Savory Baked Zucchini with Mozzarella and Garlic Yogurt Sauce

When zucchini is in season, this savory baked zucchini dish becomes a kitchen favorite. It’s a simple, hearty meal filled with fresh vegetables, herbs, and a cheesy twist that the whole family will enjoy. Paired with a tangy garlic yogurt sauce, this zucchini recipe will soon become a staple in your household. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or need a delicious side dish, this recipe is sure to impress!

Ingredients:

For the Zucchini Dish:

• 3 large eggs
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 2 large zucchini, sliced thinly
• Olive oil for cooking
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 1 carrot, grated
• 2 tomatoes, chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 150 g breadcrumbs
• 1 tablespoon Provencal herbs
• 2 tablespoons flour
• 1 tablespoon paprika
• 120 g mozzarella, shredded

For the Garlic Yogurt Sauce:

• 200 g unsweetened yogurt
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• Salt to taste
• 1 clove of garlic, minced
• Fresh dill, chopped (to taste)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Vegetables:
   • Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
   • Heat a drizzle of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
   • Incorporate the diced onion into the pan and cook, stirring occasionally, until it becomes tender and clear.
   • Add the grated carrot and minced garlic to the skillet, cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
   • Stir in the chopped tomatoes and season with salt and black pepper. Cook for another 5 minutes until the tomatoes soften and form a sauce-like consistency. Set the vegetable mixture aside.
2. Prepare the Zucchini:
   • Thinly slice the zucchini and sprinkle with a pinch of salt. Let the zucchini sit for about 10 minutes to release excess moisture, then pat dry with a paper towel.
   • In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs and season with salt, black pepper, and paprika.
3. Bread the Zucchini:
   • In another bowl, mix the breadcrumbs, flour, and Provencal herbs.
   • Dip each zucchini slice into the beaten egg, then coat it in the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring both sides are evenly coated.
4. Assemble the Dish:
   • Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil. Layer the bottom with some of the breadcrumb-coated zucchini slices.
   • Spread a portion of the sautéed vegetable mixture over the zucchini.
   • Sprinkle a layer of shredded mozzarella on top.
   • Repeat the layers until all the ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of mozzarella.
5. Bake the Zucchini:
   • Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the zucchini is tender and the cheese is golden and bubbly.
   • Once baked, allow it to rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.
6. Make the Garlic Yogurt Sauce:
   • In a small bowl, mix together the unsweetened yogurt, soy sauce, a pinch of salt, minced garlic, and fresh dill.
   • Stir until well combined.
7. Serve:
   • Slice the baked zucchini into portions and serve warm with a generous drizzle of the garlic yogurt sauce on the side or on top.

Conclusion:

This savory baked zucchini dish, with its layers of crispy breaded zucchini, flavorful vegetables, and melty mozzarella, is a delightful way to enjoy seasonal produce. Paired with the fresh and tangy garlic yogurt sauce, each bite offers a delicious balance of flavors. Perfect as a main course or a side dish, this zucchini recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen!