Description
These Cheesy Zucchini Steaks are a delicious and healthy dish featuring fresh zucchini topped with a crispy, cheesy blend. Easy to make and full of flavor, they serve as a perfect side or light main course.
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 medium zucchinis
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Wash the zucchinis thoroughly under cold water and pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel.
- Slice each zucchini into 1-inch thick rounds, aiming for about 4-5 slices per zucchini.
- Place the zucchini rounds on a clean kitchen towel or paper towels, sprinkle with a little salt, and let them sit for 10-15 minutes to draw out excess moisture.
- In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the shredded mozzarella cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Pat the zucchini rounds dry with a paper towel to remove excess salt and moisture.
- Drizzle 1 tablespoon of olive oil on a large baking sheet and spread it evenly.
- Arrange the zucchini rounds on the baking sheet in a single layer, ensuring they are not overlapping.
- Drizzle the remaining tablespoon of olive oil over the zucchini rounds.
- Generously spoon the cheese mixture over each zucchini round, pressing down slightly to adhere.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Let the cheesy zucchini steaks cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Optionally, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top for garnish.
- Serve warm as a side dish or light main course.
Notes
- For added heat, mix in some red pepper flakes into the cheese mixture.
- Consider adding chopped sun-dried tomatoes or olives for a Mediterranean twist.
- For a gluten-free option, substitute breadcrumbs with crushed gluten-free crackers or omit them for a lower-carb version.
- Experiment with different types of cheese like cheddar, gouda, or feta for varied flavors.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes