Z.O.T.Ch.(Zucchini, Onions, Tomatoes And Cheese)
Z.O.T.Ch. combines fresh zucchini, onions, tomatoes, and cheese into a flavorful, comforting baked dish perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings with vibrant, savory tastes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt margarine in a frying pan.
- Saute zucchini and onions, a little at a time, until transparent or just beginning to brown. Transfer to an ovenproof casserole dish.
- Season with salt, pepper, and basil as you saute.
- Add chopped tomatoes to the zucchini mixture.
- Cover and cook at 325°F (160°C) for 45 minutes or microwave for 10 to 12 minutes.
- Remove from oven.
- Drain excess liquid with a turkey baster (save for soup).
- Top with grated cheese.
- Return to oven for 5 minutes (no cover) or microwave for 5 minutes, covered, until cheese melts.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a dollop of sour cream or cream cheese to the mixture before baking. You can substitute the Cheddar cheese with mozzarella for a milder flavor or use a dairy-free cheese if needed. Fresh herbs like basil or oregano can enhance the taste, while keeping the dish vegetarian. Make sure to slice the zucchini evenly for consistent cooking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Z.O.T.Ch. as a main dish or as a side alongside grilled meats or a fresh salad. It pairs beautifully with Fettuccine Salad or can be accompanied by a light yogurt-cucumber soup for a refreshing meal. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil for added color and flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. If reheating in the oven, cover with foil to prevent the cheese from browning too much.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Z.O.T.Ch.(Zucchini, Onions, Tomatoes And Cheese) contains roughly 336 calories, with 17g protein, 24g carbohydrates, and 22g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (98% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (78% of the Daily Value), and calcium (58% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 760mg per serving (33% 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
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, consider including red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños while sautéing the zucchini and onions. You could also sprinkle some cayenne pepper on top before baking. Adjust the amount to your heat preference for a delicious spicy kick.
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).