Roasted Garlic-Parmesan Zucchini, Squash, and Tomatoes
Welcome back to the kitchen, where today we’re diving into a recipe that celebrates the vibrant flavors of summer produce: Roasted Garlic-Parmesan Zucchini, Squash, and Tomatoes. This delightful dish combines the earthy sweetness of zucchini and squash with the juicy tanginess of ripe tomatoes, all elevated by the rich, nutty notes of roasted garlic and Parmesan cheese. Whether you’re a seasoned home chef looking to impress your dinner guests or a busy parent searching for a quick and nutritious weeknight meal, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your culinary repertoire.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is perfect for anyone who appreciates the simplicity of seasonal ingredients and the bold flavors that can be coaxed from them with just a few simple techniques. It’s a fantastic way to showcase the bounty of summer produce, whether you’ve picked it up from your local farmer’s market or harvested it from your own backyard garden. Additionally, this dish is incredibly versatile and can easily be customized to suit your preferences or dietary restrictions.
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
To bring this recipe to life, you’ll need the following kitchen equipment:
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper or aluminum foil
- Sharp knife
- Cutting board
- Mixing bowl
- Spoon or spatula for tossing
- Oven
Ingredients
- 2 medium zucchini, sliced into rounds
- 2 medium yellow squash, sliced into rounds
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs (such as basil or parsley) for garnish
Step-by-step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced zucchini, squash, and cherry tomatoes.
- Add the minced garlic, olive oil, and grated Parmesan cheese to the bowl, tossing gently to coat the vegetables evenly.
- Spread the vegetables out in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and caramelized, stirring halfway through.
- Once roasted, remove the baking sheet from the oven and transfer the vegetables to a serving dish.
- Garnish with fresh herbs and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese if desired.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Tips for Success
- Ensure your vegetables are cut into evenly sized pieces to promote even cooking.
- Stir the vegetables halfway through roasting to prevent them from sticking and to ensure even caramelization.
Additional Tips and Variations
- Feel free to experiment with different vegetables like bell peppers or eggplant. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.
- For a vegan version, omit the Parmesan or replace it with a vegan cheese alternative.
Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)
- Calories: Approximately 120
- Protein: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fat: 7g
- Fiber: 3g
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I use other vegetables in this recipe?
A: Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different seasonal vegetables, such as bell peppers, eggplant, or onions. Just be mindful of varying cooking times and adjust accordingly.
Q: I’m vegan. Can I omit the Parmesan cheese?
A: Of course! While the Parmesan adds a delicious nuttiness to the dish, it’s not essential. You can simply leave it out or substitute it with your favorite vegan cheese alternative.
Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: While the vegetables are best when served fresh from the oven, you can certainly prep them ahead of time and roast them when you’re ready to eat. Simply store the prepped vegetables in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook them.
Conclusion
Roasted Garlic-Parmesan Zucchini, Squash, and Tomatoes is a simple yet elegant dish that celebrates the flavors of summer in every bite. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply craving a healthy and delicious meal, this recipe is sure to satisfy. So don’t hesitate to give it a try, and be sure to share the recipe with your friends and family. And don’t forget to subscribe to our blog for more mouthwatering recipes and culinary inspiration!
