Gratinated Zucchini

Gratinated Zucchini – a simple, healthy, and flavorful recipe

When it comes to dishes that combine health with flavor, gratinated zucchini is certainly an inspired choice. This recipe is not only quick but also offers an explosion of colors and aromas that delight all the senses. The origins of the gratinated zucchini recipe are lost in the mists of time, but it is well-known for its versatility and for being adaptable to individual tastes.

In this recipe, we will combine juicy zucchinis with flavorful tomatoes and creamy mozzarella, all gratinated until golden and delicious. Whether you're preparing for a family dinner or looking to impress guests, this recipe is the perfect choice.

Total preparation time: 35 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Ingredients:
- 4-5 small zucchinis (approximately 600 g)
- 10 cherry tomatoes (or 4-5 large tomatoes)
- 1 mozzarella (approximately 200 g)
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- Olive oil, for greasing the baking dish

Preparing the gratinated zucchini – step by step

1. Preparing the zucchinis: Start by washing the zucchinis well under a stream of cold water. Choose small, young zucchinis, as they are sweeter and have a finer texture. After washing, cut off the ends and prepare a pot of boiling water. Add a teaspoon of salt to the water. Blanching the zucchinis not only makes them easier to digest but also helps preserve their color and flavor.

2. Blanching the zucchinis: When the water starts to boil, add the zucchinis and let them boil for about 5 minutes. Don't leave them too long, as you don't want them to become mushy. Then plunge them into a bowl of cold water to stop the cooking process. This step is essential for maintaining a crunchy texture.

3. Preparing the tomatoes: Cut the cherry tomatoes in half or slices, depending on your preference. If using large tomatoes, slice them thinly. Cherry tomatoes are ideal for this recipe due to their natural sweetness and the juice they release during cooking.

4. Slicing the zucchinis: Once the zucchinis have cooled, slice them thinly lengthwise. This will allow the flavors to penetrate better into the dish.

5. Assembling the dish: Prepare a ceramic or clay dish, greasing it with olive oil. Arrange a first layer of zucchini slices, followed by a layer of tomatoes. Continue with another layer of zucchinis, then another layer of tomatoes. Finally, add the mozzarella slices on top. The mozzarella will melt beautifully and bind all the ingredients, creating a golden and appetizing crust.

6. Baking: Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. Place the dish in the oven and let it bake for about 15 minutes, or until the mozzarella becomes golden and starts to melt. You will notice how the flavors combine and how the dish becomes truly special.

7. Serving: Once the gratinated zucchinis are ready, take them out of the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. They are delicious both warm and at room temperature. You can serve them alongside a fresh salad or as a side dish for a main meat course.

Practical tips for a perfect result:
- Choose young zucchinis without large seeds for a pleasant texture.
- If you want a more intense flavor, you can add some fresh herbs, such as basil or oregano, between the layers of vegetables.
- Experiment with different types of cheese, such as feta or parmesan, to add a unique touch to your dish.
- Don't forget to serve the gratinated zucchinis with a drizzle of olive oil on top and possibly a bit of balsamic for a contrast of flavors.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use larger zucchinis? – Although small zucchinis are preferred for this recipe, you can also use larger ones, making sure to remove the seeds.
2. How can I store leftover gratinated zucchinis? – They store well in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 2-3 days. You can reheat them in the oven or microwave.
3. Can I freeze gratinated zucchinis? – While it is possible to freeze them, the texture may change. It is recommended to consume the dish fresh for the best culinary experience.

Nutritional benefits:
Zucchinis are an excellent source of vitamins, minerals, and fiber, being low in calories, which makes them ideal for a healthy diet. Tomatoes are rich in antioxidants, and mozzarella provides a source of protein and calcium. This recipe is perfect for those who want to enjoy a healthy and delicious dish.

Now that you have all the necessary information, it’s time to start cooking! Gratinated zucchinis are a wonderful choice that will bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones. Enjoy this simple yet sophisticated dish and savor every bite!