Cheesy Baked Zucchini Recipe

🧀 Cheesy Baked Zucchini Recipe (Vegetarian & Delicious)

🥒 Ingredients:

• 3 medium zucchinis (sliced into ½-inch rounds or thin strips)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt & black pepper to taste
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder (or 2 minced garlic cloves)
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano or Italian seasoning
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Optional: crushed red pepper flakes, chopped fresh basil for garnish

🔥 Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 200°C / 400°F.
2. Prepare zucchini:
   
   • Wash and slice zucchini into rounds or thin strips.
   • Lay them on a kitchen towel or paper towels. Sprinkle a little salt and let them sit for 10 minutes to draw out moisture.
   • Pat them dry to prevent sogginess.
4. Season:
   
   • Toss zucchini slices with olive oil, garlic powder, pepper, and oregano.
6. Layer on baking tray:
   
   • Place the slices on a parchment-lined baking sheet in a single layer.
8. Top with cheese:
   
   • Sprinkle mozzarella evenly over the zucchini.
   • Add Parmesan on top for extra flavor and crispy edges.
10. Bake:
    
    • Bake for 15–20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and golden.
12. Broil (optional):
    
    • For crispy cheese topping, broil for 2–3 minutes at the end. Keep a close eye!
14. Garnish & serve:
    
    • Sprinkle fresh basil or red pepper flakes if you like some heat.
    • Serve hot as a main dish or side.

💡 Tips:

• Add ricotta or feta crumbles for extra creaminess.
• Want more texture? Add breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan on top before baking.
• Great as a meatless main or served with pasta, salad, or crusty bread.

Let me know if you’d like the low-carb version, or if you’re looking for a stuffed zucchini version with cheese!