Description
Zucchini Pesto Bakes are a delicious, low-carb alternative to traditional baked dishes. Tender zucchini slices are layered with a flavorful pesto sauce, baked until golden and bubbly, and topped with cheese for the ultimate comfort food. These make a great side dish or a light, healthy main course for vegetarians and anyone looking to add more veggies to their meals.
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 medium zucchini, sliced into rounds
- 1/2 cup pesto sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×9-inch baking dish with olive oil or cooking spray.
- Arrange the zucchini slices in a single layer at the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
- Drizzle half of the pesto sauce over the zucchini slices, ensuring they are evenly coated.
- Sprinkle half of the grated Parmesan and shredded mozzarella cheeses over the zucchini.
- Repeat the process with another layer of zucchini, the remaining pesto sauce, and the remaining cheeses.
- Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the zucchini is tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the top is golden and slightly crispy.
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired and serve hot. Enjoy your Zucchini Pesto Bakes!
Notes
- If you prefer a dairy-free version, use a vegan pesto sauce and vegan cheese.
- For added texture, you can top the bakes with toasted breadcrumbs before the final bake.
- This dish can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Side Dish, Vegetarian
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of the dish
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 380mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 15mg