Baked Zucchini Recipe: Fast, Light, and Delicious

Enjoy a delicious and light meal with this Baked Zucchini recipe. It’s quick to prepare, healthy, and packed with flavors. The best part? No frying required! Let’s get started.

Ingredients

To make this tasty Baked Zucchini, you will need:

Zucchini: 600 g

Breadcrumbs: 100 g
Grated Bread: 3 tablespoons
Parmesan Cheese: 3 tablespoons

Garlic: To taste, minced
Parsley: To taste, chopped
Black Pepper: To taste

Provolone Cheese: 250 g, thinly sliced or shredded
Cooked Ham: 150 g, thinly sliced
Extra Virgin Olive Oil (EVOO): For drizzling

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your Baked Zucchini:

Preparation

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
Prepare Zucchini: Wash the zucchini thoroughly and slice them thinly lengthwise.

Layering

First Layer: In a baking dish, start with a layer of zucchini slices.
Breadcrumb Mixture: Sprinkle a mix of breadcrumbs, grated bread, and Parmesan cheese over the zucchini.
Season: Add minced garlic, chopped parsley, and a sprinkle of black pepper.

Add Cheese and Ham: Distribute small pieces of provolone cheese and slices of cooked ham over the layer.

Repeating Layers

Repeat Layers: Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used up, finishing with a top layer of zucchini slices.
Top Layer: Sprinkle the remaining breadcrumb mixture on top.

Drizzling

Drizzle EVOO: Drizzle extra virgin olive oil over the top layer.

Baking

Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the zucchini is tender.

Serving

Cool and Serve: Allow it to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your light and delicious baked zucchini!

Tips for Success

Even Slicing: Ensure the zucchini slices are of even thickness for uniform cooking.
Layering: Layer the ingredients evenly for balanced flavors in every bite.
Cheese: Use a good-quality provolone cheese for the best flavor and melting properties.

Health Benefits

This Baked Zucchini dish is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients:

Low in Calories: Zucchini is low in calories and high in fiber, making it a great choice for a light meal.
Rich in Vitamins: Zucchini and parsley are rich in vitamins A, C, and K, which support immune health and overall well-being.

Protein: Provolone cheese and cooked ham add a good source of protein, essential for muscle repair and growth.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use other types of cheese?

Yes, you can use any type of cheese you prefer. Mozzarella, Swiss, or cheddar are great alternatives.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover baked zucchini in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes, you can omit the cooked ham or replace it with a vegetarian alternative like thinly sliced bell peppers or mushrooms.

What can I serve with this dish?

Serve this baked zucchini with a side salad, crusty bread, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Conclusion

This Baked Zucchini recipe is a fast, light, and delicious way to enjoy a healthy meal. With its layers of zucchini, cheese, and ham, all baked to perfection, it’s sure to become a favorite. Enjoy this nutritious and flavorful dish with your family and friends!