Description
Gourmet Garlic Zucchini Steaks with Cheese are a delicious and easy-to-make vegetable dish featuring tender zucchini slices cooked with fragrant garlic, a hint of crushed red pepper flakes, and topped with melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Perfect as a savory side or a light vegetarian main course, these zucchini steaks are baked and broiled to achieve a golden, cheesy finish, garnished with fresh basil for a burst of fresh flavor.
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables
- 2 medium zucchini
Seasonings and Oils
- Kosher salt
- 4 cloves garlic, finely chopped or grated
- 1/4 tsp. crushed red pepper flakes, plus more for serving
- 4 Tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil, divided
Cheeses and Herbs
- 2 oz. mozzarella, shredded (about 1/2 cup)
- 1 oz. Parmesan, finely shredded (about 1/2 cup)
- 2 Tbsp. fresh basil, torn
Instructions
- Prepare Zucchini: Slice each zucchini lengthwise into 4 thick “steaks” and score the flesh side lightly with a knife to allow even cooking and to absorb seasoning.
- Season and Rest: Sprinkle the zucchini slices with kosher salt and let them sit for 15 minutes. This process helps draw out excess moisture from the zucchinis, improving texture and flavor.
- Preheat Oven: While the zucchini rests, preheat your oven to 425°F (218°C) to get ready for baking.
- Cook Garlic and Pepper Flakes: In a small pan, heat 2 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped or grated garlic and 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes, cooking until fragrant but not browned, about 1-2 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside your flavorful garlic oil.
- Cook Zucchini Steaks: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Place the zucchini steaks flesh side down and cook until they turn golden brown, about 3-4 minutes.
- Transfer to Baking Sheet: Flip the zucchini steaks so the scored flesh side is facing up and place them on a baking sheet.
- Brush with Garlic Oil and Bake: Generously brush the top of each zucchini steak with the prepared garlic oil. Bake in the preheated oven until tender, about 8-10 minutes.
- Add Cheese and Broil: Remove the baking sheet from the oven and top each zucchini steak with shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Place under a broiler and broil until the cheese has melted and is golden brown, approximately 2-3 minutes—watch carefully to prevent burning.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and garnish with torn fresh basil leaves and additional crushed red pepper flakes if desired for extra heat. Serve immediately as a delicious appetizer or side dish.
Notes
- Scoring the zucchini helps the garlic oil penetrate deeper and creates a better texture.
- Letting the zucchini sit with salt helps remove excess water for a less soggy result.
- Adjust red pepper flakes according to your heat preference.
- Keep a close eye during broiling to avoid burning the cheese.
- This dish pairs well with grilled meats or as a vegetarian entrée alongside a salad.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Keywords: zucchini steaks, garlic zucchini, baked zucchini, vegetarian side dish, mozzarella zucchini, Parmesan cheese, Italian vegetables
