Gourmet Garlic Zucchini Steaks with Cheese Recipe
This Gourmet Garlic Zucchini Steaks with Cheese recipe offers a delicious and elegant way to enjoy zucchini. Featuring tender zucchini slices topped with garlicky olive oil and a blend of melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, finished with fresh basil and a hint of red pepper flakes for a flavorful kick. Perfect as a side dish or a light vegetarian main.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
Zucchini Steaks
- 2 medium zucchini
- Kosher salt, to taste
Garlic Oil
- 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
Cheese Topping
- 2 oz mozzarella, shredded (about 1/2 cup)
- 1 oz Parmesan, finely shredded (about 1/2 cup)
Garnish
- 2 Tbsp fresh basil, torn
Instructions
- Prepare Zucchini: Slice the zucchinis lengthwise into four thick steaks and lightly score the flesh side with a knife to help flavor absorption.
- Season and Rest: Sprinkle the zucchini steaks generously with kosher salt and let them sit for 15 minutes to draw out excess moisture.
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 425°F (220°C) to prepare for baking the zucchini steaks later.
- Cook Garlic and Pepper Flakes: In a small pan, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil and sauté the finely chopped garlic and 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes until fragrant but not browned. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Sear Zucchini: Using a skillet, heat remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat and place the zucchini steaks flesh side down. Cook until golden brown and slightly caramelized, about 3-4 minutes.
- Transfer and Prepare for Baking: Move the seared zucchini steaks to a baking sheet, placing them flesh side up for topping.
- Brush with Garlic Oil: Generously brush the cooked zucchini steaks with the prepared garlic and red pepper infused olive oil.
- Bake Zucchini: Bake in the preheated oven until the zucchini is tender but still holds shape, approximately 8-10 minutes.
- Add Cheese and Broil: Remove the baking sheet and evenly sprinkle shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses over each zucchini steak. Place under the broiler until the cheese melts, bubbles, and turns golden brown, watching closely to avoid burning (about 2-3 minutes).
- Garnish and Serve: Top with fresh torn basil and a sprinkle of extra red pepper flakes if desired. Serve warm as a savory side or a light main dish.
Notes
- Make sure to score the zucchini flesh; it helps the garlic oil penetrate better for more flavor.
- Salting the zucchini and letting it sit reduces bitterness and excess water for better texture when cooking.
- Watch the broiler carefully during cheese melting to prevent burning.
- This dish can be made gluten-free and vegetarian.
- Use fresh herbs and good quality cheeses for the best taste.
Keywords: zucchini steaks, garlic zucchini, baked zucchini, cheesy zucchini, vegetarian side dish, Italian zucchini recipe
