Zucchini Combo
A vibrant and flavorful zucchini and mushroom casserole topped with tomatoes and Parmesan, perfect for a quick, colorful, and satisfying vegetarian meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Slice the zucchini and combine with sliced fresh mushrooms in a 1 1/2-quart glass casserole.
- Sprinkle with garlic powder and salt.
- Dot with margarine or butter.
- Microwave, covered, for 7 to 8 minutes or until zucchini is tender.
- Stir in the cut tomato wedges and Parmesan cheese.
- Microwave, covered, for an additional 2 to 3 minutes, or until hot and cheese is melted.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider substituting olive oil for margarine, which can enhance the dish's richness. If you're short on time, pre-sliced mushrooms can save you some prep work. You can also use fresh herbs like basil or thyme to elevate the flavor. If zucchini isn't available, yellow squash works as a great alternative.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Zucchini Combo as a side dish alongside grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal. It also pairs beautifully with Autumn Corn Muffins for a comforting, hearty dinner. A light green salad or steamed green beans would complement it well, making it a satisfying vegetarian option.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave on medium power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating. You can also heat it in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water to prevent drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Zucchini Combo contains roughly 190 calories, with 7g protein, 12g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (33% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2063mg per serving (90% 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 instead of fresh?
While fresh zucchini is recommended for the best texture, frozen zucchini can be used in a pinch. However, be aware that it may release more water during cooking, so you might need to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
What can I substitute for Parmesan cheese?
If you need a dairy-free option, nutritional yeast can provide a cheesy flavor without the dairy. Alternatively, you can use Pecorino Romano or a similar hard cheese if you prefer a different taste profile.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, consider incorporating red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper along with the garlic powder. You can also serve it with a side of spicy salsa or hot sauce to allow guests to customize their heat level.
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).