Teresa's Recipes
Garlic and Zucchini Gratin
Experience the delightful harmony of flavors in this Garlic and Zucchini Gratin, a creamy and cheesy side dish that captures the essence of Mediterranean cuisine. This dish features tender, sliced zucchini layered with a rich garlic-infused cream and topped with a golden, crispy breadcrumb and Parmesan crust. Perfectly seasoned and bursting with fresh herbs, it's a versatile accompaniment to grilled meats, roasted chicken, or a hearty pasta. With roots in French culinary tradition, gratins were originally created to showcase seasonal vegetables, and this version celebrates the vibrant produce of summer, making it a must-try for zucchini lovers everywhere.
Ingredients
- 4 medium, sliced into thin rounds Zucchini
- 4 cloves, minced Garlic
- 2 tablespoons Olive oil
- 1 cup Heavy cream
- 1 cup, grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup, preferably whole wheat Breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup, chopped Fresh parsley
- 1 teaspoon, to taste Salt
- 1/2 teaspoon, to taste Pepper
- a pinch, for depth of flavor Nutmeg
Dietary Notes
- Servings: 6
- Dish Type: Side Dish
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Calories: 220
- Fat: 16g
- Carbs: 12g
- Protein: 7g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Sugar: 3g
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant but not browned.
- Add the sliced zucchini to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the zucchini is slightly softened and begins to release its moisture.
- In a separate bowl, combine 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, 1/2 cup of breadcrumbs, chopped parsley, and a pinch of salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Mix well to create the topping.
- Pour 1 cup of heavy cream over the sautéed zucchini in the skillet, stirring to combine, and then transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish, spreading it evenly across the bottom.
- Sprinkle the Parmesan breadcrumb mixture evenly over the zucchini and cream, ensuring full coverage.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if necessary.
- Serve warm as a delicious and satisfying side dish, and enjoy the symphony of flavors!
Tips
- For added depth of flavor, consider adding a layer of thinly sliced onions or bell peppers along with the zucchini.
- You can substitute half of the zucchini with summer squash or eggplant for a different twist.
- For a spicier version, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture.