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Baked Zucchini Tomato Gratin is a culinary masterpiece that encapsulates the essence of Mediterranean cooking. This dish is a vibrant celebration of fresh, seasonal ingredients, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a healthy yet comforting meal option. The combination of tender zucchini and juicy tomatoes, layered harmoniously and baked to perfection, results in a gratin that is not only visually appealing but also tantalizing to the taste buds.

Baked Zucchini Tomato Gratin

Discover the deliciousness of Baked Zucchini Tomato Gratin, a Mediterranean-inspired dish that showcases the harmony of fresh zucchini and juicy tomatoes. This enticing gratin, layered with creamy mozzarella and nutty Parmesan, is complemented by a crispy breadcrumb topping for added texture. Perfect for any occasion, it’s a healthy yet satisfying meal that’s easy to make. Enjoy the vibrant flavors and comforting warmth of this delightful recipe that transforms simple ingredients into a culinary masterpiece.
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Ingredients
  

3 medium zucchinis, thinly sliced

3 large ripe tomatoes, thinly sliced

1 cup grated mozzarella cheese

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1/2 cup whole wheat breadcrumbs

2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1 teaspoon dried basil

Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure the gratin bakes evenly and achieves a perfect golden top.

    Prepare the Vegetables: In a large mixing bowl, combine the thinly sliced zucchinis and tomatoes. Generously sprinkle with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Let the mixture sit for about 10 minutes; this allows the vegetables to release excess moisture, which will enhance the flavor and texture of the gratin.

      Make the Garlic Oil: Within a small skillet, heat the extra virgin olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is warm, add the minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently until it becomes fragrant and golden. Be careful not to let it burn. Once done, remove from heat and set aside.

        Layer the Gratin: Take a greased baking dish and begin layering the vegetables. Arrange the zucchini and tomato slices in an alternating pattern, slightly overlapping each layer for a beautiful presentation.

          Season the Layers: Drizzle the fragrant garlic oil evenly over the layered vegetables. Then, sprinkle the dried oregano and dried basil across the top, ensuring an even distribution to infuse each layer with flavor.

            Add Cheese: Take half of the grated mozzarella cheese and evenly distribute it over the vegetable layers. Follow this with another layer of zucchini and tomatoes. Top this second layer with the remaining mozzarella cheese, ensuring an enticing cheesiness in every bite.

              Breadcrumb Topping: In a small bowl, combine the breadcrumbs with the grated Parmesan cheese, mixing well. Sprinkle this flavorful mixture generously over the top layer of vegetables and cheese to create a crispy, golden crust.

                Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to allow the vegetables to steam and cook through. Place it in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes. After this time, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the top is beautifully golden brown and the zucchini and tomatoes are tender.

                  Serve and Garnish: Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes. Just before serving, garnish with fresh basil leaves, adding a pop of color and a fresh aroma.

                    Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 20 min | 1 hr | Serves 4-6

                      - Presentation Tips: Serve the gratin directly in the baking dish for a rustic look, or scoop it onto individual plates. Pair with a side salad for a complete meal.