If you’re looking for a light and delicious dish that makes the most of fresh garden vegetables, this Zucchini and Cheese Bake Delight is perfect for you! This recipe brings together the natural sweetness of zucchini and tomatoes with the rich, melty goodness of mozzarella cheese. It’s a simple, yet satisfying dish that pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, or can be enjoyed on its own for a quick, healthy meal. Perfect for any season, this colorful bake is sure to become a favorite at your dinner table!
Ingredients:
- 2 large zucchinis, diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 cup grape tomatoes, halved
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
- 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s ready when your dish is prepared.
- Prepare the vegetables: Dice the zucchinis, chop the onion, halve the grape tomatoes, and dice the green bell pepper. Set them aside.
- Sauté the onion and bell pepper: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and diced bell pepper, sautéing them until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Season the vegetables: Add the diced zucchini, halved tomatoes, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and freshly cracked black pepper to the skillet. Stir everything together and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until the zucchini begins to soften slightly.
- Transfer to baking dish: Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil, and pour the sautéed vegetable mixture into the dish. Spread it evenly.
- Add the cheese: Sprinkle the grated mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of the vegetable mixture, making sure it covers the entire surface.
- Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden brown on top.
- Garnish and serve: Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.
Conclusion:
This Zucchini and Cheese Bake Delight is the perfect combination of fresh vegetables and cheesy goodness. Whether you’re serving it as a side dish for a family dinner or enjoying it as a light main course, it’s both flavorful and nutritious. The blend of Italian herbs with the fresh crunch of the zucchini and the creamy mozzarella makes every bite a delight!