Zucchini Bake with Tomatoes and Bacon

This delicious zucchini bake combines fresh vegetables with savory bacon for a delightful meal. It's a comforting dish that's not only easy to prepare but also full of flavor. Perfect for a cozy dinner, it features layers of zucchini and tomatoes, seasoned with thyme, salt, and pepper. The addition of garlic adds an aromatic depth, while the bacon provides a satisfying crunch and richness. This dish comes together in just under an hour, making it an excellent choice for weeknight dinners. It's versatile and can be easily adapted to suit different tastes and dietary needs. Serve it as a standalone meal or pair it with your favorite side dishes for a complete feast. The beautiful colors and rich flavors make it a great option for entertaining guests or enjoying as a family meal. You'll love how the ingredients work together to create a comforting yet sophisticated taste. Let's explore more about this fantastic recipe!

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

150 g dried bacon or sausage
2 zucchinis
4 tomatoes
4 cloves of garlic

Spices:

Fresh or dried thyme
Bay leaves
Salt
Pepper

Preparation Time

Total time: 45 minutes (including prep and cook time)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients: Start by slicing the zucchinis and tomatoes into even slices. Cut the garlic cloves into smaller pieces to ensure they are evenly distributed throughout the dish.
Layer the Ingredients: In a greased baking dish, alternate layers of zucchini and tomato slices. In between, add slices of bacon or sausage for flavor and texture.
Add Garlic and Seasonings: Sprinkle the garlic pieces over the top. Insert bay leaves between some of the slices to infuse the dish with a subtle aromatic flavor. Season generously with salt, pepper, and thyme.
Cover and Bake: Cover the dish with foil to help the ingredients cook evenly and prevent them from drying out. Preheat your oven to 180°C (356°F) and bake for 25-30 minutes.
Finish Baking: After the initial baking time, remove the foil and continue baking for a few more minutes. This step allows the bacon to crisp up and the top to brown slightly.
Check for Doneness: Ensure the vegetables are tender and cooked through. If necessary, adjust seasoning to taste.
Serve and Enjoy: Once done, take the dish out of the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.

Tips:

For a vegetarian option, replace bacon with your favorite plant-based meat substitute.
Experiment with additional spices like paprika for a spicy twist.

Nutritions

Calories: 320
Carbs: 15g
Protein: 14g
Fats: 22g

Variations

Cheesy Delight: Add shredded cheese on top during the final baking step for a cheesy crust.
Herb Infusion: Include fresh basil or oregano for a different herbal note.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this bake with a fresh green salad or garlic bread for a balanced meal.
Garnish with fresh parsley or basil for an added burst of flavor.

Best Places

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Buvette - Charming spot offering French-inspired dishes made with local produce. Location: 42 Grove St, New York, USA.
L’Arpège - Michelin-star worthy dishes with focus on vegetables. Location: 84 Rue de Varenne, Paris, France.
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Nopi - Delightful dishes with bold flavors by Yotam Ottolenghi. Location: 21-22 Warwick St, London, UK.
Alice B. Toklas - London-based cafe offering savory and aromatic dishes. Location: 56 Duke St, London, UK.
Gjelina - Rustic menu celebrated for Californian-style delicacies. Location: 1429 Abbot Kinney Blvd, Venice, USA.
Farmhouse - Exquisite dishes emphasizing organic and local produce. Location: 1000 Mountain Rest Rd, New Paltz, USA.
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