Zucchini gratin with mozzarella (Tour de France Recipe Eurosport 2013)

Name: Zucchini gratin with mozzarella (Tour de France Recipe Eurosport 2013) - Anuta C.
Ingredients: 1 zucchini; 150 g mozzarella; 5; 6 small tomatoes; a few sprigs of fresh parsley; 2 tablespoons of olive oil; salt; pepper

Savory - Zucchini gratin with mozzarella (Tour de France Recipe Eurosport 2013) by Anuta C. - Recipia

Gratinated Zucchini with Mozzarella – a simple and delicious recipe Preparation time: 15 minutes Baking time: 25-30 minutes Total: 40-45 minutes Number of servings: 2-3 servings Who isn’t drawn to the delicate flavors and creamy texture of melted cheese? Gratinated zucchini with mozzarella is a recipe that combines simple yet flavorful ingredients to create a dish that will bring a smile to anyone's face. This recipe was inspired by the culinary traditions of the regions traversed by the cycling caravan, but I added a touch of originality and adapted it to my tastes. Here’s how to prepare this delight step by step! Necessary ingredients: - 1 medium zucchini - 150 g fresh mozzarella - 5-6 cherry tomatoes (or small tomatoes) - A few sprigs of fresh parsley - 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil - Salt and white pepper, to taste A bit of history: Zucchini is a popular ingredient in kitchens around the world, appreciated not only for its taste but also for its versatility. It can be used in soups, salads, or as a side dish. Mozzarella, on the other hand, has its origins in the southern regions, being a staple ingredient in many Italian dishes. Combining these two ingredients in a gratin is an excellent way to highlight the freshness of the vegetables, enriched by the creamy texture of the cheese. Preparation: 1. Preheat the oven: Start by preheating the oven to 200 °C. This step is essential to ensure even baking of the zucchinis and mozzarella. 2. Prepare the zucchini: Peel the zucchini (if you prefer, you can leave the skin on for a more rustic look and a crunchy texture) and cut it in half lengthwise. Use a spoon to scoop out the seeds inside, then cut each half into thin longitudinal strips. The strips should be about 3-4 mm thick. 3. Blanch the zucchinis: Place the zucchini slices in a pot of boiling salted water for 1-4 minutes. Blanching helps soften the zucchinis, but make sure not to leave them too long, or they will turn into mush. After blanching, rinse them with cold water to stop the cooking process. 4. Prepare the mozzarella: Cut the mozzarella into long strips (sticks) that will be used to fill the zucchinis. 5. Assemble the dish: In a baking dish, place the slices of tomatoes at the bottom. This will not only add flavor but also prevent the zucchinis from sticking to the dish. Arrange the zucchini slices, filled with mozzarella, in rows or rolls. If desired, you can also fill the cherry tomatoes with mozzarella, creating an attractive presentation. 6. Seasoning: Drizzle everything with olive oil, sprinkle salt and pepper to taste. If you want an extra note of flavor, add a few parsley leaves between the slices of zucchini and tomatoes. 7. Baking: Cover the dish with aluminum foil (if you want the cheese not to brown too quickly) and place it in the preheated oven. Let it bake for 25-30 minutes. Check if the zucchinis are tender and the cheese has melted and started to brown. 8. Serving: Once the dish is ready, remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly. You can serve it warm, alongside a fresh green salad or as a side dish to a meat main course. Gratinated zucchini with mozzarella is delicious even cold, so feel free to save it to enjoy later. Useful tips: - Variations: You can experiment with different types of cheese, such as feta or goat cheese, to give the dish a different note. Additionally, add black olives or red peppers for an extra burst of flavor and color. - Substitutes: If you don’t have zucchini, you can use eggplant or potatoes, which behave similarly in this dish. - Parsley: You can also add other herbs, such as basil or oregano, to enhance the flavors. Nutritional benefits: Zucchini is a low-calorie vegetable rich in vitamins A and C, as well as fiber. Mozzarella, on the other hand, is an excellent source of protein and calcium. This dish is not only delicious but also nutritious! Frequently asked questions: - Can I use frozen zucchini? It’s better to use fresh zucchini to achieve the best texture. If you use frozen zucchini, make sure it is well thawed and drained of excess water. - How can I store leftovers? Gratinated zucchini can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 2-3 days. It can be reheated in the oven or microwave. In conclusion, gratinated zucchini with mozzarella is a recipe that will delight you with its simplicity as well as its rich flavors. Whether you choose to serve it as a main dish or as a side, it will surely become a favorite in your kitchen. Enjoy your meal!