Caprese Zucchini Casserole

Caprese Zucchini Casserole

6
A summertime favorite--zucchini casserole--gets an Italian spin in this delicious and healthy side dish with tomatoes, mozzarella and basil. You can use zucchini or summer squash in this caprese-style casserole, or a combination of the two. A sprinkling of fresh basil and a drizzle of balsamic vinegar just before serving brightens up the flavors. Serve with grilled or roasted chicken and some quinoa, rice or couscous to soak up the juices from the casserole for a satisfying and easy dinner.

Ingredients

  • 2 medium zucchini and/or summer squash

    sliced

  • 2 medium tomatoes

    sliced

  • ¼ cup finely chopped shallot
  • ¼ cup chopped basil plus 2 tablespoons

    divided

  • 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon ground pepper
  • ¾ cup shredded fresh mozzarella cheese

    3 ounces

  • 1 dash Balsamic vinegar

Directions

  1. 1

    Preheat oven to 400 degrees F. Coat an 8-by-8- or 7-by-10-inch baking dish with cooking spray.

  2. 2

    Arrange squash and tomatoes decoratively, like rows of shingles (some may need to be cut in half), in the prepared dish.

  3. 3

    Combine shallot, 1/4 cup basil, oil, salt and pepper in a small bowl. Spoon the mixture over the vegetables. Sprinkle evenly with mozzarella. Bake until the vegetables are tender and the cheese has melted, about 30 minutes. Sprinkle with the remaining 2 tablespoons basil. Drizzle with balsamic vinegar, if desired.

Caprese Zucchini Casserole

Caprese Zucchini Casserole

55 min6

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About this Recipe

Craving a fresh, vibrant side dish that captures the essence of summer? This Caprese Zucchini Casserole takes a beloved classic and gives it an irresistible Italian twist, perfect for a healthy and satisfying meal that comes together in under an hour.

What makes this casserole truly shine is its elegant simplicity, allowing the peak-season ingredients to be the stars. By layering tender zucchini and/or summer squash with juicy tomatoes, creamy fresh mozzarella, and fragrant basil, you create a harmonious blend of textures and bright, garden-fresh flavors. It’s a smart way to enjoy abundant summer produce in a comforting, cheesy package that always impresses.

Prepare for a delightful balance in every forkful—the slightly sweet earthiness of the baked squash and tomatoes, beautifully complemented by the savory, melty fresh mozzarella. The finely chopped shallot adds a subtle aromatic depth without overpowering, while the generous addition of fresh basil offers that quintessential peppery, sweet aroma that truly encapsulates the Caprese spirit. This naturally flavorful dish is light enough for a warm evening yet satisfying, brimming with fresh produce and sunny, Italian-inspired flavors.

This recipe is wonderfully adaptable; you can easily use only zucchini, only summer squash, or a vibrant mix of both, depending on what you have on hand or what looks best at the market. To truly elevate the flavors and add that signature brightness, don't skip the final flourish: a generous sprinkle of fresh basil and a dash of good quality balsamic vinegar just before serving. These final touches truly awaken the flavors of the dish.

This healthy Caprese Zucchini Casserole is a fantastic companion to your favorite grilled or roasted chicken, making it a complete and balanced meal. For a truly satisfying dinner, serve it alongside some fluffy quinoa, rice, or couscous, which will eagerly soak up all the delicious, savory juices from the casserole. It’s an ideal choice for a laid-back weeknight dinner or a casual summer gathering with friends.

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