This Easy Zucchini Tomato Gratin is a tasty dish made with fresh zucchini, juicy tomatoes, and a sprinkle of cheese on top. It’s baked until golden and bubbly—just delicious!
Everyone loves that cheesy, crispy top! I like to serve it as a side with grilled meats or just enjoy it alone. It’s a great way to sneak in those veggies while keeping it fun! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: Zucchini is the star of this dish. If you can’t find zucchini, yellow squash works well too. Both have a similar texture and flavor!
Tomatoes: Use fresh tomatoes for the best flavor. If they’re out of season, canned diced tomatoes can be a quick substitute, just drain them a bit before layering.
Onion: Sweet onions or yellow onions are lovely here. If you’re not a fan, you could skip them or use shallots for a milder taste.
Cheese: Parmesan is a classic choice for a nutty flavor. If you’re looking for dairy-free options, try nutritional yeast for a cheesy taste without cheese.
Basil: Fresh basil adds freshness, but if it isn’t available, dried basil works in a pinch. Just remember that dried herbs are more concentrated, so use less!
How Do You Ensure a Perfectly Layered Gratin?
Layering is key to a delicious gratin. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start with a layer of zucchini at the bottom. This provides a nice base.
- When adding tomatoes, ensure they overlap slightly for even coverage.
- Don’t skip the sautéed onions and garlic; they add so much flavor between the layers.
- Be generous with cheese in between layers and on top for a great melty finish!
- After baking, let it cool slightly before serving. This helps the layers hold together better.
How to Make Easy Zucchini Tomato Gratin
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Gratin:
- 2 medium zucchinis, thinly sliced
- 3 large tomatoes, thinly sliced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped (or 1 tsp dried basil)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for extra crispiness)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prep and an additional 25 to 30 minutes for baking. In total, you’re looking at about 40 to 45 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick and satisfying side dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First things first, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will make sure your gratin cooks evenly and gets that beautiful, bubbly top.
2. Prepare the Baking Dish:
Lightly grease a baking dish with a little olive oil. This helps prevent sticking and keeps everything lovely and moist.
3. Sauté the Aromatics:
In a skillet over medium heat, warm 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Add the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté until they are soft and fragrant, which should take about 3-4 minutes. This adds a wonderful flavor base to your gratin. Once done, set aside.
4. Layer the Vegetables:
Start layering! Place a layer of zucchini slices evenly in the bottom of your greased baking dish. Follow with a layer of tomato slices on top of the zucchini. Look at those vibrant colors!
5. Add Flavor:
Now, sprinkle some of the sautéed onion and garlic over the tomatoes. Season with salt, pepper, and a bit of the chopped basil. This layering really builds the flavor!
6. Sprinkle the Cheeses:
Sprinkle a mix of Parmesan and mozzarella cheese over the top of this layer. Cheese makes everything better!
7. Continue Layering:
Keep repeating the layering process—zucchini, tomatoes, sautéed onion and garlic, basil, and cheese—until all your ingredients are used. Make sure to finish with a generous layer of cheese on top for that lovely crust!
8. Add Breadcrumbs:
If you’re using breadcrumbs, now’s the time to sprinkle them evenly over the top. This will add a delicious crunch when baked.
9. Drizzle with Olive Oil:
Drizzle the remaining olive oil over the surface. This will help everything brown beautifully.
10. Bake It:
Pop your dish into the preheated oven and let it bake for 25-30 minutes. You want the top to be golden brown and the vegetables tender. Your kitchen is about to smell amazing!
11. Cool and Serve:
Once done, carefully remove the gratin from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes before serving. This resting time helps everything set up a bit more.
12. Enjoy!
Now it’s time to dig in! This easy zucchini tomato gratin makes a perfect side dish or a delightful vegetarian main dish. Enjoy every cheesy, delicious bite!
FAQ for Easy Zucchini Tomato Gratin
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While Parmesan and mozzarella are great choices, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like gouda, fontina, or even feta for a tangy twist. Just keep in mind that different cheeses may alter the flavor profile and texture.
What Should I Do If I Have Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through for the best texture. You can also microwave it, but it may get a bit soggy!
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the gratin a day in advance! Assemble it completely, cover tightly with foil, and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, just add a few extra minutes to the baking time since it will be cold from the fridge.
What Else Can I Add to This Gratin?
You can definitely customize this dish! Feel free to toss in some sliced bell peppers, mushrooms, or even cooked ground meat for extra flavor and heartiness. Just remember to adjust the cooking time if adding ingredients that need to cook longer!
