Mediterranean Zucchini, Tomato, and Eggplant Gratin
This Mediterranean-style gratin layers tender zucchini, eggplant, and ripe tomatoes, baked to perfection with olive oil, garlic, herbs, and a golden cheese topping. It’s a wholesome, low-carb, and flavorful dish that works as a side or a light main course. Perfect for summer vegetables and a healthy Mediterranean diet.
Ingredients
Vegetables & Herbs
1 medium zucchini, sliced into ¼-inch rounds
1 medium eggplant, sliced into ¼-inch rounds
3 medium tomatoes, sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp dried thyme
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish
Cheese Topping
½ cup grated parmesan or pecorino
¼ cup crumbled feta (optional)
2 tbsp breadcrumbs (optional for extra crunch)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat Oven & Prepare Veggies
1. Preheat the oven to 190°C / 375°F.
2. Slice zucchini, eggplant, and tomatoes into even ¼-inch rounds.
Step 2: Prepare Baking Dish
3. Lightly grease a baking dish with 1 tbsp olive oil.
4. Arrange the vegetables alternating in layers (zucchini → eggplant → tomato) vertically or overlapping in a spiral pattern.
Step 3: Seasoning & Herbs
5. Drizzle the remaining 1 tbsp olive oil over the top.
6. Sprinkle minced garlic, oregano, thyme, salt, and black pepper evenly over the vegetables.
Step 4: Add Cheese Topping
7. Mix parmesan, feta (if using), and breadcrumbs in a small bowl. Sprinkle evenly over the layered vegetables.
Step 5: Bake the Gratin
8. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes.
9. Remove the foil and bake for another 10–15 minutes, until vegetables are tender and the top is golden brown.
Step 6: Serve
10. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley before serving. Serve warm as a side dish or light main.
Tips
For extra flavor, roast the eggplant slices separately with a little olive oil to reduce moisture before layering.
You can add thinly sliced onions or bell peppers for more Mediterranean flavors.
Use low-fat cheese to make it lighter if desired.
Let it sit for 5–10 minutes after baking—it helps the layers set and makes it easier to serve.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 180 kcal
Protein: 7 g
Carbohydrates: 12 g
Sugars: 6 g
Fiber: 5 g
Fat: 12g
Vitamin c: 25% DV