Baked Caesar Zucchini
A flavorful baked zucchini and tomato dish topped with cheese and seasoned croutons, perfect for a light, nutritious meal or side that appeals to vegetable lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine peeled and diced tomatoes and diced or thinly sliced zucchini in an ovenproof baking dish.
- Sprinkle with minced onion, oregano or Italian seasoning, basil, red pepper flakes, shredded Provolone cheese, and seasoned salad croutons.
- Bake uncovered at 400°F for 35 minutes or until the top is well browned.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider mixing in some chopped garlic or bell peppers with the zucchini and tomatoes. If you prefer a different cheese, Feta or Mozzarella can work well too. You can also use frozen zucchini if fresh is unavailable; just make sure to drain excess moisture before baking. For a twist, try adding anchovy paste for a more traditional Caesar flavor.
Serving Suggestions
This Baked Caesar Zucchini makes a great side dish for grilled meats or fish. It pairs beautifully with Mediterranean recipes and can be served alongside a light salad, such as Fall Salad With Parmesan Dressing. For a complete meal, consider serving it with crusty bread to soak up the delicious juices or a side of Pasta With Broccoli And Garbanzo Beans.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15 minutes until warmed through. You can also microwave it for a quicker option, heating in 30-second intervals until hot, but this may affect the crispiness of the toppings.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Baked Caesar Zucchini contains roughly 69 calories, with 2g protein, 14g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (29% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and calcium. It also contributes 6g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other vegetables in this recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to add or substitute other vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the vegetables you choose. Aim for a mix that will roast well together for the best flavor and texture.
Is this dish suitable for a vegetarian diet?
Yes, this Baked Caesar Zucchini is vegetarian-friendly as it contains no meat. Just ensure that the croutons and cheese you choose are also vegetarian, as some may contain animal rennet. It's a nutritious and delicious option for anyone following a vegetarian diet.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the dish ahead of time by assembling it and storing it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap or a lid. When you're ready to cook, remove it from the fridge and bake it as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time if it's still cold.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).