Courgettes With Tomatoes And Herbs
A flavorful medley of tender courgettes topped with tomatoes, herbs, cheese, and breadcrumbs, perfect for a comforting vegetarian main or side dish with rich, savory notes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Bring the courgettes to the boil in salted water and cook for 3 minutes.
- Drain and place in an ovenproof dish.
- Heat butter in a pan, add tomatoes, onion, herbs, and salt, and cook until a thick mixture forms.
- Taste and adjust seasoning, then spoon the mixture over the courgettes.
- Sprinkle with grated Cheddar cheese and breadcrumbs.
- Bake at gas mark 4 (325°F) or 160°C for 20 to 25 minutes until golden and bubbling.
- Serve hot by itself or with beefburgers, chops, or steaks.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using fresh herbs like basil or oregano instead of dried herbs. If you want a lighter version, substitute the butter with olive oil and use a mix of mozzarella and Cheddar cheese. To enhance sweetness, add a pinch of sugar to the tomato mixture. Feel free to incorporate other vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for extra nutrition.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with beefburgers, chops, or steaks for a fulfilling meal. For a lighter option, serve it alongside a fresh Grape Cucumber Salad. It also makes an excellent side for Mediterranean recipes or can be enjoyed on its own as a vegetarian main dish.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, but the oven will keep the cheese crispy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Courgettes With Tomatoes And Herbs contains roughly 765 calories, with 8g protein, 48g carbohydrates, and 61g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (43% of the Daily Value) and iron (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1953mg per serving (85% of the Daily Value).
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 types of cheese instead of Cheddar?
Yes, you can substitute Cheddar with other cheeses like mozzarella, feta, or even goat cheese for a different flavor profile. Each cheese will provide a unique taste and texture, so choose one that complements the dish according to your preference.
What can I do if my tomato mixture is too watery?
If your tomato mixture turns out watery, simmer it longer to reduce the liquid or add a small amount of cornstarch mixed with cold water to thicken it. This will help achieve a thicker consistency before spooning it over the courgettes.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the courgettes and tomato mixture a day ahead. Store them separately in the refrigerator and assemble just before baking. This makes it a great option for meal prep or entertaining, as it saves time on the day.
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).