Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 medium zucchinis, sliced
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Cesio cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
Special equipment needed:
- 9x13 inch baking dish
- Medium saucepan
- Whisk
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
3. Add the minced garlic and sliced onion to the saucepan and sauté until the onion is translucent.
4. Add the flour to the saucepan and whisk until smooth.
5. Gradually add the milk to the saucepan, whisking constantly until the mixture thickens.
6. Add the grated Parmesan and Cesio cheese to the saucepan and stir until melted.
7. Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Arrange the sliced zucchinis in the bottom of the baking dish.
9. Pour the cheese sauce over the zucchinis.
10. Sprinkle the breadcrumbs over the top of the cheese sauce.
11. Bake the gratin for 30-35 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the zucchinis are tender.
12. Let the gratin cool for a few minutes before serving.
Time:
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 30-35 minutes
5. Temperature:
375°F
Serving size:
6 servings
Nutritional information:
Calories: 290
Fat: 18g
Carbohydrates: 17g
Protein: 14g
Sodium: 430mg
Sugar: 7g
Fiber: 2g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Cesio cheese can be substituted with any other hard cheese like Gouda or Cheddar.
- Breadcrumbs can be substituted with crushed crackers or panko breadcrumbs.
Variations:
- Add sliced mushrooms to the gratin for an earthy flavor.
- Substitute zucchinis with yellow squash or eggplant for a different flavor and texture.
- Add cooked bacon or ham for a meaty version of the gratin.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure to slice the zucchinis evenly to ensure even cooking.
- Use a mandoline slicer for even and thin slices.
- Let the gratin cool for a few minutes before serving to allow the cheese sauce to set.
Storage instructions:
- Store the leftover gratin in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
- Reheat the gratin in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes or until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
- Serve the gratin in individual ramekins for an elegant presentation.
- Garnish with chopped fresh herbs like parsley or basil.
Garnishes:
- Chopped fresh herbs like parsley or basil
- Crumbled bacon or ham
Pairings:
- Serve the gratin with a side salad for a light meal.
- Pair with roasted chicken or grilled fish for a complete meal.
Suggested side dishes:
- Mixed green salad with vinaigrette dressing
- Roasted vegetables like carrots, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the gratin is too runny, add more flour to the cheese sauce to thicken it.
- If the gratin is too dry, add more milk to the cheese sauce to thin it out.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure to wash the zucchinis thoroughly before slicing.
- Store the leftover gratin in the refrigerator within 2 hours of cooking.
Food history:
- Gratin originated in French cuisine and typically consists of a dish that is topped with cheese or breadcrumbs and baked until golden brown.
Flavor profiles:
- The Cesio and Parmesan cheese sauce adds a rich and savory flavor to the zucchinis.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve the gratin as a side dish or a light meal.
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Region: Italian