Cheesy Garlic Zucchini Steaks Recipe

Cook Time: 25 minutes

This simple yet delicious dish combines tender zucchini with melted cheese and crispy fried garlic for a delightful bite. Its perfect as a side dish or light meal.

Ingredients

• 1 zucchini
• 1 pinch salt
• 2 ounces shredded mozzarella
• 1 ounce ricotta cheese
• 2 teaspoons fried garlic

Directions

1. Start by cutting the zucchini in half lengthwise, then cut each half diagonally into smaller pieces.
2. If you prefer, you can slice a thin strip off the back of each zucchini piece to create a flat surface, which helps the zucchini sit steady on the baking tray.
3. Place the zucchini pieces on a baking tray in a single layer.
4. Sprinkle the zucchini with a pinch of salt and allow it to sit for about 15 minutes to draw out excess moisture.
5. After 15 minutes, gently blot the surface of the zucchini with a paper towel to remove the moisture.
6. Preheat your oven to 375F (190C). This will ensure the zucchini cooks evenly and the cheese melts perfectly.
7. In a small bowl, combine the shredded mozzarella and ricotta cheese. Stir them together until theyre well mixed.
8. Dollop the cheese mixture generously onto the zucchini pieces.
9. Sprinkle the fried garlic over the cheese-topped zucchini for an extra burst of flavor.
10. Place the tray in the preheated oven and bake for about 25 minutes, or until the zucchini is tender and the cheese is bubbly and golden.
11. Remove from the oven and serve immediately. Enjoy your cheesy, garlic-infused zucchini!

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Calories: 125
• Total Fat: 7g (9% Daily Value)
• Saturated Fat: 4g (20% Daily Value)
• Cholesterol: 23mg (8% Daily Value)
• Sodium: 277mg (12% Daily Value)
• Total Carbohydrate: 7g (2% Daily Value)
• Dietary Fiber: 1g (4% Daily Value)
• Total Sugars: 2g
• Protein: 10g (19% Daily Value)
• Vitamin C: 14mg (15% Daily Value)
• Calcium: 265mg (20% Daily Value)
• Iron: 1mg (3% Daily Value)
• Potassium: 331mg (7% Daily Value)

Note: Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000-calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

History of the Dish

The Cheesy Garlic Zucchini Steaks recipe, while contemporary in nature, draws upon the longstanding tradition of baked vegetables in Mediterranean and Italian cuisine. Zucchini, or courgette, is a staple in Italian cooking, often used in pastas, stews, and gratins. The combination of zucchini with cheese and garlic, in particular, is a nod to classic Italian flavors. In the modern American culinary scene, this dish has gained popularity as a low-carb, vegetarian alternative to traditional meat steaks, providing a satisfying and flavorful side dish or main course.

Regional Variations

Zucchini is a versatile vegetable found in many regional cuisines. In the Mediterranean, zucchini is often grilled or roasted, while in Italy, it frequently appears in stuffed, baked, or sauted dishes. The Cheesy Garlic Zucchini Steaks recipe stands out as a variation of these traditional preparations, emphasizing cheese, garlic, and a baking technique that gives the vegetable a rich, savory taste. While the recipe may not be specific to one particular region, the flavors align with those commonly found in southern European cuisines, particularly in Italy and Greece.

How It Differs from Similar Dishes

Unlike traditional vegetable gratins or baked zucchini dishes, which may rely heavily on breadcrumbs or butter, this recipe focuses on a cheesy, garlic-infused topping that gives it a unique texture and flavor profile. The use of ricotta and mozzarella cheese, combined with fried garlic, offers a creamy, slightly tangy contrast to the soft texture of the roasted zucchini. This differs from other zucchini-based dishes that may be more watery or rely on cream sauces. Additionally, by cutting the zucchini into thick "steaks," this recipe creates a heartier, more substantial dish compared to thinly sliced versions.

Where It's Commonly Served

Cheesy Garlic Zucchini Steaks are typically served as a side dish or a vegetarian main course. They pair wonderfully with grilled meats, making them a popular choice at summer barbecues. Due to their light yet flavorful nature, they are also commonly found on dinner tables as a healthy, satisfying alternative to starchy side dishes like mashed potatoes or pasta. Given their Mediterranean-inspired flavors, they are often served in both casual and more formal dining settings, particularly in vegetarian or health-conscious restaurants.

Fun Facts

• Zucchini is part of the squash family and is native to the Americas, but it became popular in European cooking after being introduced by early explorers.
• While zucchini is often considered a vegetable, it is botanically a fruit because it develops from the flower of the zucchini plant.
• The term "steak" in this recipe is a playful reference to the thick slices of zucchini, which are given a hearty texture similar to that of a meat steak when baked with cheese.
• Garlic, a key ingredient in this dish, has been used for centuries not only for its strong flavor but also for its medicinal properties, believed to help with everything from digestive health to lowering blood pressure.

FAQ about Cheesy Garlic Zucchini Steaks Recipe