Tomato And Zucchini Gratin
A flavorful tomato and zucchini gratin layered with rice and Parmesan, baked until golden, perfect for a hearty vegetarian main or side dish with Mediterranean flair.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large frying pan over medium heat, sauté the sliced onion in olive oil for 2 minutes.
- Add the zucchini slices; sauté until tender, about 4 minutes.
- Stir in the dried thyme and dried basil.
- Remove from the heat and coat a 1 1/2-quart casserole dish with nonstick spray.
- Layer half of the cooked rice in the dish.
- Top with half of the sautéed zucchini and half of the sliced tomato.
- Sprinkle with half of the grated Parmesan cheese.
- Repeat the layers with the remaining rice, zucchini, tomato, and cheese.
- Bake at 350°F for 15 minutes, or until heated through and lightly browned.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider incorporating some garlic while sautéing the onions. You can also substitute the zucchini with other summer squash or even sautéed eggplant for a different twist. If you want a richer flavor, try using Gruyère cheese instead of Parmesan. Make sure to slice the vegetables evenly for consistent cooking.
Serving Suggestions
This Tomato and Zucchini Gratin pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal. Serve alongside a fresh green salad for a light lunch or dinner. For a vegetarian option, enjoy it with a side of quinoa or crusty bread. Browse more Mediterranean recipes for additional inspiration.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F and bake covered with foil for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quicker option, ensuring they are heated evenly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tomato And Zucchini Gratin contains roughly 638 calories, with 10g protein, 58g carbohydrates, and 42g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (46% of the Daily Value) and protein (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 625mg per serving (27% 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 vegetables in this gratin?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or even spinach. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the vegetables you choose to ensure everything is tender and flavorful.
Can this dish be made ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the gratin a day in advance. Just cover it tightly with foil and store it in the refrigerator. When you're ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven to ensure even cooking.
Is it possible to make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, you can easily make this gratin gluten-free by using a gluten-free rice option. Additionally, check that the Parmesan cheese you use is labeled gluten-free, as some brands might have cross-contamination. Enjoy this delicious dish without worry!
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).