Baked courgette with Parmesan is not as famous as the classic aubergine version but we guarantee that the result will be just as wonderful. It is made with tasty layers of fried courgette, tomato passata, smoked ‘scamorza’ cheese and grated Parmesan cheese. It is suitable for special occasions, when you want a homemade appetizer served in small portions; or for a dinner or lunch as a complete main course thanks to the variety of its ingredients; it can also be made in advance or frozen pre-cooked and then used as necessary. Young and old alike will go crazy for this dish, and it will also give you the chance to get some veg into your kids, something which is not always easy. For a more substantial version of this baked courgette with Parmesan we suggest frying the courgette in batter! Now we’re ready to make this tasty dish, so just follow the recipe and our photo gallery.
* approximate values per serving
Wash and clean the courgettes, cut into 0.5 cm thick slices and fry in hot oil. Drain on paper towels and season with salt. In a roasting pan, spread a spoonful of tomato passata over the base, and then add a layer of courgettes. Continue with another layer of tomato passata, then a layer of smoked scamorza cheese and grated Parmesan. Continue layering until all the ingredients are used up and finish with a generous layer of tomato passata. Cook in a preheated oven at 180°C for about 40 minutes.
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Slice the courgettes into 1/2cm slices
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Fry the courgettes in plenty of oil
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Make a layer of tomato passata and courgette
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Cover with more tomato
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Arrange the slices of smoked scamorza cheese
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Add the grated parmesan
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Continue the layers until the ingredients are used up
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Finish with a good layer of tomato passata
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Serve
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One of the tastiest variations of zucchini parmesan is definitely the addition of smoked scamorza. This cheese, with its intense and smoky flavor, further enriches the dish, giving it a character that perfectly complements the sweetness of the zucchinis. To make it, proceed as in the traditional recipe, alternating layers of fried zucchinis, tomato sauce, and smoked scamorza. As the scamorza melts during cooking, it creates a gooey cream that envelops the zucchinis, making the preparation even more appetizing. This variation is ideal for those who love bold flavors and want to surprise their guests with a dish rich in nuances. Don't forget to use a good tomato sauce, preferably homemade, to best enhance the ingredients.
The Neapolitan zucchini parmesan is a preparation that stands out for its simplicity and authentic flavor. In this version, the zucchinis are fried and layered with fresh tomato sauce and cheese, just like in the traditional eggplant parmesan. The secret of this recipe lies in the use of fresh, quality ingredients, such as fresh basil, which adds an unmistakable aromatic touch. Furthermore, compared to the classic version, here you can opt for a lighter sauce, without too much onion, to allow the flavor of the zucchinis to emerge in all its delicacy. This dish is perfect for a summer lunch, served warm or at room temperature, accompanied by a fresh salad.
For those who wish to enjoy a lighter zucchini parmesan, it is possible to prepare it without frying. In this light version, the zucchinis are grilled instead of fried, significantly reducing the fat content. The procedure is simple: after washing and slicing the zucchinis, grill them on a hot plate until they are lightly browned. Then proceed to layer the grilled zucchinis with tomato sauce, scamorza, and parmesan, as in the traditional recipe. This variation keeps the flavors and creaminess of the dish intact, without weighing it down. It is an excellent choice for those following a balanced diet or for anyone who wants a lighter meal without sacrificing taste.
Zucchini is a vegetable rich in health benefits. They contain very few calories, about 17 per 100 grams, and are an excellent source of vitamins A and C, as well as minerals like potassium and magnesium. Thanks to their high water content, they promote hydration and help maintain a good water balance in the body. Zucchini are also rich in antioxidants, which combat free radicals and may contribute to reducing the risk of chronic diseases. Incorporating them into the diet, as is done in zucchini parmesan, is a tasty way to provide essential nutrients and maintain a healthy diet. Additionally, the presence of cheeses like parmesan and scamorza adds protein and calcium, making this dish a complete and nutritious meal.
Yes, zucchini parmesan can be frozen, but there are some precautions to follow to keep flavors and textures intact. Before freezing, it is advisable to let it cool completely and then divide it into portions. Use airtight containers or freezer-safe food bags to avoid freezer burn. When you want to consume it, simply thaw it in the refrigerator for a few hours or leave it at room temperature, then reheat it in the oven to restore its original consistency. It is important to note that while the taste remains good, the texture of the zucchinis may be slightly softer after freezing. However, this is a practical solution for preserving a delicious dish ready to use in case of need.