Baked Courgette and Tomato Gratin Recipe
A delicious and easy-to-make Baked Courgette Tomato Gratin featuring layers of fresh courgettes and tomatoes, topped with a creamy cheese mixture and baked to golden perfection. This comforting dish is perfect as a side or a light main course.
- Author: Kai
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French
- Diet: Vegetarian
Vegetables
- 2 medium courgettes, thinly sliced
- 3 medium tomatoes, thinly sliced
Cheese Mixture
- 1 cup grated cheese (such as Gruyère or cheddar)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 garlic clove, minced (optional)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter (for greasing the baking dish)
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it reaches the right temperature by the time the vegetables are prepared.
- Prepare the Baking Dish: Lightly grease a medium-sized baking dish with olive oil or butter to prevent sticking and add flavor.
- Layer the Vegetables: Arrange the thinly sliced courgettes and tomatoes alternately in the dish, overlapping slightly to create a visually appealing pattern. Season each layer lightly with salt and pepper. Optionally, you can sprinkle minced garlic between the layers for extra aroma.
- Add the Cheese and Cream: In a bowl, mix the grated cheese with the cream. Pour this mixture evenly over the layered vegetables, allowing it to seep into the gaps and cover the top.
- Bake the Gratin: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven. Bake for about 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbling and the vegetables are tender.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the gratin from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. This helps the dish set and enhances the flavors.
Notes
- For a richer flavor, use a mix of Gruyère and Parmesan cheese.
- You can add fresh herbs such as thyme or basil between layers to enhance the taste.
- This dish can be served warm or at room temperature.
- To make it lighter, substitute the cream with half-and-half or a plant-based cream alternative.
Keywords: courgette gratin, baked vegetable gratin, tomato gratin, creamy gratin recipe, vegetarian side dish