Gratinated zucchini

Gratinated Zucchini with Cheese and Salami – A Simple and Delicious Recipe

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 60 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Welcome to your kitchen! Today I present a recipe that will transform simple zucchinis into a savory and attractive dish, perfect for the whole family. Gratinated zucchini with cheese and salami is an excellent choice for a quick and tasty meal, offering a perfect balance between the rich flavors of cheese and the slightly salty taste of salami. Additionally, this recipe is a wonderful opportunity to use the ingredients you have on hand without needing to visit the supermarket.

The history of zucchini as a culinary ingredient is linked to ancient gastronomic traditions, being used in various dishes over the centuries. Zucchini is appreciated not only for its delicate taste but also for its versatility in sweet or savory dishes. Together with cheese and salami, this recipe becomes a true feast of flavors.

Ingredients:

- 1 medium zucchini
- 3 slices of salami with ham
- 150-200 g sheep cheese
- 3 tablespoons grated Parmesan
- 80-100 g cheese
- 3 eggs
- 1 tomato
- Salt (to taste)
- Pepper (to taste)
- Dried basil (to preference)
- Fresh chopped dill

Step by step:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by washing the zucchini well under cold running water. Remove the ends and slice it into rounds about 1 cm thick. Sprinkle salt over the rounds and let them sit for 10-15 minutes to release excess water. This step is essential to prevent the dish from becoming too wet.

2. Cutting the ingredients: Meanwhile, cut the salami slices in half. You can cut the sheep cheese into cubes, making sure they are not too big or too small for even melting. Grate the cheese using a fine grater, which will allow it to melt nicely in the oven. After washing, cut the tomato into 6 slices.

3. Assembling the dish: Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. Grease a loaf pan with butter and line it with parchment paper. Place a first layer of zucchini, patting them with a kitchen towel to absorb excess water. Continue with a layer of cheese cubes, followed by the salami halves and a tablespoon of grated Parmesan. Repeat with another layer of zucchini and the remaining cheese.

4. Preparing the egg mixture: In a separate bowl, beat the 3 eggs, adding a little pepper and chopped dill. This combination will give a fresh flavor to your dish. Pour the egg mixture over the zucchini, ensuring even distribution.

5. Finalizing and baking: On top, add the grated cheese, tomato slices, and sprinkle a little dried basil for extra flavor. Place the dish in the preheated oven and let it bake for about 30-40 minutes until a golden and appetizing crust forms on top.

6. Serving the dish: Once the gratinated zucchini is ready, remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly. To avoid excess moisture, detach the dish from the parchment paper and place it on two kitchen towels to absorb any juices. You can serve this dish warm, alongside a fresh green salad or as a side dish with a main course.

Practical tips:

- Variations of ingredients: You can experiment with different types of salami or add other vegetables, such as bell peppers or mushrooms, to diversify the recipe. Each ingredient adds a personal touch to your dish.
- Cheese substitutions: If you don't have sheep cheese, you can use feta or mozzarella, each having a distinct taste but complementing zucchini well.
- For extra flavor: Add fresh herbs, such as basil or oregano, for a more intense taste.

Frequently asked questions:

- Can I use frozen zucchini? I advise using fresh zucchini, as frozen ones may release too much water and affect the texture of the dish.
- How can I tell when the dish is done? Check if a golden crust has formed on top and if the cheese is completely melted. You can do a toothpick test – if it comes out clean, the dish is ready.
- Is this recipe suitable for vegans? Yes, you can adapt the recipe using plant-based substitutes for cheese and eggs, such as tofu and vegan cheese.

Nutritional benefits:

Zucchini is an excellent source of vitamins and minerals, being rich in vitamins A and C. They also contain antioxidants that support immune system health. Cheese adds protein and calcium, while eggs contribute essential amino acids. This recipe is not only delicious but also nutritious, offering a healthy balance between proteins and vegetables.

I hope you enjoy this recipe for gratinated zucchini with cheese and salami, which will not only delight the taste buds of your loved ones but also bring a touch of warmth to your kitchen. Enjoy your meal!

 Ingredients: 1 zucchini, 3 slices of ham salami, 150-200 g of sheep cheese, 3 tablespoons of grated parmesan, 80-100 g of cheese, 3 eggs, 1 tomato, salt, pepper, dried basil, fresh dill

 Tags:  gratinated zucchini