Zucchini and Tomato Gratin Recipe

Introduction

Zucchini and Tomato Gratin is a delicious and comforting dish that combines the freshness of zucchini with the tanginess of ripe tomatoes, all baked together with a savory, golden crust. This gratin makes for a perfect side dish for any meal, adding vibrant color and flavor to your table. The creamy, cheesy topping creates a perfect contrast with the tender vegetables beneath, while the roasted herbs and garlic infuse every bite with deep, aromatic flavor.

Whether you are preparing a simple weeknight dinner, hosting a special gathering, or just craving a vegetable-based dish, this gratin is sure to satisfy. The combination of summer vegetables, cheese, and a crispy topping makes this dish both flavorful and satisfying, while still being light and healthy. This guide will take you through the easy steps of creating a perfect Zucchini and Tomato Gratin.

Why You’ll Love Zucchini and Tomato Gratin

• Bursting with Flavor: The sweetness of the zucchini pairs beautifully with the tangy, juicy tomatoes, creating a rich and flavorful dish. The combination of herbs, garlic, and cheese enhances these vegetables to make a hearty yet light meal.
• Comforting and Hearty: While being light and healthy, this gratin is still comforting and filling. The cheesy topping forms a crunchy, golden crust that contrasts nicely with the tender vegetables, making it feel indulgent without being too heavy.
• Visually Appealing: The bright green zucchini and vibrant red tomatoes create an eye-catching dish. The layers of color make this gratin a beautiful addition to any dinner table or special occasion spread.
• Quick and Easy to Prepare: With just a handful of ingredients and simple preparation, this gratin is straightforward and quick to put together. It requires minimal effort but results in a dish that feels elegant and delicious.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether you’re serving it as a side dish at a family dinner, as part of a holiday meal, or as a main dish for a light lunch, Zucchini and Tomato Gratin is versatile enough to fit any occasion.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 1 hour
• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 40 minutes
• Servings: Approximately 6 servings
• Calories per Serving: Around 150-180 calories per serving, depending on portion sizes and cheese used.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 150-180 kcal
• Fat: 10-12g
• Carbohydrates: 10-12g
• Protein: 6g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 5-7g (from tomatoes and zucchini)

Ingredients

For the Zucchini and Tomato Gratin:

• 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into ¼-inch rounds
• 3 large tomatoes, sliced into ¼-inch rounds
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• ¼ cup fresh breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)

Optional Add-ins:

• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
• 1 small onion, thinly sliced (for added sweetness)
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (for added depth of flavor)

Special Equipment

Though Zucchini and Tomato Gratin is easy to prepare, having the following kitchen tools can help streamline the process:

1. Mandoline or Sharp Knife: A mandoline slicer is ideal for cutting the zucchini and tomatoes into even, thin slices. If you don’t have one, a sharp knife works just as well.
2. Baking Dish: A medium-sized baking dish (about 9×9 inches or similar) is perfect for layering the vegetables and baking the gratin. Use a dish that allows the vegetables to spread out evenly, ensuring they cook uniformly.
3. Grater or Zester: A microplane or box grater is great for grating the Parmesan cheese and garlic, creating a finer texture that will melt evenly.
4. Mixing Bowl: A small mixing bowl is useful for combining the breadcrumbs, Parmesan, and any other topping ingredients before adding them to the gratin.
5. Oven Mitts: These will protect your hands when handling the hot baking dish.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Vegetables

Start by washing the zucchini and tomatoes thoroughly. Slice the zucchini and tomatoes into even ¼-inch rounds, ensuring that the slices are uniform in thickness. This ensures they cook evenly in the oven.

If you’re using fresh herbs like basil or parsley, chop them finely and set them aside for garnish later. You can also prepare the breadcrumbs if you’re using them for the topping by placing them in a small mixing bowl.

2. Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This is the ideal temperature to bake the gratin, allowing the vegetables to soften and the cheese to melt and become golden brown.

3. Layer the Vegetables

Drizzle a tablespoon of olive oil into the bottom of your baking dish, ensuring the dish is lightly coated. Begin layering the sliced zucchini and tomato in an alternating pattern, slightly overlapping the slices. You can arrange the vegetables in concentric circles, or you can layer them in rows, depending on the size of your baking dish.

Sprinkle the layers with salt, pepper, garlic powder, dried oregano, and dried thyme. These seasonings will infuse the vegetables with flavor as they bake.

4. Add the Cheese

Once the vegetables are layered in the dish, sprinkle half of the shredded mozzarella cheese and half of the grated Parmesan cheese over the top. This cheese layer will melt beautifully during baking and provide a delicious, creamy texture.

5. Add Breadcrumbs (Optional)

If you want a crispy topping, sprinkle ¼ cup of fresh breadcrumbs over the cheese. This adds a delightful crunch and a golden color to the gratin once it’s baked. You can also add extra Parmesan on top of the breadcrumbs for more flavor and richness.

6. Bake the Gratin

Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and the top is golden brown and bubbly. You can check for doneness by inserting a fork into the vegetables; they should be soft and easily pierced. If the top is browning too quickly, cover the dish with aluminum foil and continue baking until fully cooked.

7. Cool and Serve

Once the gratin is done, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool for about 5 minutes before serving. This gives the dish time to set and makes it easier to serve. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for a pop of color and added freshness.

Tips for Perfect Zucchini and Tomato Gratin

• Use Fresh, Ripe Tomatoes: The flavor of this gratin depends on the quality of the tomatoes. Opt for ripe, juicy tomatoes for the best flavor. If fresh tomatoes are not in season, you can use canned tomatoes, but fresh is always preferred.
• Layer the Vegetables Well: Be sure to layer the zucchini and tomato slices tightly so that they cook evenly and absorb all the flavors from the herbs and cheese. Overlapping the slices slightly will help with this.
• Experiment with Cheese: While mozzarella and Parmesan are classic choices, you can also try other cheeses like cheddar, Gruyère, or goat cheese for a different flavor profile.
• Season Well: Don’t be afraid to add extra seasoning. A pinch of red pepper flakes can add some heat, or a drizzle of balsamic vinegar will bring depth to the flavor.
• Let the Gratin Rest: After baking, allow the gratin to rest for a few minutes to firm up. This makes serving easier and helps prevent it from falling apart.

Variations of Zucchini and Tomato Gratin

• Cheesy Zucchini and Tomato Gratin: For an even cheesier version, try adding a second layer of cheese between the zucchini and tomato slices. A blend of mozzarella, cheddar, and Gruyère will give the gratin a rich, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• Herbed Zucchini and Tomato Gratin: Add fresh herbs like basil, rosemary, or thyme to the layers of vegetables for an extra burst of fresh flavor. You can also sprinkle chopped herbs over the top before baking.
• Zucchini and Tomato Gratin with Bacon: For a savory twist, add crumbled bacon to the gratin. The bacon adds a smoky, salty flavor that pairs wonderfully with the sweetness of the tomatoes and zucchini.
• Gluten-Free Zucchini and Tomato Gratin: To make this gratin gluten-free, simply use gluten-free breadcrumbs or skip the breadcrumbs entirely. You can also top the gratin with extra cheese to make up for the lack of breadcrumbs.
• Vegan Zucchini and Tomato Gratin: For a vegan version, omit the cheese and use a plant-based alternative, such as nutritional yeast or cashew cheese. The recipe can be made dairy-free while still providing a satisfying flavor.

Storage and Shelf Life

Zucchini and Tomato Gratin is best enjoyed fresh, but you can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place the gratin in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes, or until warmed through.

For longer storage, you can freeze the gratin. Allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, bake directly from frozen at 350°F (175°C) for 40-50 minutes or until heated through.

Side Dishes and Pairings for Zucchini and Tomato Gratin

Pair this gratin with complementary dishes to enhance the experience:

• Grilled Chicken: A simple grilled chicken breast or roasted chicken pairs beautifully with the gratin, providing a lean source of protein to balance the richness of the dish.
• Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes are a great side to this gratin, adding a hearty and satisfying element to your meal.
• Green Salad: A light, refreshing green salad with lemon vinaigrette will complement the richness of the gratin and balance out the meal.
• White Wine: A crisp white wine, such as Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc, pairs nicely with the cheesy and herbaceous flavors of the gratin.

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Conclusion

Zucchini and Tomato Gratin is a comforting and flavorful dish that combines two of summer’s most beloved vegetables with a savory, cheesy topping. Whether you’re serving it as a side or a main dish, this gratin is sure to impress. With simple ingredients and minimal preparation, you can create a dish that’s both hearty and healthy, perfect for any occasion.

Its versatility allows for plenty of variations and creative twists, whether you want to make it extra cheesy, gluten-free, or even vegan. The vibrant colors, delicious flavors, and satisfying textures make it a dish that everyone will love. Enjoy this recipe as a delightful addition to your next meal!