Tomato Zucchini Casserole
A flavorful baked casserole featuring tender zucchini, tomatoes, and onions layered with herbs and cheese, perfect for a comforting vegetarian main or side dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Rub the casserole dish with butter.
- Line the dish with a layer of zucchini, onion, and sliced tomatoes; sprinkle with 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1 teaspoon basil, and 2 tablespoons Parmesan cheese.
- Dot the layered mixture with butter.
- Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with a top layer of salt, basil, cheese, and butter.
- Bake uncovered at 375°F for 45 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using fresh herbs like thyme or oregano instead of basil. If you're short on Parmesan, a mix of mozzarella and cheddar can work well too. Pre-salting the zucchini for 15 minutes can help remove excess moisture, ensuring a firmer casserole. This dish is versatile; feel free to include other vegetables from your garden or local Farmer's Market Vegetable Bowl.
Serving Suggestions
This Tomato Zucchini Casserole pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or crusty bread. For a heartier meal, serve it alongside grilled chicken or fish. You can also enjoy it as a side with Mediterranean recipes, complementing the flavors with a light vinaigrette or yogurt sauce for an extra layer of taste.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions, but be cautious not to overcook, which may make the zucchini mushy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tomato Zucchini Casserole contains roughly 321 calories, with 10g protein, 39g carbohydrates, and 14g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (50% of the Daily Value) and protein (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2282mg per serving (99% 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 frozen zucchini for this casserole?
While fresh zucchini provides the best texture, you can use frozen zucchini if necessary. Make sure to thaw and drain it well to remove excess water before layering in the casserole. However, fresh zucchini will yield a firmer and more flavorful result.
What can I substitute for Parmesan cheese?
If you're looking for a substitute for Parmesan cheese, consider using Pecorino Romano for a sharper flavor, or a mix of mozzarella and nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option. These alternatives add a nice depth to the dish while still keeping it delicious.
How can I make this dish vegan?
To make this casserole vegan, substitute the Parmesan cheese with a plant-based cheese or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor. Use olive oil instead of butter or margarine for greasing the dish and dotting the layers. This will create a delicious vegan version without compromising on taste.
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).