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Crispy Summer Zucchini and Yellow Squash Gratin

crispy summer zucchini and yellow squash gratin - featured image

A crispy, cheesy gratin featuring tender summer zucchini and yellow squash layered under a golden Parmesan crust, perfect as a fuss-free side for BBQs and casual dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 medium zucchini, thinly sliced (about 14 oz / 400g)
  • 2 medium yellow squash, thinly sliced (about 14 oz / 400g)
  • 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 small shallot, finely chopped (optional)
  • 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves, chopped (or ½ teaspoon dried thyme)
  • Salt to taste
  • Black pepper to taste
  • Zest of 1 lemon

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Wash and thinly slice the zucchini and yellow squash into approximately 1/8-inch (3 mm) rounds. Pat dry with paper towels to reduce moisture.
  3. In a skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and chopped shallot and cook for 2-3 minutes until soft and fragrant.
  4. In a large bowl, combine the sliced squash with the sautéed garlic and shallot mixture. Season with ½ teaspoon salt, ¼ teaspoon black pepper, and chopped thyme. Drizzle remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil and toss gently to coat evenly.
  5. Arrange the squash slices in the baking dish in overlapping rows.
  6. In a small bowl, mix the grated Parmesan, panko breadcrumbs, and lemon zest. Sprinkle evenly over the layered squash.
  7. Bake on the middle rack for 30-35 minutes until the top is golden brown and crispy and the squash is tender. Tent with foil if the top browns too quickly.
  8. Let the gratin rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Pat squash slices dry before assembling to prevent sogginess. Drain excess liquid halfway through baking if needed to keep topping crisp. Use fresh Parmesan for best melting and browning. Tent with foil if top browns too fast. For gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed nuts. For dairy-free, substitute Parmesan with nutritional yeast.

Nutrition

Keywords: zucchini gratin, summer squash recipe, BBQ side dish, Parmesan gratin, crispy vegetable gratin, easy summer recipe