Description
Mediterranean-inspired roasted garlic parmesan zucchini, squash, and tomatoes bring summer garden flavors to any plate. Herbs, cheese, and olive oil create a simple side dish with robust Mediterranean charm.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 medium zucchini (sliced into ¼-inch rounds)
- 2 medium yellow squash (sliced into ¼-inch rounds)
- 1 pint (16 oz / 450 g) cherry tomatoes, halved
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup (50 g) grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup (60 ml) olive oil
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh basil (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preparation: Position oven rack in center and preheat to 400°F. Line a spacious baking sheet for optimal roasting.
- Seasoning: In a large mixing bowl, combine sliced zucchini, yellow squash, and cherry tomatoes. Drizzle extra virgin olive oil, sprinkle minced garlic, sea salt, and black pepper. Toss thoroughly to ensure even coating.
- Arrangement: Spread seasoned vegetables across baking sheet, maintaining strategic spacing to encourage caramelization and prevent moisture accumulation.
- Roasting: Place baking sheet in preheated oven and roast for 25-30 minutes, watching for golden edges and crisp textures. During final 5 minutes, generously sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt and create a crispy, savory crust.
- Finishing: Remove from oven and garnish with fresh basil leaves for an aromatic and visually appealing presentation. Serve immediately while vegetables are warm and cheese is perfectly melted.
Notes
- Slice Evenly: Cut zucchini and squash into uniform thickness (about 1/4 inch) to ensure consistent cooking and beautiful presentation.
- Space Strategically: Spread vegetables in single layer with small gaps between pieces to achieve perfect caramelization instead of steaming.
- Cheese Timing Matters: Add Parmesan during last 5 minutes of roasting to prevent burning and create a crispy, golden cheese crust.
- Fresh Herb Flourish: Sprinkle basil leaves immediately after removing from oven to preserve their vibrant color and maximize fresh aromatic qualities.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer, Snacks
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 5
- Calories: 230
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 10mg