1. Preheat the Oven:
Set your oven to 200°C (390°F) to preheat while you prepare the ingredients.
2. Prepare the Vegetables:
Wash the zucchini and carefully slice them into finger-like strips, making sure to keep the base intact so the zucchini holds together like a fan.
Slice the tomatoes into thin rounds.
3. Arrange in the Baking Dish:
Gently fan out the zucchini slices in a baking dish. Tuck tomato slices in between the zucchini “fingers,” spacing them evenly.
4. Season the Vegetables:
Lightly sprinkle salt and smoked paprika over the arranged zucchini and tomato slices.
5. Make the Garlic Sour Cream:
In a small bowl, combine the sour cream with the minced garlic. Stir until well mixed.
6. Add the Sour Cream Mixture:
Spoon the garlic sour cream mixture evenly over the vegetables in the baking dish, making sure to cover the zucchini “fingers” and tomatoes.
7. Top with Cheese:
Generously sprinkle the grated cheese over the top of the zucchini and tomatoes.
8. Bake:
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.
9. Serve:
Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and allow it to cool slightly. Serve warm as a beautiful and delicious side dish or light meal.
Cooking Tips:
Cut Carefully: When slicing the zucchini, ensure that you don’t cut all the way through the base so that the “fingers” remain attached.
Cheese Variations: Mix and match different cheeses for added depth of flavor.
Sour Cream Alternatives: Greek yogurt can be used instead of sour cream for a lighter option.
Nutritional Benefits:
Zucchini: Low in calories, rich in vitamins, and high in fiber.
Tomatoes: Contain antioxidants like lycopene, which may help reduce the risk of certain diseases.
Cheese: Provides protein and calcium.
Dietary Information:
Vegetarian: Yes
Gluten-Free: Yes (ensure the sour cream is gluten-free)
Dairy-Free: No (contains cheese and sour cream)
Storage Tips:
Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Reheating: Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
Eye-Catching Presentation: The fan-like arrangement of zucchini creates a stunning dish.
Nutritious and Delicious: Fresh vegetables with a savory cheesy topping make for a wholesome dish.
Simple Ingredients: Easy to make with common ingredients found in most kitchens.
Conclusion:
This Baked Zucchini and Tomato Fan Casserole offers a unique twist on a classic vegetable bake, combining a beautiful presentation with a rich, savory flavor. Perfect as a side dish or a light meal, it brings together fresh, wholesome ingredients in a way that’s both nutritious and delicious. Give it a try for a meal that’s as pleasing to the eyes as it is to the palate!
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