Ingredients :
4 zucchini, sliced4 tomatoes, sliced1 liter waterSaltOlive oilFresh basil leaves150g spinach, chopped100g cheese, grated (any melty cheese you like!)1 clove garlic, mincedProvençal herbs (to taste)200g mozzarella cheese, cubedMarinara sauce (store-bought or your own recipe – see below)40g Parmesan cheese, grated1 onion, chopped3 cloves garlic, chopped1 red pepper, chopped200g cherry tomatoes, halvedOlive oil3 tablespoons tomato pasteSalt, pepper, paprika
Préparations :
Prep the zucchini:Whisk salt into water and soak zucchini slices for 15-20 minutes. Drain and pat dry.Layer the first half:Line a baking dish with baking paper. Drizzle olive oil and arrange half the zucchini slices. Top with basil, tomatoes, salt, pepper, and Provençal herbs.Spinach and cheese layer:Mix chopped spinach, grated cheese, minced garlic, and Provençal herbs. Spread half over the vegetables.Finish layering:Top with half the mozzarella cubes, marinara sauce, remaining zucchini, remaining spinach mixture, remaining mozzarella, and another layer of marinara sauce.Bake: Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and bake at 200°C for 30 minutes.Sauté (optional): While the casserole bakes, heat oil in a pan. Sauté onion, garlic, and red pepper for a few minutes. Add cherry tomatoes, cook for a few more minutes, then stir in tomato paste, salt, pepper, and paprika. Blend the mixture into a sauce.Assemble and bake again: After 30 minutes, take out the casserole. Top with the optional sautéed sauce and bake another 10-15 minutes, or until bubbly and golden brown.Serve and enjoy! Let cool slightly before serving.Tips and Tricks:Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh zucchini, tomatoes, and basil make a big difference in the flavor of this dish. Try to get the freshest produce available.Cheese Selection: For a richer flavor, use a combination of cheeses. Mozzarella adds a great melty texture, while Parmesan provides a nice sharpness.Layering Technique: Be sure to layer the ingredients evenly to ensure each bite is packed with flavor. Press down gently after each layer to compact the ingredients.Homemade Marinara: For an extra homemade touch, prepare your own marinara sauce. Sauté onions and garlic in olive oil, add crushed tomatoes, and simmer with salt, pepper, and a pinch of sugar for 20 minutes.Herb Varieties: Feel free to experiment with different herbs. Thyme, oregano, or rosemary can add unique flavors to the dish.Leftovers: This casserole tastes even better the next day. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge and reheat in the oven or microwave.Serving Suggestion: Pair this casserole with a light green salad and crusty bread for a complete meal.Vegan Option: To make this dish vegan, use plant-based cheese and ensure your marinara sauce is free of animal products.
ENJOY