Herb-Infused Zucchini Delight

Herb-Infused Zucchini Delight

Ingredients:

• • 4 zucchini, sliced
  • 4 tomatoes, sliced
  • 1 liter water

• • Salt
  • Olive oil
  • Fresh basil leaves

• • 150g spinach, chopped
  • 100g cheese, grated (any melty cheese you like!)
  • 1 clove garlic, minced

• • Provençal herbs (to taste)
  • 200g mozzarella cheese, cubed
  • Marinara sauce (store-bought or your own recipe – see below)

• • 40g Parmesan cheese, grated
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, chopped

• • 1 red pepper, chopped
  • 200g cherry tomatoes, halved
  • Vegetable oil

• 3 tablespoons tomato paste
• Salt, pepper, paprika

Directions:

1. Prep the zucchini: Whisk salt into water and soak zucchini slices for 15-20 minutes. Drain and pat dry.

2. Layer the first half: Line a baking dish with baking paper. Drizzle olive oil and arrange half the zucchini slices. Top with basil, tomatoes, salt, pepper, and Provençal herbs.

3. Spinach and cheese layer: Mix chopped spinach, grated cheese, minced garlic, and Provençal herbs. Spread half over the vegetables.

4. Finish layering: Top with half the mozzarella cubes, marinara sauce, remaining zucchini, remaining spinach mixture, remaining mozzarella, and another layer of marinara sauce.

5. Bake: Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and bake at 200°C for 30 minutes.

6. Sauté (optional): While the casserole bakes, heat oil in a pan. Sauté onion, garlic, and red pepper for a few minutes. Add cherry tomatoes, cook for a few more minutes, then stir in tomato paste, salt, pepper, and paprika. Blend the mixture into a sauce.

7. Assemble and bake again: After 30 minutes, take out the casserole. Top with the optional sautéed sauce and bake another 10-15 minutes, or until bubbly and golden brown.

8. Serve and enjoy! Let cool slightly before serving.

Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 45 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes | Kcal: 320 kcal | Servings: 6 servings

Tips and Tricks:

1. Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh zucchini, tomatoes, and basil make a big difference in the flavor of this dish. Try to get the freshest produce available.

2. Cheese Selection: For a richer flavor, use a combination of cheeses. Mozzarella adds a great melty texture, while Parmesan provides a nice sharpness.

3. Layering Technique: Be sure to layer the ingredients evenly to ensure each bite is packed with flavor. Press down gently after each layer to compact the ingredients.

4. Homemade Marinara: For an extra homemade touch, prepare your own marinara sauce. Sauté onions and garlic in olive oil, add crushed tomatoes, and simmer with salt, pepper, and a pinch of sugar for 20 minutes.

5. Herb Varieties: Feel free to experiment with different herbs. Thyme, oregano, or rosemary can add unique flavors to the dish.

6. Leftovers: This casserole tastes even better the next day. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge and reheat in the oven or microwave.

7. Serving Suggestion: Pair this casserole with a light green salad and crusty bread for a complete meal.

8. Vegan Option: To make this dish vegan, use plant-based cheese and ensure your marinara sauce is free of animal products.