Here’s a recipe for Zucchini and Potato Bake with Cheesy Topping, along with some information on the health benefits of zucchini and potatoes.
Zucchini and Potato Bake with Cheesy Topping Recipe
Ingredients:
- 2 medium zucchinis, thinly sliced
- 2 large potatoes, thinly sliced
- 1 onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish with olive oil or cooking spray.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sliced onion. Cook until onion becomes translucent, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add sliced zucchinis and potatoes to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper. Cook for another 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are slightly tender.
- Transfer the cooked vegetables to the greased baking dish, spreading them out evenly.
- In a small bowl, mix together the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses. Sprinkle the cheese mixture over the top of the vegetables.
- Pour the heavy cream evenly over the cheese and vegetables.
- Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Garnish with fresh chopped parsley, if desired, before serving.
Health Benefits:
Zucchini:
- Low in calories and high in water content, making it a great choice for weight management.
- Contains significant amounts of vitamins A and C, which are important for immune function and skin health.
- Rich in antioxidants like lutein and zeaxanthin, which promote eye health.
- High in fiber, aiding in digestion and promoting gut health.
Potatoes:
- Excellent source of vitamins C and B6, important for immune function and brain health, respectively.
- Rich in potassium, which helps regulate blood pressure and muscle function.
- Provide complex carbohydrates for sustained energy.
- Contain antioxidants like flavonoids, which have anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties.
However, it’s worth noting that while this dish contains healthy ingredients like zucchini and potatoes, the addition of cheese and heavy cream adds calories and fat. Enjoy it in moderation as part of a balanced diet.