Zucchini Gratin with Yellow Squash is a delightful and creamy dish that’s perfect for a side dish or even a main course. The combination of tender zucchini and yellow squash, smothered in a rich, cheesy sauce and baked to perfection, is irresistible. This recipe is straightforward and easy to follow, making it a great addition to your dinner table. Let’s dive into this delicious Zucchini Gratin with Yellow Squash recipe.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/2 onion, thinly sliced
- 1 small zucchini, sliced in rounds 1/8 to 1/4 inch thick
- 1 small yellow squash, sliced in rounds 1/8 to 1/4 inch thick
- 2 large cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan
- 1 cup shredded smoked gouda
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables
- Slice the Vegetables: Thinly slice the zucchini and yellow squash into rounds about 1/8 to 1/4 inch thick. Thinly slice the half onion and mince the garlic cloves.
Step 3: Cook the Onion and Garlic
- Sauté Onion and Garlic: In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced onion and cook until it becomes soft and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
Step 4: Layer the Vegetables
- Layer the Vegetables: In a baking dish, arrange a layer of zucchini slices, followed by a layer of yellow squash slices. Continue layering until all the vegetables are used. Spread the sautéed onion and garlic evenly over the top of the layered vegetables.
Step 5: Prepare the Cream Sauce
- Make the Cream Sauce: In a small saucepan, heat 1/2 cup of heavy cream over medium heat until it just starts to simmer. Remove from heat and stir in the 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan until melted and well combined.
Step 6: Assemble the Gratin
- Pour the Cream Sauce: Pour the cream and Parmesan mixture evenly over the layered vegetables.
- Add Smoked Gouda: Sprinkle the 1 cup of shredded smoked gouda evenly over the top of the gratin.
Step 7: Bake the Gratin
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the vegetables are tender.
Step 8: Serve
- Serve: Let the Zucchini Gratin with Yellow Squash cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy it as a side dish with your favorite main course or as a vegetarian main dish.
Cooking Notes
- Vegetable Slicing: Ensure the zucchini and yellow squash are sliced evenly to ensure they cook uniformly. A mandoline slicer can be very helpful for this task.
- Cheese: Smoked gouda adds a wonderful flavor, but you can substitute it with other cheeses like Gruyère, cheddar, or mozzarella if you prefer.
- Cream: For a lighter version, you can use half-and-half instead of heavy cream, though the sauce will be less rich.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use other vegetables in this gratin? A: Yes, you can add or substitute other vegetables like eggplant, bell peppers, or mushrooms. Just make sure they are sliced thinly to ensure even cooking.
Q: How should I store leftovers? A: Store any leftover gratin in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time? A: Yes, you can assemble the gratin ahead of time and refrigerate it. When ready to bake, allow it to come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven.
Q: Can I use dairy-free alternatives? A: Yes, you can use dairy-free butter, cream, and cheese alternatives to make this recipe suitable for those with dairy allergies or lactose intolerance.
Keto/Low Carb Version
This recipe is already quite low in carbohydrates. However, to make it even more keto-friendly, you can replace the heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk and ensure the cheese used is low in carbs.
Zucchini Gratin with Yellow Squash is a simple yet flavorful dish that will delight your taste buds and add a touch of elegance to your meal. With its creamy, cheesy goodness and tender vegetables, it’s a perfect comfort food for any occasion.
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