Zucchini gratin, an elegant dish that’s often forgotten, is about to take the culinary world by storm once again. This classic French delicacy, with its layers of tender zucchini and creamy, cheesy sauce, is simply too good to be relegated to the past. 🇫🇷🧀🥒
Sometimes referred to as the “forgotten gratin,” zucchini gratin doesn’t always get the credit it deserves. But once tried, it’s definitely unforgettable. It’s time to bring back the glory of this gratin, the one that nobody remembers yet everyone loves.
The Zucchini: A Summer Squash Saga
Yes, it’s about time the humble zucchini got its due. Often overlooked in favor of its squash siblings, zucchini shines in a gratin. With its tender texture and mild flavor, zucchini plays nicely with the rich, robust flavors of the cheese and cream. It’s a gastronomic match made in heaven! 😇
Tip: Choose firm, small to medium zucchinis. They have a sweeter taste and fewer seeds.
Cheesy Dreams Come True
Gratin is synonymous with comfort food. It’s the culinary equivalent of a warm hug, a plush blanket, or a favorite old movie. It’s that “aaaah” feeling after the first bite of a creamy, cheesy, perfectly browned gratin. Bliss! 🧀💭
Tip: Choose a good melting cheese like Gruyère or Cheddar for the best results.
So, if anyone ever asks, “Why zucchini gratin?” The answer is, “Why not?” With its ease of preparation, comforting flavors, and fancy French pedigree, zucchini gratin is a dish worth remembering. 🎩
Remember, a good zucchini gratin is creamy, cheesy, and features a golden, crispy top layer. It’s the epitome of “simple yet sophisticated” culinary elegance. It’s a meal that’s always satisfying, never disappointing. And that’s why it deserves to be remembered.
Tip: Don’t forget to season each layer of zucchini for an evenly flavored gratin.
Zucchini Gratin
Course: DinnerCuisine: French4
servings30
minutes40
minutes300
kcalAn easy and delicious Zucchini Gratin recipe that’s perfect for weeknight dinners and elegant enough for special occasions.
Ingredients
4 medium zucchinis, sliced
2 cups grated Gruyère cheese
1 cup heavy cream
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large bowl, combine the sliced zucchinis, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat the zucchini slices evenly.
- Arrange a layer of zucchini in a baking dish. Sprinkle a layer of cheese on top, then pour a bit of cream over the cheese.
- Repeat the layers until all the zucchini, cheese, and cream are used up, ending with a layer of cheese on top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 40 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
- Let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your zucchini gratin while it’s hot!
Notes
- For a lighter version, replace half of the cream with milk.
- You can also add other vegetables like thinly sliced tomatoes or bell peppers for a variation.
- This zucchini gratin pairs well with grilled meat or fish.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use other types of cheese in this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use any good melting cheese like Cheddar, Fontina, or Mozzarella. However, the flavor will change slightly depending on the type of cheese used.
Q: Can I make this gratin vegan?
A: Yes, you can substitute the cheese with vegan cheese and use coconut cream instead of heavy cream. But remember, the flavor and texture may not be exactly the same.
Q: Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can assemble the gratin ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Bake it just before serving.
A: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheated in the oven or microwave. It’s best to consume it within 2-3 days.