Vegetable Gratin
A flavorful vegetable gratin with zucchini, tomato, and melted mozzarella, topped with crispy bread crumbs—perfect for a comforting vegetarian main or side dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a small bowl, combine mustard, olive oil, italian seasoning and garlic powder.
- Mix 1 tablespoon of mustard mixture with bread crumbs and set aside.
- Lightly grease a 9-inch pie plate and arrange a layer of half of the zucchini slices, overlapping them.
- Dot the zucchini layer with some of the mustard mixture.
- Layer half of the tomato slices on top, dot with mustard mixture, then sprinkle with shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Repeat the layers: zucchini, mustard mixture, tomatoes, and cheese.
- Bake uncovered at 400°F (200°C) for 30 minutes until vegetables are tender.
- Sprinkle the remaining bread crumbs over the top and bake for an additional 5 minutes until crumbs are golden brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding grated Parmesan cheese between the layers. If you want to enhance the dish, try incorporating sautéed spinach or mushrooms. Substitute yellow squash for zucchini if desired. To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free bread crumbs. You can also mix in some cooked quinoa for added texture and nutrition.
Serving Suggestions
This Vegetable Gratin pairs beautifully with a crisp salad, such as Easy Greek Salad, or served alongside protein like grilled chicken or fish. For a complete meal, consider offering a side of crusty bread or a light soup. It's perfect for a cozy family dinner or as a side dish for entertaining.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions in 30-second intervals until heated properly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Vegetable Gratin contains roughly 24 calories, with 1g protein, 2g carbohydrates, and 2g fat.
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 prepare the Vegetable Gratin in advance?
Yes, you can assemble the gratin a day ahead and refrigerate it before baking. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil. When ready to bake, remove the cover and add a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure it heats through properly.
What can I substitute for the low-fat mozzarella cheese?
You can use regular mozzarella for a creamier texture or even a dairy-free cheese alternative if you're looking for a vegan option. Goat cheese or feta can also provide a different flavor profile if you want to experiment.
How can I make this dish more filling?
To make the Vegetable Gratin more filling, consider adding cooked grains such as quinoa or farro between the layers. You can also include cooked lentils or beans for added protein, making it a heartier vegetarian dish.
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).