Brush Zucchini With Oil

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is the epitome of simple, healthy, and delicious. The zucchini, brushed with extra-virgin olive oil and seasoned with garlic powder, Italian herbs, and salt, becomes tender and flavorful. Adding the fresh tomato slices and melted mozzarella on top gives this dish a light yet satisfying texture that works well for a quick appetizer or a nutritious side dish. Plus, it’s easy to make with minimal ingredients, and it’s packed with nutrients, making it a perfect addition to any meal.

Ingredients

• 2 medium zucchini
• 15 ml extra-virgin olive oil
• 2 g fine sea salt
• 1 g freshly ground black pepper
• 2 g garlic powder
• 2 g dried Italian herbs
• 1 medium ripe tomato, thinly sliced
• 40 g mozzarella cheese, shredded

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven or Grill: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) if you’re roasting the zucchini, or prepare the grill for medium heat if you’re grilling.
2. Prepare the Zucchini: Wash the zucchini thoroughly. Slice each zucchini into rounds, about ½-inch thick.
3. Season the Zucchini: In a small bowl, combine the extra-virgin olive oil, fine sea salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and dried Italian herbs. Brush each zucchini slice with the oil and seasoning mixture, ensuring both sides are well coated.
4. Roast or Grill the Zucchini:
   • For roasting: Arrange the seasoned zucchini slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Roast in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the zucchini is tender and slightly golden.
   • For grilling: Place the zucchini slices on the grill and cook for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until they are tender and have grill marks.
5. Top with Tomato and Cheese: Once the zucchini is cooked, top each slice with a thin slice of ripe tomato. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese on top of the tomato slices.
6. Melt the Cheese:
   • If roasting: Return the zucchini to the oven for another 3-4 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
   • If grilling: Close the grill lid for 1-2 minutes to allow the cheese to melt.
7. Serve: Once the cheese is melted, remove the zucchini from the oven or grill, and serve immediately as a delicious and healthy side dish or snack.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 2-4
• Prep time: 5 minutes
• Cook time: 12-15 minutes (roasting) or 6-8 minutes (grilling)
• Total time: 20-25 minutes

Variations

• Vegan Option: To make this dish vegan, replace the mozzarella cheese with a plant-based cheese alternative or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy.
• Add Fresh Herbs: After baking or grilling, sprinkle fresh basil or parsley on top for a burst of fresh flavor.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or chili powder to the seasoning mix for a bit of heat.
• Other Vegetables: Try adding other vegetables like bell peppers, eggplant, or mushrooms to the grill or baking sheet for a more colorful, veggie-packed dish.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftover zucchini slices can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days.
• Reheating: To reheat, place the zucchini slices in a single layer on a baking sheet and heat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat them in the microwave for 1-2 minutes.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the zucchini slices and brush them with olive oil and seasoning ahead of time. Just cover them and refrigerate until you’re ready to cook them. However, it’s best to add the tomato and cheese just before cooking.

Can I use different cheese in this recipe?

Yes! If mozzarella isn’t your favorite, feel free to use other cheeses like Parmesan, cheddar, or even goat cheese. Just be sure to choose a cheese that melts well.

Can I make this recipe without tomatoes?

Yes, the tomatoes add a fresh and juicy element, but you can easily skip them if you prefer. The zucchini and cheese alone are still delicious!

How do I know when the zucchini is done cooking?

The zucchini should be tender but not mushy. It should have a slight golden color and be easy to pierce with a fork or knife. If grilling, it should have nice grill marks and be soft to the touch.

Can I use other herbs instead of Italian seasoning?

Yes, you can customize the herbs to your liking. Fresh or dried basil, oregano, thyme, or rosemary would all be great substitutes or additions to the seasoning mix.

Can I grill the zucchini if I don’t have a grill?

Yes, if you don’t have a grill, you can use a grill pan on the stovetop or simply roast the zucchini in the oven. Both methods will give you great results.

How do I prevent the zucchini from becoming soggy?

Make sure to dry the zucchini slices before brushing with oil, and avoid overcrowding them when roasting or grilling. This ensures they cook evenly and stay crisp.

Can I freeze the zucchini slices?

While it’s best to enjoy the zucchini fresh, you can freeze the cooked slices. However, the texture may change slightly upon thawing. To freeze, place the slices on a baking sheet, freeze them individually, and then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. Reheat in the oven for the best results.

How do I make this dish more filling?

You can add some cooked quinoa, couscous, or rice on the side to make this a more substantial meal. You can also serve it with a protein like grilled chicken or tofu.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as it only involves vegetables, cheese, and seasonings, which makes it a great option for those following a gluten-free diet.

Conclusion

This Brush Zucchini With Oil recipe is a simple, healthy, and flavorful way to enjoy zucchini. Whether you choose to roast it or grill it, the combination of olive oil, garlic, Italian herbs, tomato, and mozzarella creates a deliciously satisfying dish. Perfect as a side or snack, this recipe is not only quick and easy to prepare but also customizable to suit your taste preferences. Try it today and enjoy the light yet hearty goodness of fresh zucchini!

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