Description
Creamy Fresh Garden Zucchini Gratin is a rich and flavorful side dish, featuring tender zucchini slices in a creamy, cheesy sauce. It’s perfect for a meatless meal or as a delicious side to any dish.
Ingredients
- For the Gratin:
- 2 tbsp ghee, unrefined organic coconut oil, tallow, avocado oil, or olive oil (divided)
- 1 large sweet onion, chopped
- 4 fresh garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 cup unsweetened coconut cream or grass-fed cow’s milk cream
- 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 4 medium zucchini, sliced into 1/3-inch slices
- 1/2 cup freshly shredded cheddar, gouda, or mozzarella cheese
- Optional:
- 2 tsp smoked paprika
- Freshly chopped parsley or basil
Instructions
- Prepare the zucchini: Slice the zucchini and place the slices in a colander. Sprinkle lightly with salt and set aside (this helps prevent excess moisture in the final dish).
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Sauté the onion and garlic: Heat 1 tablespoon of your chosen fat in a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Sauté the chopped onion for about 5 minutes, or until it softens. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Add the coconut cream and cheese: Stir in the coconut cream (or cow’s milk cream) and bring to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low and incorporate the grated Parmesan cheese. Stir just until the cheese has melted and the sauce is smooth. Remove the skillet from the heat.
- Prepare the zucchini: Blot the zucchini slices with a paper towel to remove excess moisture. Place them in a large bowl and toss lightly with sea salt, pepper, and the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil/fat.
- Assemble the gratin: Arrange the zucchini slices nicely over the creamy sauce in the skillet. If desired, sprinkle with smoked paprika for added flavor.
- Add the cheese and bake: Sprinkle the top with 1/2 cup of shredded cheese (cheddar, gouda, or mozzarella). Bake for 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish and serve: If desired, sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley or basil before serving.
Notes
- Storage: Store leftover gratin in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes or in the microwave until heated through.
- Variations:
- Vegan Version: Use dairy-free cheese and coconut cream for a fully plant-based option.
- Add Protein: Add cooked chicken or sausage for a heartier meal.
- Herb Variations: Experiment with other fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for a different flavor profile.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 160
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 330mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
