Tender Cheesy Zucchini Steaks Recipe
Tender Cheesy Zucchini Steaks are a delicious and easy vegetarian dish that features zucchini ‘steaks’ topped with a flavorful garlic oil, melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses, and fresh basil. Perfect for a light and satisfying meal.
- Author: Maya Quinn
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking, Broiling
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Main Ingredients
Aromatics & Seasonings
- 4 cloves garlic, finely chopped or grated
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes, plus more for serving
- Kosher salt
- 4 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, divided
Cheese & Garnish
- 2 oz mozzarella cheese, shredded (about 1/2 cup)
- 1 oz Parmesan cheese, finely shredded (about 1/2 cup)
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil, torn
- Slice and Prep Zucchini: Using a sharp knife, slice each zucchini in half lengthwise to create 4 ‘steaks.’ Score the flesh side in a crosshatch pattern. Season with salt and let sit for 15 minutes to release moisture.
- Cook Garlic Oil: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the garlic, red pepper flakes, and 2 tablespoons of olive oil until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes. Transfer to a small bowl.
- Cook Zucchini: Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in the same skillet. Pat zucchini dry and cook 2 halves flesh side down until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes. Transfer to baking sheet. Repeat with remaining zucchini and oil.
- Bake and Top: Brush zucchini with garlic oil. Bake at 425°F until tender, about 8-10 minutes. Top with mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses.
- Broil and Serve: Broil until cheese is melted and browned, about 2-3 minutes. Transfer to a platter and top with torn basil and additional red pepper flakes.
Notes
- Make sure to pat the zucchini dry after salting to ensure a nice sear.
- Feel free to customize with your favorite herbs or additional toppings.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 zucchini steak
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 410mg
- Fat: 17g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
Keywords: Zucchini, Cheesy, Vegetarian, Garlic, Mozzarella, Parmesan