Three Cheese Zucchini Parmesan Recipe

Name: Three Cheese Zucchini Parmesan Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 1 h 15 min
Total time: 1 h 45 min
Yield: 6
Ingredients: For the Zucchini:; 4 medium-sized zucchinis (about 2 pounds); 1 teaspoon salt (for drawing out excess moisture); Olive oil (for drizzling); For the Breadcrumb Coating:; 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (or gluten-free breadcrumbs, if desired); 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese; 1 tablespoon dried Italian seasoning; 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/4 teaspoon onion powder; Freshly cracked black pepper to taste; For the Ricotta Cheese Filling:; 1 cup ricotta cheese (whole milk or part-skim); 1/2 cup fresh mozzarella cheese, shredded (divided); 1/2 cup parmesan cheese, grated; 1 large egg; 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped (or 1 tablespoon dried basil); 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; For the Tomato Sauce:; 2 cups homemade marinara sauce or store-bought marinara sauce; 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat); 1 teaspoon dried oregano; For Assembly:; 1/2 cup fresh mozzarella cheese, shredded (for topping); 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese (for topping); Fresh basil leaves for garnish

By funsmagcom@gmail.com

January 3, 2025

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Three Cheese Zucchini Parmesan Recipe

If you’re craving a comforting, hearty, and healthy dinner, Three Cheese Zucchini Parmesan is an absolute must-try. A twist on the traditional eggplant parmesan, this dish features zucchini, a lighter alternative to the classic, but just as delicious and satisfying. With three types of cheese—mozzarella, parmesan, and ricotta—this zucchini parmesan takes the best elements of the original dish and gives them a fresh, flavorful upgrade.

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This recipe is not only perfect for a low-carb, gluten-free meal, but it also brings together the sweetness of zucchini with a savory, cheesy filling that is perfect for vegetarians or anyone looking to enjoy a lighter but filling Italian-inspired meal.

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Zucchini

Slice the Zucchini:
Begin by cutting the zucchini into 1/4-inch thick rounds. These slices should be uniform in thickness for even cooking. Depending on the size of the zucchinis, you may need to trim off the ends before slicing.
Salt the Zucchini:
Place the sliced zucchini in a colander and sprinkle with 1 teaspoon of salt. Toss the zucchini slices to coat them evenly. This step helps to draw out excess moisture from the zucchini, which prevents the dish from becoming soggy as it bakes. Allow the zucchini to sit for 20 to 30 minutes.
Rinse and Dry:
After the zucchini has released its moisture, rinse the slices thoroughly under cold water to remove the salt. Use paper towels or a clean kitchen towel to pat the slices dry. This step is crucial for ensuring the zucchini doesn’t release too much liquid while baking.
Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the zucchini sits, the oven can heat up, so it’s ready for baking.

Step 2: Prepare the Breadcrumb Coating

Combine the Dry Ingredients:
In a shallow bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs, 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese, 1 tablespoon dried Italian seasoning, 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/4 teaspoon onion powder, and a pinch of freshly cracked black pepper. These breadcrumbs will form the crispy outer coating for the zucchini slices.
Set Aside for Dipping:
Set the breadcrumb mixture aside and prepare for dipping the zucchini slices into it. You’ll also need another shallow bowl to whisk the egg for dipping the zucchini before coating it in the breadcrumbs.

Step 3: Prepare the Ricotta Cheese Filling

Combine the Ricotta and Cheese:
In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the 1 cup of ricotta cheese, 1/2 cup of shredded mozzarella, 1/2 cup of grated parmesan cheese, 1 large egg, 2 tablespoons of fresh basil, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir well until all the ingredients are thoroughly combined. The ricotta filling should be thick and creamy, with the herbs and cheese evenly distributed throughout.
Set Aside:
Set the ricotta mixture aside for now. It will be used to layer between the zucchini slices, creating a rich and flavorful filling.

Step 4: Bread the Zucchini

Dip the Zucchini:
Working with one zucchini slice at a time, dip each slice into the beaten egg, ensuring it’s fully coated on both sides. Then, press it into the breadcrumb mixture, coating it completely. Repeat this process for all zucchini slices.
Fry the Zucchini (Optional):
To make the dish even more delicious, you can pan-fry the breaded zucchini slices before baking, although this step is optional. To do so, heat a thin layer of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Fry the zucchini slices for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. Be careful not to overcrowd the pan, as this will make the zucchini soggy.
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If you want a lighter version, you can skip the frying and simply bake the breaded zucchini directly in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 20 minutes until they are crisp and lightly golden.

Step 5: Assemble the Three Cheese Zucchini Parmesan

Layer the Zucchini in a Baking Dish:
Grease a 9×9-inch or 8×8-inch baking dish with a light drizzle of olive oil or cooking spray. Start by spreading a thin layer of marinara sauce at the bottom of the dish. This prevents the zucchini from sticking to the dish during baking.
Add the First Layer of Zucchini:
Place a layer of the breaded zucchini slices on top of the sauce. Arrange them in a single layer, covering the entire bottom of the dish. If you’re using a baking sheet and have the option to arrange zucchini in a larger layer, feel free to overlap slightly.
Add Ricotta Filling:
Spoon about 1/3 of the ricotta mixture over the zucchini layer. Spread it out gently with a spatula to cover the zucchini evenly. The creamy ricotta will add a wonderful richness to the dish.
Top with Sauce and Cheese:
Spoon some of the marinara sauce over the ricotta, making sure to cover it. Sprinkle with 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese and a little more grated parmesan cheese for added flavor and meltiness.
Repeat the Layers:
Repeat the layering process two more times, ending with a layer of marinara sauce and topped with the remaining mozzarella and parmesan cheese.

Step 6: Bake the Zucchini Parmesan

Cover with Foil:
Once the dish is fully assembled, cover the baking dish with aluminum foil. This helps to trap moisture and ensure the zucchini cooks evenly. Place the baking dish in the preheated oven.
Bake for 35-40 Minutes:
Bake the zucchini parmesan for 35 to 40 minutes until it is bubbling and the cheese is melted and golden. If you’ve pan-fried the zucchini slices, they will already have a crispy texture, and the baking process will help everything meld together.
Remove the Foil:
After 35 minutes, carefully remove the foil and continue baking for another 10 to 15 minutes to allow the cheese to brown and become slightly crispy.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Garnish with Fresh Basil:
Once the zucchini parmesan is done baking, remove it from the oven and let it sit for 5-10 minutes before serving. This will allow the cheese to set and make it easier to slice. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for an aromatic touch.
Serve Hot:
Serve the zucchini parmesan hot from the oven, either as a main dish or a side dish to complement a larger meal. It pairs wonderfully with a light salad, garlic bread, or pasta.

Conclusion

Three Cheese Zucchini Parmesan is a wonderful, healthier alternative to the classic eggplant parmesan. Packed with fresh vegetables, rich cheeses, and flavorful marinara sauce, this dish is a perfect balance of comfort and nutrition. Whether you’re looking for a low-carb meal, a vegetarian option, or just a new way to enjoy zucchini, this recipe is a great choice. It’s easy to make, highly customizable, and can be prepared ahead of time, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or weekend gatherings.

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Additional Tips for Perfecting Your Three Cheese Zucchini Parmesan

Making Three Cheese Zucchini Parmesan is an art, and while it’s simple to prepare, there are several tips and tricks that can help you achieve a perfectly crispy, cheesy, and flavorful dish every time. Here are some additional tips to enhance your results:

1. Selecting the Best Zucchini

Choosing the right zucchini is essential for a flavorful and well-textured dish:

Size Matters: Try to select medium-sized zucchinis that are firm and not too large. Large zucchinis tend to have larger seeds and excess moisture, which can make your dish soggy. Medium zucchinis offer a better texture for baking.
Avoid Soft or Overripe Zucchini: Ensure that the zucchini is firm to the touch, with no soft spots or wrinkles. Overripe zucchinis can become mushy and less flavorful once baked.
Organic Zucchini: If possible, choose organic zucchinis as they tend to have a more robust flavor and fewer pesticides.

2. Maximizing Flavor with Homemade Marinara Sauce

While store-bought marinara sauce can be a convenient option, making your own homemade marinara sauce will elevate the flavor profile of this dish:

Fresh Herbs: Use fresh basil, oregano, and a touch of garlic to infuse the marinara sauce with vibrant, aromatic flavors. If you don’t have fresh herbs, dried herbs will work fine, but fresh really enhances the taste.
Slow Simmer: Allow your marinara sauce to simmer gently for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld together. The longer it simmers, the more depth and richness it will develop. Add a pinch of sugar to balance the acidity of the tomatoes if needed.
Roasted Garlic: For an extra layer of flavor, consider roasting the garlic before adding it to your marinara sauce. Roasted garlic has a sweeter, more mellow taste than raw garlic and complements the zucchini and cheese perfectly.

3. Getting the Perfect Crispy Coating

The breaded zucchini slices are the key to achieving that crispy texture in your zucchini parmesan. Here are some tips to make sure they come out perfectly crispy every time:

Use Panko Breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs are lighter and crispier than regular breadcrumbs, giving your zucchini a nice, crunchy texture. For an even crispier crust, you can toast the panko in a dry pan before using it for breading.
Egg Wash: When dipping the zucchini into the egg, make sure the zucchini slices are evenly coated, but not soaking wet. A thin layer of egg will allow the breadcrumbs to adhere better, creating a crispy outer coating.
Avoid Overcrowding: Whether you choose to fry or bake the zucchini, make sure not to overcrowd the pan. This ensures that each piece cooks evenly and crisps up rather than steaming.

4. Layering the Dish for Optimal Flavor and Texture

The order in which you layer the zucchini parmesan makes a significant difference in the texture and flavor:

Sauce First: Start with a layer of marinara sauce at the bottom of the baking dish. This helps prevent the zucchini from sticking and ensures that the bottom layer remains moist and flavorful.
Layering Zucchini Evenly: When layering the breaded zucchini slices, try to overlap them slightly for better coverage. However, don’t stack them too much, as each slice needs space to cook evenly.
Cheese Distribution: Be generous with the ricotta filling and cheeses, but make sure the layers of cheese are spread evenly to ensure that every bite has the perfect balance of flavors.

5. Baking Tips for Optimal Texture

Baking the zucchini parmesan to the perfect consistency requires some care:

Cover and Uncover the Dish: Baking the zucchini parmesan covered for the first 35-40 minutes ensures that the zucchini cooks through and the cheese doesn’t burn. After that, uncover the dish to allow the cheese to brown and crisp up.
Check for Doneness: After the cheese starts to turn golden, use a fork to check the texture of the zucchini. It should be tender and easily pierced, without being mushy.
Final Broil for a Golden Top: For an extra crispy, golden finish, you can broil the zucchini parmesan for 2-3 minutes at the end of the baking time. Be sure to watch closely to prevent burning.

6. Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

Three Cheese Zucchini Parmesan can be prepared in advance, making it an ideal dish for busy weeknights or meal prepping:

Make Ahead: Assemble the zucchini parmesan up to 2 days in advance. Cover tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. When you’re ready to cook, simply bake it at the recommended temperature for an extra 10-15 minutes, as it will need additional time to heat through.
Freezing: You can also freeze zucchini parmesan before or after baking. To freeze before baking, wrap the assembled dish tightly and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw in the fridge overnight and bake as usual. If freezing after baking, allow it to cool completely before wrapping and freezing.
Reheating: Leftover zucchini parmesan can be reheated in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes, or until warmed through. If using the microwave, cover the dish with a damp paper towel to keep it moist and heat in 1-minute intervals until heated through.

7. Customizing the Recipe to Your Taste

While the Three Cheese Zucchini Parmesan is delicious as is, feel free to customize the dish to suit your preferences:

Add Meat: For a more substantial meal, add ground turkey, chicken sausage, or ground beef to the marinara sauce for a meaty version of the dish. Simply brown the meat and mix it into the sauce before layering it in the baking dish.
Different Cheeses: You can experiment with different cheese combinations, such as using fontina, cheddar, or asiago in place of the mozzarella. Each cheese adds a unique flavor and texture.
Spicy Version: If you enjoy a little heat, sprinkle red pepper flakes on top of the ricotta mixture or stir them into the marinara sauce. The added spice can give the dish an exciting kick.
Vegetable Variations: Feel free to swap out zucchini for other vegetables, such as eggplant, yellow squash, or sweet potatoes. Each vegetable will give the dish a unique flavor and texture.

8. Pairing Suggestions

Three Cheese Zucchini Parmesan is hearty enough to stand on its own, but it also pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides and beverages:

Garlic Bread: A side of crispy garlic bread or breadsticks is a classic Italian pairing that will complement the rich, cheesy flavors of the zucchini parmesan.
Green Salad: A fresh mixed green salad with a tangy balsamic vinaigrette helps balance out the richness of the dish and adds a refreshing contrast.
Roasted Vegetables: For a more filling meal, serve alongside roasted vegetables such as broccoli, bell peppers, or Brussels sprouts. The smoky, caramelized flavor of the roasted veggies complements the savory zucchini parmesan perfectly.
Wine Pairing: A medium-bodied red wine, such as Chianti or Pinot Noir, pairs wonderfully with the flavors of the zucchini parmesan. If you prefer white wine, a Crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a Chardonnay will also pair beautifully with the cheesy and tangy components of the dish.

9. Nutritional Benefits of Zucchini Parmesan

While indulgent, Three Cheese Zucchini Parmesan is also a great option for those looking to enjoy a healthier Italian meal:

Zucchini is low in calories but high in fiber, vitamins, and minerals like potassium and vitamin A. It is also an excellent source of antioxidants, which help combat oxidative stress in the body.
Cheese adds a rich, creamy texture but also provides protein and calcium, making this dish a good option for those looking to meet their daily calcium intake. Using part-skim ricotta and low-fat mozzarella can reduce the calorie count and fat content.
Gluten-Free: By using gluten-free breadcrumbs, you can make this dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.

10. Why This Dish is Perfect for Special Occasions

Three Cheese Zucchini Parmesan isn’t just a great weeknight meal—it’s perfect for entertaining as well:

Impress Your Guests: With its beautiful layers of golden zucchini, melted cheese, and savory tomato sauce, this dish is sure to impress guests at your next dinner party or holiday gathering. It’s easy to prepare ahead of time, so you can enjoy the company of your guests without being stuck in the kitchen.
Family-Friendly: Even the pickiest eaters will love this dish. Zucchini has a mild flavor, and when combined with the gooey mozzarella and savory marinara sauce, it becomes a crowd-pleasing meal.
Meal Prep: If you’re planning meals for the week, this zucchini parmesan is an excellent option. You can prepare a batch and have it ready for several dinners or even lunch.

Three Cheese Zucchini Parmesan is a fresh, healthy twist on the classic eggplant parmesan, with all the comfort and flavor you crave but without the heaviness. This dish is perfect for vegetarians, gluten-free diners, or anyone looking to enjoy a lighter, yet satisfying, Italian meal. Whether you serve it for a casual weeknight dinner, a family gathering, or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to become a go-to favorite. With its combination of crisp zucchini, rich cheese filling, and zesty marinara sauce, it’s an irresistible dish that showcases the best of Italian comfort food.

Yield: 6