Cooking has been one of the things in life which I didn’t think I had a talent for. Certainly I didn’t ever see myself choosing simple meals based upon the availability of fresh ingredients or nutritional value. It’s almost embarrassing to think of the number of pre-made meals I’ve eaten as an adult.
These days that has changed, I’m always on the lookout for simple meal ideas which bring high nutritional impact to the table. Thankfully I’ve found Pinterest and many other blogs which stimulate my creative side, somehow empowering me to be brave with new recipes.
Recently I came across the Proud Italian Cook who has a lovely looking Zucchini Tomato Gratin recipe which I decided to try.
Zucchini Gratin Recipe
For ingredients the most important one is obviously zucchini and I’d say the olive oil, garlic, onions and tomatoes are essential. Add to that whatever fresh produce you have in the fridge, the Proud Italian Cook called for Vadalia onion but I had a red onion so went with that.
In a wide sauce pan which you can put into the oven I began by browning the onion and some garlic slices in olive oil. Then I threw in the peppers and green onions to warm and gently soften. Next I layered zucchini, romano and parmesan cheese mixture and tomatoes. Finally I sprinkled breadcrumbs and salt and pepper over it all.
Pop the pan into the oven which you’ll pre-heat to 425 degrees until the tomatoes pop and the zucchini is soft and tender. I found it easiest to turn on the broiler for a few minutes at the end to brown it all nicely.
Voila! A beautiful, deliciously simple side dish which we love. This Zucchini Gratin Recipe can be made with many different peppers or cheeses, get creative and see what you enjoy most.
This looks amazing! I’m going to try this recipe with flaxseeds instead of breadcrumbs & pecorino cheese instead of parmesan so it can be gluten & dairy free.
Wow Althea such a great idea, those substitutions are fabulous