Looking for a dish that’s easy, healthy, and bursting with fresh flavors? Look no further than this Parmesan Tomato Zucchini Bake, a vibrant and delicious recipe that highlights the best of seasonal produce. With tender slices of zucchini, yellow squash, and ripe tomatoes, all seasoned with aromatic herbs and spices, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Topped with savory Parmesan cheese, it bakes to golden perfection, creating a mouthwatering medley of flavors and textures.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
✔ Simple & Quick – Requires only a handful of ingredients and minimal prep, making it an ideal dish for busy weeknights.
✔ Healthy & Nutritious – Packed with vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants, this dish is as good for your body as it is for your taste buds.
✔ Bursting with Fresh Flavors – The natural sweetness of tomatoes and zucchini pairs beautifully with the richness of Parmesan and the aromatic blend of Italian herbs.
✔ Perfect for Summer – Take advantage of peak-season zucchini and tomatoes for maximum flavor.
✔ Versatile Side Dish – Pairs well with grilled meats, pasta, or even as a light vegetarian meal on its own.
A Celebration of Fresh Ingredients
This dish is all about celebrating fresh, simple ingredients that come together effortlessly to create something truly special. The zucchini and yellow squash provide a delicate, mild flavor and a tender texture, while the juicy tomatoes bring a refreshing burst of sweetness and acidity. Garlic, onion powder, and Italian herbs enhance the natural flavors, creating a savory, well-balanced bite.
And let’s not forget the star of the show—Parmesan cheese! As it bakes, it melts into a golden, slightly crispy layer that adds depth and richness to the dish. Every bite is packed with flavor, texture, and just the right amount of cheesy goodness.
Perfect for Any Occasion
Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy weeknight side dish, a delicious addition to a summer barbecue, or a light vegetarian meal, this Parmesan Tomato Zucchini Bake is the perfect choice. It’s a great way to use up extra garden vegetables and makes for a stunning presentation on any dinner table.
Want to make it heartier? Try adding mozzarella for extra cheesiness, or toss in some breadcrumbs for added crunch. You can also customize the herbs to match your preferences, making it as bold or as mild as you like.
Time to Bake!
Now that you know how easy and delicious this dish is, it’s time to gather your ingredients and get baking. With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a healthy, flavorful side dish ready to impress your family and friends.
So, whether you’re a seasoned home cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this Parmesan Tomato Zucchini Bake is a foolproof recipe that you’ll want to make again and again. Enjoy the taste of summer with every bite!
Ingredients:
- 2 medium zucchini, sliced
- 2 medium yellow squash, sliced
- 5 medium tomatoes, sliced
- ½ cup quality Parmesan cheese, shredded
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¾ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¾ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon Italian spices
- Optional: salt to taste
Directions:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Step 2: Arrange the Vegetables
- In a baking dish, arrange the sliced zucchini, sliced yellow squash, and sliced tomatoes in an alternating pattern, creating a beautiful layered effect. Try to keep the slices standing up slightly for a more elegant presentation.
Step 3: Add Cheese and Seasoning
- Sprinkle ½ cup shredded Parmesan cheese evenly over the vegetables.
- Season the dish with ½ teaspoon black pepper, ¾ teaspoon garlic powder, ¾ teaspoon onion powder, and ½ teaspoon Italian spices.
- If desired, sprinkle some salt to taste, especially if your Parmesan cheese isn’t too salty.
Step 4: Bake the Dish
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the zucchini and yellow squash are tender and the Parmesan cheese is golden and bubbly.
Step 5: Serve
- Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and serve hot.
- Garnish with fresh herbs like basil or parsley for extra flavor if desired.
Cooking Notes:
- Vegetable Slicing: Make sure to slice the zucchini, squash, and tomatoes evenly to ensure uniform cooking. A mandoline slicer can help achieve perfect, thin slices.
- Cheese Option: For a different flavor, you can substitute the Parmesan with shredded mozzarella or Pecorino Romano.
- Spice Variations: Feel free to add other herbs and spices, such as thyme, basil, or red pepper flakes, to customize the flavor.
Serving Suggestions:
- As a Side Dish: Serve this baked vegetable dish alongside grilled chicken, steak, or fish for a healthy and balanced meal.
- As a Main Dish: For a light vegetarian meal, enjoy it with a side of crusty bread or a simple green salad.
Tips:
- Make Ahead: You can prepare this dish ahead of time by slicing the vegetables and arranging them in the baking dish. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake.
- Leftovers: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave.
Prep Time:
- 10 minutes
Cooking Time:
- 25-30 minutes
Total Time:
- 35-40 minutes
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: 120 kcal
- Protein: 6g
- Sodium: 230mg
Conclusion
This Parmesan Tomato Zucchini Bake is a vibrant and flavorful dish that celebrates fresh summer produce. It’s easy to prepare, making it a go-to recipe for weeknight dinners or a simple, elegant side for entertaining. With minimal ingredients and big flavors, this dish is perfect for showcasing the natural goodness of zucchini, yellow squash, and tomatoes. Enjoy it fresh from the oven with family and friends!