Description

Roasted Garlic-Parmesan Zucchini, Squash, and Tomatoes is a simple yet flavorful vegetable side dish that combines the vibrant flavors of fresh zucchini, yellow squash, and tomatoes with the savory richness of roasted garlic and Parmesan cheese. This dish is perfect for weeknight dinners or as a healthy addition to any meal, offering a wonderful balance of crispy Parmesan-topped vegetables and tender, caramelized textures. The blend of herbs, garlic, and cheese creates a mouthwatering, golden-brown crust that enhances the natural sweetness of the roasted vegetables. Best of all, this recipe is versatile and can be easily adapted with different vegetables, cheeses, or even proteins to suit your taste and dietary preferences.

Ingredients

Scale

2 medium zucchini sliced into rounds
2 medium yellow squash sliced into rounds
1 pint cherry tomatoes halved
4 cloves garlic minced
2 tablespoons olive oil
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh herbs such as basil or parsley, for garnish

Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
Slice the Vegetables: Slice the zucchini and yellow squash into ¼-inch rounds, and halve the cherry tomatoes.
Mix in a Bowl: In a large bowl, combine sliced zucchini, squash, and cherry tomatoes with minced garlic, olive oil, and grated Parmesan cheese; toss gently to coat.
Season: Add salt and pepper to taste, and toss again to evenly distribute the seasoning.
Spread on Baking Sheet: Spread the seasoned vegetables in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
Bake: Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway through, until vegetables are tender and caramelized.
Finish with Herbs: Remove from oven, transfer to a serving dish, and garnish with fresh herbs such as chopped basil or parsley.

Notes

Vegetable Variety: While zucchini, squash, and tomatoes are classic choices, you can substitute or add vegetables like bell peppers, eggplant, or mushrooms to diversify the dish.
Garlic Flavor: Minced garlic adds a robust flavor, but you can also use garlic powder for a more subtle garlic taste or roasted garlic for a sweeter, milder flavor.
Cheese Options: Parmesan works well for a crispy, salty topping, but you can experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella for a melty texture or feta for a tangy twist.
Seasoning Flexibility: Feel free to customize the herbs. Italian seasoning blends are a great option, but you can also use fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or basil for a more aromatic profile.
Crispiness: For crispier vegetables, make sure to spread them out in a single layer on the baking sheet. Overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of roasting.
Storage and Reheating: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to maintain crispiness, as microwaving can make the vegetables soggy.