Creamy Zucchini and Mushroom Bake

This recipe transforms simple zucchini into an incredibly tasty and creamy dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Featuring a mix of vegetables sautéed in butter and olive oil, then baked with cream and cheese, this dish is sure to impress with its rich flavors and comforting texture. Here’s how to prepare this delicious zucchini bake.

Ingredients:

  • Olive oil
  • 1 zucchini, sliced
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 carrot, sliced
  • 300 grams mushrooms, sliced
  • 1 tomato, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon flour
  • 400 grams cream
  • Chopped parsley, to taste
  • 100 grams cheese, grated
  • Salt, to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
  • Pepper, to taste

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the Oven:
    • Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
  2. Sauté Vegetables:
    • In a large skillet, heat a splash of olive oil and the butter over medium heat.
    • Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent.
    • Add the sliced carrots and mushrooms to the skillet, cooking until they start to soften.
    • Include the sliced zucchini and cook for a few more minutes until slightly tender.
    • Stir in the chopped tomato and cook for another 2 minutes.
  3. Make the Roux:
    • Sprinkle the tablespoon of flour over the vegetables and stir to coat them well. Cook for about 1 minute to remove the raw flour taste.
  4. Add Cream and Seasonings:
    • Pour the cream into the skillet, mixing well with the vegetables. Allow the mixture to come to a gentle simmer and thicken slightly.
    • Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Adjust the seasoning to your taste.
  5. Transfer to Baking Dish:
    • Transfer the creamy vegetable mixture into a greased baking dish.
    • Sprinkle the grated cheese evenly over the top.
  6. Bake:
    • Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
  7. Garnish and Serve:
    • Remove the dish from the oven and let it cool slightly.
    • Garnish with chopped parsley before serving to add a fresh, herbal touch.

Conclusion:

This Creamy Zucchini and Mushroom Bake is a wonderful way to enjoy zucchini, with its layers of flavor from the tender vegetables, rich creamy sauce, and melted cheese. It’s a versatile dish that can serve as a main course or a side dish, perfect for dinners, gatherings, or a comforting meal at home. Enjoy the combination of textures and flavors that make this dish so delightful and satisfying.