Gratinated Zucchini

Gratinated Zucchini – a simple and delicious recipe

Total time: 40 minutes
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 20 minutes
Servings: 4

I propose a savory recipe for gratinated zucchini, a perfect dish for a light dinner or a delicious lunch. These gratinated zucchinis are full of flavor and can be adapted according to your preferences. Whether you choose to add more cheese or replace salami with ham, this recipe is definitely a hit in any kitchen.

Ingredients:
- 3 small zucchinis
- 1 onion
- 1 clove of garlic
- 50 g salami (or ham)
- 50 g cheese (you can also use feta or mozzarella, depending on preference)
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 2 tablespoons breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 1 tablespoon sour cream
- Salt and pepper to taste

Preparation:

1. Preparing the zucchinis: Start by peeling the zucchinis. Cut them in half lengthwise and carefully scoop out the flesh using a teaspoon or a knife. Make sure to leave an edge of about 1 cm to maintain their shape during baking.

2. Blanching the zucchinis: Boil a pot of salted water. Once the water is boiling, add the scooped zucchinis and blanch them for 5 minutes. This step will help soften them, allowing for even baking. After removing them from the water, drain well and set aside.

3. Preparing the filling: In a pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and crushed garlic. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent and fragrant. Then, add diced salami and sauté for another 2 minutes.

4. Mixing the ingredients: In a bowl, combine the onion and salami mixture with the scooped zucchini flesh, crumbled cheese, egg, sour cream, salt, and pepper. Mix the composition well. This will be the delicious filling for the zucchinis.

5. Filling the zucchinis: Preheat the oven to 180°C. Fill each half of the zucchini with the prepared mixture, pressing down well to avoid air pockets.

6. Finalizing the dish: Sprinkle breadcrumbs on top of the filled zucchinis to achieve a crispy crust. You can add a bit of grated cheese for extra flavor.

7. Baking: Place the filled zucchinis in a baking dish and bake for 20 minutes, or until golden and crispy.

8. Serving: Once the gratinated zucchinis are ready, let them cool slightly and serve warm, alongside a fresh salad. They can be a perfect accompaniment to meat or served as a vegetarian main dish.

Practical tips:
- Choose fresh, small zucchinis for a tastier and easier-to-eat dish.
- You can add herbs like basil or oregano to the filling for an even more intense flavor.
- Instead of salami, you can use roasted vegetables or mushrooms for a vegetarian option.
- If you want a spicy flavor, add some chopped chili pepper to the filling.

Enjoy this simple recipe for gratinated zucchinis, full of flavor and versatility!

 Ingredients: 3 small zucchinis, 1 onion, 1 clove of garlic, 50 g of salami (or ham), 50 g of burduf cheese (you can add more, but that's all I had), butter, breadcrumbs, 1 egg, 1 tablespoon of sour cream, salt, pepper