- Summer Squash: Opt for zucchini or yellow squash for a delicious, seasonal flavor.
- Mozzarella Cheese: Use fresh mozzarella for the best texture and taste; look for "part-skim" for reduced fat content while maintaining great flavor.
- Parmesan Cheese: Grated parmesan adds an extra layer of depth to your dish. Ensure it's aged for optimal flavor.
- Fresh Herbs: Basil or parsley can be added for a fragrant touch. Consider using dried herbs as a substitute if fresh is not available.
- Garlic Powder: A pinch can enhance the savory notes in this recipe.
- Salt and Pepper: To taste, adjust according to your preference for seasoning.
- Olive Oil: For brushing the squash slices; extra virgin olive oil provides heart-healthy benefits.
- Egg (Optional): Adding an egg can help bind ingredients together, ensuring a more cohesive texture. Use one whole egg or two egg whites for a lighter option.
These ingredients will help you create a flavorful and visually appealing baked summer squash cheese dish that's perfect for warm weather meals or as a side dish to complement your main course.
Steps
### Baked Summer Squash Cheese Recipe: A Delicious Side Dish
Looking for a vibrant, flavorful side dish that's perfect for your summer gatherings? Try this baked summer squash cheese recipe! This dish is not only packed with delicious ingredients but also incredibly easy to make. Follow these detailed steps and enjoy the perfect combination of tender summer squash and rich cheese.
#### Ingredients:
- 2 medium-sized summer squashes (such as zucchini or yellow squash)
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that everything cooks evenly and gets a nice, golden-brown finish.
2. **Prepare the Summer Squash:**
- Wash the summer squash thoroughly under running water.
- Trim off the ends of each squash and cut them into thin rounds or half-moons, about 1/4 inch thick. This helps ensure even cooking and makes for easier handling.
3. **Mix Cheesy Herbs:**
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese.
- Add chopped fresh herbs and minced garlic to the bowl. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
4. **Seasoning and Brushing:**
- Season both sides of each squash slice with salt and pepper. This enhances the flavors significantly.
- Lightly brush each slice with olive oil on one side only; this will help the cheese stick better during baking.
5. **Assembling the Dish:**
- Place a layer of olive-oiled slices onto a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
- Spoon about 1-2 tablespoons of the cheesy herb mixture over each slice, ensuring it's evenly distributed.
- Cover the filled slices with an unbrushed side.
6. **Baking:**
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown on top.
- For extra flavor, you can broil the dish for a minute at the end to get a nice caramelization effect.
7. **Serving:**
- Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. This ensures that the cheese isn’t too hot to handle.
### Tips:
- Using fresh herbs adds freshness and depth of flavor, making this dish stand out.
- You can experiment with different types of cheese or even add some crushed red pepper for a spicy twist!
Enjoy your delicious and healthy baked summer squash cheese as a delightful side dish at your next meal. This recipe is perfect not only for summer but also any time you're looking to incorporate more vegetables into your diet.
By following these detailed steps and tips, you'll be able to create a tasty, nutritious, and visually appealing dish that’s sure to impress your guests.