This Easy Low Carb Gluten-Free Zucchini Bake is a crowd-pleaser! It features fresh zucchini mixed with cheese and herbs, baked to golden perfection. Yum!
I love that it’s healthy and so easy to whip up. It’s perfect as a side dish or a tasty snack. Plus, you can sneak in extra veggies without anyone noticing! 🥒
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: Fresh zucchini is the star here! It’s low in carbs and adds moisture. If zucchini isn’t available, yellow squash works too.
Cheeses: Mozzarella gives that gooey texture, while Parmesan adds a nice flavor punch. Can’t find them? You can use any cheese you prefer, like cheddar or gouda, but adjust the amount to maintain the creamy texture.
Sour Cream/Greek Yogurt: This adds creaminess and tang. If you’re dairy-free, try coconut yogurt or cashew cream as alternatives.
Herbs: Dried Italian herbs add depth to the dish. You could swap them out for fresh herbs like basil or thyme for an extra fresh taste.
How Can I Ensure My Zucchini Stays Tender and Not Watery?
One common challenge with zucchini dishes is excess moisture. To keep your bake tender, use these tips:
- Salt the sliced zucchini and let it sit for 10-15 minutes. This draws out moisture. After, pat them dry with a paper towel.
- Spread the zucchini in a single layer in the baking dish to promote even cooking.
- Avoid over-baking. Check it around the 25-minute mark and take it out once the cheese is bubbly and the zucchini is tender.
Following these steps helps you get that perfect texture without a soggy mess!
Easy Low Carb Gluten-Free Zucchini Bake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 medium zucchinis, sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (or a mix of oregano, basil, and thyme)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt (for creaminess)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Optional: 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley or chives for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious zucchini bake will take about 15 minutes to prepare and 25-30 minutes to bake. So, you’ll be enjoying your meal in about an hour—perfect for a quick and nutritious dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it warms up, lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil or non-stick spray to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Zucchini:
In a large bowl, add the sliced zucchini. Drizzle it with olive oil, and then sprinkle salt, black pepper, and your choice of Italian herbs on top. Toss everything together to coat the zucchini evenly.
3. Add Flavor:
Next, mix in the minced garlic with the zucchini. Give it another gentle toss to make sure the garlic is well distributed.
4. Assemble in Baking Dish:
Spread the coated zucchini evenly into your prepared baking dish. This layer will become the base of your bake.
5. Add Creaminess:
Dollop the sour cream or Greek yogurt over the zucchini, using a spoon to gently mix it in, making sure it’s spread out throughout the veggies.
6. Cheese It Up:
Now it’s time for the cheese! Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top, followed by the grated Parmesan cheese. This will create a delightful, gooey crust.
7. Bake to Perfection:
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes. Keep an eye on it; you want the zucchini to be tender and the cheese to be melted and golden brown.
8. Cool and Serve:
Once it’s out of the oven, let the zucchini bake cool for about 5 minutes before serving. This helps it set up a bit for easier serving.
9. Garnish:
If you like, sprinkle some chopped fresh parsley or chives on top for a colorful touch. Enjoy your warm, cheesy, and healthy low carb zucchini bake!
This zucchini bake is creamy, cheesy, and perfectly tender with a bubbly, golden crust—easy to make and full of flavor! Enjoy!
FAQ for Easy Low Carb Gluten-Free Zucchini Bake
Can I Use Different Vegetables?
Absolutely! While zucchini is the star here, you can mix in other veggies like yellow squash, eggplant, or bell peppers. Just chop them into similar-sized pieces to ensure even cooking.
How Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, substitute the mozzarella and Parmesan with plant-based cheese alternatives. You can also use coconut yogurt instead of sour cream or Greek yogurt for creaminess.
Can I Prep This Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can slice the zucchini and prepare the other ingredients a day in advance. Store them in the fridge, and then assemble and bake when you’re ready to eat.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat it in the oven or microwave until warmed through. It tastes great, even the next day!
