Side Dishes > Vegetables > Italian Vegetables

Twice-Baked Zucchini Gratin Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 large zucchini, cut into 1/4-inch slices
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt

Special Equipment Needed:
- Baking sheet
- 9-inch baking dish

Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Arrange zucchini slices in a single layer on a baking sheet. Brush with olive oil.
3. Bake for 15 minutes, or until zucchini is tender.
4. In a medium bowl, combine Parmesan cheese, mozzarella cheese, parsley, garlic, oregano, black pepper, and salt.
5. Grease a 9-inch baking dish.
6. Arrange half of the zucchini slices in the bottom of the dish.
7. Sprinkle half of the cheese mixture over the zucchini.
8. Top with remaining zucchini slices and cheese mixture.
9. Bake for 20 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.

Time:
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 35 minutes
Temperature: 375°F
Serving Size: 4

Nutritional Information:
Calories: 170
Fat: 11g
Carbohydrates: 8g
Protein: 9g

Substitutions for Ingredients:
- Olive oil can be substituted with canola oil.
- Parmesan cheese can be substituted with Pecorino Romano cheese.
- Mozzarella cheese can be substituted with cheddar cheese.
- Parsley can be substituted with fresh basil.

Variations:
- Add 1/2 cup of cooked bacon or ham for a heartier dish.
- Add 1/2 cup of cooked quinoa or rice for a more filling dish.

Tips and Tricks:
- For a crispier top, broil the gratin for the last 5 minutes of baking.
- For a creamier texture, add 1/2 cup of heavy cream to the cheese mixture.

Storage Instructions:
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating Instructions:
Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10 minutes, or until heated through.

Presentation Ideas:
- Serve with a side of crusty bread.
- Garnish with fresh parsley.

Garnishes:
- Fresh parsley
- Chopped fresh basil

Pairings:
- Grilled chicken
- Roasted vegetables

Suggested Side Dishes:
- Roasted potatoes
- Sauteed spinach

Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the gratin is not browning, increase the oven temperature to 400°F and bake for an additional 5 minutes.

Food Safety Advice:
- Refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours of cooking.

Food History:
Zucchini is a member of the squash family and is native to Central America. It was brought to Europe in the 16th century and has been a popular vegetable ever since.

Flavor Profiles:
This dish is savory and cheesy, with a hint of garlic and oregano.

Serving Suggestions:
- Serve as a side dish with grilled meats.
- Serve as a main dish with a side salad.

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Taste: Creamy, Cheesy, Savory, Herby, Garlicky