Zucchini And Cheese Vegetable Dish
A hearty vegetable dish featuring tender zucchini and melted Muenster cheese, combined with savory stewed tomatoes and caramelized onions. This comforting meal is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy family gathering, offering a flavorful mix of freshness and cheesy richness.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Dice the onion and set aside.
- In a large frying pan, melt butter or margarine, or add water, then fry the onions until soft.
- Add the can of stewed tomatoes to the pan and bring to a boil.
- Peel the zucchini and slice it into rounds.
- Add the sliced zucchini to the tomato mixture.
- Season with salt, garlic salt, and/or garlic powder to taste.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook until the zucchini turns yellowish and is tender.
- Place the Muenster cheese over the top of the mixture, cover, and cook until the cheese melts.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider adding fresh herbs like basil or oregano to the dish. If Muenster cheese isn't available, alternatives like Monterey Jack or mozzarella can work well. For a vegan version, substitute the cheese with a plant-based cheese alternative or nutritional yeast. Avoid overcooking the zucchini to maintain its texture, similar to how you'd treat vegetables in traditional Southern fried dishes.
Serving Suggestions
This zucchini and cheese vegetable dish pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or fish for a balanced meal. Serve it alongside a fresh salad or with crusty bread to soak up the delicious tomato sauce. For a heartier option, consider serving it with Oatburgers or alongside Dilled Green Bean Bundles for a complete vegetarian plate.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the dish in a microwave-safe container and heat in short intervals until warmed through. Alternatively, reheat in a skillet over low heat to retain the texture of the zucchini and cheese.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Zucchini And Cheese Vegetable Dish contains roughly 422 calories, with 17g protein, 37g carbohydrates, and 23g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (34% of the Daily Value) and calcium (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1176mg per serving (51% 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 fresh tomatoes instead of canned stewed tomatoes?
Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes! About 4-5 medium-sized ripe tomatoes, peeled and diced, will work well. Just simmer them longer until they break down and create a sauce-like consistency before adding the zucchini.
Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
You can also freeze the dish for up to 2 months. Just ensure it's cooled completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container.
Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?
Yes, feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms to enhance the dish's flavor and nutrition. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure that all vegetables are tender and well-cooked.
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).