: Add crushed garlic to the egg mixture or sprinkle a little parmesan on top before baking.
- Serving: This dish is served warm, alongside a fresh green salad or toasted bread, to complete the meal. It is also perfect for a picnic or a brunch with friends.

Nutritional information:
This oven-baked zucchini recipe is not only delicious but also healthy. Zucchinis are rich in water and fiber, making them an excellent choice for a balanced diet. Tomatoes provide a significant amount of antioxidants, especially lycopene, which is known for its heart health benefits. Additionally, cheese and sour cream offer essential proteins and calcium.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use frozen zucchinis?: While it is recommended to use fresh zucchinis, you can also use frozen zucchinis. Make sure to thaw and drain them well before use.
- What other spices would go well?: You can experiment with spices like cumin, paprika, or even chili flakes for a spicy taste.
- How to store leftovers?: The dish keeps well in the fridge for 2-3 days. Reheat it in the oven to regain its crispy texture.

Ideal pairings:
This oven-baked zucchini dish pairs perfectly with a glass of dry white wine or fresh lemonade. It can also be served alongside a portion of rice or quinoa for a more substantial lunch.

In conclusion, the recipe for oven-baked zucchini with tomatoes and cheese is not only simple and quick but also very versatile. Whether you prepare it for a family dinner or a festive meal, it will surely impress. So, don’t hesitate, gather the ingredients, and enjoy a delicious and healthy meal! Bon appétit!