Description
Sizzling Cheesy Zucchini Steaks deliver Mediterranean flair with crisp edges and melted cheese. Herb-infused vegetable slices promise a delightful meal you’ll savor from first bite to last.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 2 medium zucchinis
- 2 ounces (56 grams) mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1 ounce (28 grams) Parmesan cheese, finely shredded
Flavor Enhancers:
- 4 cloves garlic, finely chopped or grated
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes, plus more for serving
- Kosher salt
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil, torn
Cooking Ingredients:
- 4 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, divided
Instructions
- Halve zucchini lengthwise, creating four substantial “steaks”. Delicately score flesh using a sharp knife in crosshatch pattern to enhance flavor absorption. Dust with salt and allow to rest 15 minutes, drawing out excess moisture and preventing soggy texture.
- Warm olive oil in skillet over medium heat. Introduce garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing until aromatic (1-2 minutes). Quickly transfer fragrant mixture to separate bowl to prevent burning.
- Thoroughly blot zucchini with paper towel to remove moisture. Reheat skillet with additional olive oil, placing zucchini flesh-side down. Sear undisturbed for 2-3 minutes until achieving golden-brown coloration. Transfer initial batch to baking sheet and repeat process.
- Generously coat seared zucchini with prepared garlic oil, ensuring penetration into scored grooves. Roast in preheated 425°F oven for 8-10 minutes, maintaining structural integrity while achieving tenderness.
- Liberally distribute mozzarella and Parmesan across zucchini surfaces. Position under broiler for 2-3 minutes, monitoring closely as cheese melts and caramelizes to golden perfection.
- Plate zucchini steaks, garnishing with fresh basil and optional red pepper flakes for additional zest.
Notes
- Salt zucchini beforehand to remove excess moisture, preventing soggy texture and ensuring crisp, caramelized edges during cooking.
- Score the flesh with a crosshatch pattern to maximize flavor absorption and create appealing presentation with enhanced seasoning penetration.
- Use high-heat cooking methods like searing and broiling to develop rich, deep flavors and achieve golden-brown caramelization on zucchini surface.
- Customize cheese options by substituting mozzarella with goat cheese or adding nutritional yeast for a dairy-free, vegan-friendly alternative that maintains creamy texture.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer, Snacks
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2
- Calories: 275
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 450 mg
- Fat: 23 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 17 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 10 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 9 g
- Cholesterol: 20 mg