Zucchini and squash, those humble garden gems, often remind me of summer afternoons at my grandma’s place—her kitchen smelled like a farmer’s market, earthy and vibrant. This recipe captures that nostalgic aroma, blending garlic and parmesan into a savory melody (or maybe a symphony?) that dances across your taste buds. It’s simple, yet somehow feels like a warm hug on a plate, inviting you back for more.
Steps
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Prepare a large baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
- In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, minced garlic, and Italian seasoning. Allow the mixture to rest for 5-10 minutes so the flavors can meld.
- Cut the zucchini and squash into 1/2-inch thick slices and halve the tomatoes. Place all the vegetables in a large mixing bowl.
- Drizzle the olive oil mixture over the vegetables and gently toss them with your hands until they are evenly coated.
- Spread the coated vegetables in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Season them with salt and pepper to taste.
- Evenly sprinkle shredded Parmesan cheese over the top of the vegetables.
- Roast the vegetables in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes until they are tender and the Parmesan has turned golden brown.
- Optional: garnish with fresh or dried parsley before serving the dish warm.
Ingredients
- parmesan zucchini, squash, and tomatoes dish:
- 2 small zucchini (approximately 1 lb), sliced into 1/2-inch thick pieces
- 2 small yellow squash (approximately 1 lb), sliced into 1/2-inch thick pieces
- 14 oz of Flavorino or small Campari tomatoes, halved
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced (equivalent to about 1 1/2 tablespoons)
- 1 1/4 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup (2.4 oz) finely shredded Parmesan cheese
- Fresh or dried parsley for garnish (optional)
Nutritional Values
Calories 1008 | Calories from Fat 594 | Fat 66g | Saturated Fat 18g | Cholesterol 66mg | Sodium 1668mg | Potassium 3450mg | Carbohydrates 48g | Fiber 12g | Sugar 30g | Protein 48g | Vitamin A 5910IU | Vitamin C 216.6mg | Calcium 1422mg | Iron 6.6mg
FAQ
- Can I use other types of cheese instead of Parmesan?
- Yes, you can substitute Parmesan with freshly grated Romano cheese for a different flavor profile.
- What other vegetables can I roast using this recipe?
- Besides zucchini, squash, and tomatoes, you can try roasting fennel, bell peppers, eggplant, broccoli, cauliflower, green beans, or asparagus.
- How do I add more flavor to the roasted vegetables?
- You can enhance the taste by incorporating additional herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme, or spices such as red pepper flakes, paprika, and chili powder.
- Is it necessary to use parchment paper or aluminum foil on the baking sheet?
- While not absolutely necessary, using parchment paper or aluminum foil helps with easy cleanup and prevents the vegetables from sticking to the sheet.
- Can this dish be prepared ahead of time?
- You can prepare the olive oil mixture and cut the vegetables in advance. However, for the best taste and texture, it’s recommended to roast the vegetables just before serving.
Tips
- Infuse Flavor into Oil: Allow the olive oil, garlic, and Italian seasoning mixture to rest for 5-10 minutes before using. This will help the flavors mingle and enhance the overall taste of the dish.
- Uniform Slicing for Even Cooking: Cut the zucchini and squash into uniform 1/2-inch thick slices. This ensures that the vegetables cook evenly and are tender at the same time.
- Use Parchment Paper or Foil for Easy Cleanup: Line your baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil. This not only prevents sticking but also makes cleanup much easier.
- Experiment with Additional Herbs and Spices: Consider incorporating other herbs like oregano or basil, or spices like red pepper flakes, to add a unique twist to the dish and tailor it to your taste preferences.
Equipment
- Parmesan Zucchini, Squash, and Tomatoes recipe that you might need to purchase:
- Rimmed Baking Sheet (18 by 13-inch)
- Parchment Paper or Aluminum Foil
- Mixing Bowl
- Whisk
