Gratinated summer vegetables

Gratinated Summer Vegetables – A Simple and Delicious Recipe

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Total: 45 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Do you dream of a light meal, full of flavors, that brings you joy and freshness? Gratinated summer vegetables are exactly what you need! This simple and quick recipe will indulge you with the rich taste of zucchini and eggplants, combined with a savory tomato sauce and a generous layer of melted cheese. It’s a perfect choice for hot days, but also a healthy option that fits any meal.

A Brief History

Gratin dishes have been appreciated over time for their crunchy texture and intense flavors developed during baking. In many cultures, gratinated vegetables have become a popular way to transform simple ingredients into sophisticated yet easy-to-prepare dishes. This recipe for gratinated summer vegetables combines tradition with seasonal ingredients, paying homage to summer.

Ingredients

- 2 large zucchinis
- 2 medium eggplants
- 1 egg (optional, for added consistency)
- 2 heads of garlic
- 1 can of tomatoes (about 400 g)
- 1 tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil
- 1-2 tablespoons of butter (for a rich taste)
- 250 g cheese (preferably a type that melts well, such as mozzarella or Romanian cheese)
- Dried oregano
- Dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste

Useful

- A heat-resistant dish
- A frying pan
- A blender or mixer for the sauce
- Knife and cutting board

Step by Step

1. Preparing the Vegetables:
Start by thoroughly washing the zucchinis and eggplants. Cut them into slices about 1 cm thick. This thickness will ensure even baking. If desired, you can sprinkle a bit of salt on the slices to remove excess water, letting them sit for 15 minutes.

2. Frying the Vegetables:
In a large frying pan, add a bit of butter and let it melt over medium heat. Add the zucchini and eggplant slices and fry them for 3-4 minutes on each side, until they become slightly golden. This will intensify the flavors and add a pleasant texture to the dish.

3. Preparing the Tomato Sauce:
In a blender, combine the canned tomatoes, peeled and chopped garlic, olive oil, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Blend until you obtain a smooth sauce. You can adjust the spices to taste – if you like a spicier sauce, you can add a pinch of dried chili pepper.

4. Assembling the Dish:
Grease the heat-resistant dish with butter to prevent sticking. Arrange a uniform layer of zucchini and eggplant slices. Pour the tomato sauce over them, ensuring they are well covered. If you want a creamier texture, you can add the beaten egg to the sauce.

5. Baking:
Place the lid on the dish and put it in the preheated oven at 180°C. Bake for 20-30 minutes, until the sauce thickens slightly. This is when the flavors blend perfectly.

6. Finishing the Dish:
Remove the dish from the oven and sprinkle the grated cheese on top. Return it to the oven, this time without the lid, and let it bake until the cheese melts and becomes golden and crispy, about 10-15 minutes.

7. Serving:
Let the dish cool slightly before serving. It is delicious both warm and at room temperature. We suggest serving it alongside grilled turkey breast for a balanced and protein-rich meal.

Practical Tips

- Recipe Variations: You can also add other vegetables, such as bell peppers or mushrooms. Additionally, you can experiment with different cheeses, such as feta or parmesan, for a distinct taste.
- Tricks for an Intense Flavor: Instead of using canned tomatoes, you can opt for fresh, pureed tomatoes. Also, adding a bit of sugar to the sauce can help balance the acidity of the tomatoes.
- Calories and Nutritional Benefits: This recipe is an excellent source of fiber and vitamins, thanks to the fresh vegetables. A serving has about 250-300 calories, depending on the amount of cheese used. It’s a healthy option for lunch or dinner.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I use frozen vegetables? Yes, but make sure to thaw and dry them well before using them to avoid excess moisture.
- How can I store leftovers? The dish can be stored in the refrigerator in airtight containers for 2-3 days. You can reheat it in the oven or microwave.
- What drinks pair well? A light white wine or a fresh lemonade with mint are excellent options to complement the meal.

Gratinated summer vegetables are more than just a simple recipe; they are a celebration of summer and fresh ingredients! We invite you to enjoy every bite and share this recipe with your loved ones. Bon appétit!