There are a million stuffed zucchini recipes out there, with fillings of everything from sausage to nuts. This simple vegetable side dish is my favorite with its simple stuffing of garlic, parsley, basil, Parmesan and panko breadcrumbs; a perfect accompaniment to most any main dish. And because it’s Ina Garten, she has figured out the best two step way to roast it so the zucchini keeps its shape and firmness; which I find perfect. She says to serve it hot out of the oven or at room temperature as part of a buffet. Also you can prepare the zucchini and the crumb mixture separately and refrigerate for up to a day. Roast before serving.
6 medium zucchini (2 1/2 to 3 pounds total)
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
1 Tbs. minced garlic (3 cloves)
2 Tbs. minced fresh parsley leaves
2 Tbs. julienned fresh basil leaves
1/2 cup freshly grated Italian Parmesan cheese
3/4 cup panko (Japanese bread flakes)
Preheat the oven to 425 degrees. Trim the stem end of the zucchini, cut them in half lengthwise, and scoop out a small channel of seeds with a regular teaspoon. Place the zucchini in one layer on a sheet pan, brush generously all over with olive oil, and turn the zucchini cut side down. Sprinkle with 1 teaspoon salt and roast for 12 to 15 minutes, until just tender but still firm when tested with the tip of a small paring knife.
Meanwhile, make the bread crumbs. In a medium bowl, combine the garlic, parsley, basil, Parmesan, 1 teaspoon salt, and 1/2 teaspoon pepper. Add the panko and 3 1/2 tablespoons of oil and mix well.
Turn the zucchini cut side up and spoon a heaping tablespoon of the panko mixture evenly on each zucchini. Bake for another 8 to 10 minutes, until the panko is crispy. Serve hot, warm, or at room temperature. Serves 6 to 8.
Note: I like this also with pasta as an alternative to salad; the breadcrumbs add some crunch. Served this last night with linguini and clam sauce and it was a perfect match!
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