Experience the ultimate in simplicity and taste with this Oven-Baked Zucchini and Tomato Casserole, affectionately known as “Kabachki in the oven.” This dish layers vibrant zucchini and ripe tomatoes with creamy sour cream, fresh herbs, and melted cheese, creating a deliciously light yet satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- Zucchini: 500g, thinly sliced
- Tomatoes: 500g, thinly sliced
- Sour Cream: 200g
- Cheese: 150g, grated
- Garlic: 2-3 cloves, minced
- Fresh Herbs: Such as parsley or basil, chopped, to taste
- Salt: To taste
- Pepper: To taste
Instructions
1. Preheat Oven
- Preheat your oven to 190°C (375°F).
2. Prepare Ingredients
- In a bowl, mix together the sour cream, minced garlic, salt, and pepper to create the seasoning mix.
3. Layer the Vegetables
- Grease a baking dish lightly with oil or butter.
- Arrange a layer of zucchini slices at the bottom of the dish.
- Add a layer of tomato slices on top of the zucchini.
- Spread a portion of the sour cream mixture over the tomatoes.
- Sprinkle a layer of grated cheese and some chopped herbs.
4. Repeat Layers
- Continue layering zucchini, tomatoes, sour cream mixture, cheese, and herbs until all ingredients are used, finishing with a top layer of cheese and herbs.
5. Bake
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and the cheese is golden and bubbly.
6. Serve
- Allow the casserole to cool slightly before serving.
- This dish is excellent served with crusty bread or as a hearty side to a main course.
Tips for Success
- Vegetable Slicing: Use a mandoline or sharp knife to get evenly thin slices of zucchini and tomatoes, which will cook uniformly.
- Layering: Ensure each layer is evenly spread for consistent flavors throughout the casserole.
- Herb Choices: Experiment with different herbs like thyme or oregano for varying flavor profiles.
Health Benefits
Zucchini and tomatoes are low in calories but high in essential vitamins and minerals, including Vitamin C, potassium, and fiber. Combined with the protein from the cheese and the probiotics from the sour cream, this casserole is not only nutritious but also supports good digestion and overall health.
FAQs
Q: Can I add other vegetables to this casserole? A: Absolutely! Feel free to include layers of other vegetables like eggplant or bell peppers to add variety and additional nutrients.
Q: Can this dish be made ahead of time? A: Yes, you can assemble the casserole a day ahead and refrigerate. Bake it just before serving for the best results.
Conclusion
This Oven-Baked Zucchini and Tomato Casserole is the perfect example of how simple ingredients can be transformed into a dish that delights the senses. Whether you’re looking for a quick weekday dinner or a special weekend meal, this recipe promises to be the best you’ve ever tasted. Give it a try and let this dish become a new favorite in your culinary repertoire!
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