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Cheesy Garlic Zucchini Steaks Recipe

★★★★★

4.5 from 76 reviews
  • Author: lilan
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Cheesy Garlic Zucchini Steaks are a flavorful and healthy vegetable dish featuring tender zucchini slices scored for maximum seasoning absorption, sautéed garlic-infused olive oil, and topped with melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. This easy oven-baked recipe is perfect as a tasty side or a light vegetarian main.

Ingredients

Scale

Zucchini Steaks

  • 2 medium zucchini (about 1 lb. total)
  • Kosher salt

Garlic Oil

  • 4 cloves garlic, finely chopped or grated
  • 1/4 tsp. crushed red pepper flakes, plus more for serving
  • 4 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil, divided

Cheese Topping

  • 2 oz. mozzarella, shredded (about 1/2 cup)
  • 1 oz. Parmesan, finely shredded (about 1/2 cup)

Garnish

  • 2 tbsp. torn fresh basil

Instructions

  1. Prepare the zucchini: Using a sharp knife, slice each zucchini in half lengthwise to create 4 zucchini steaks. Score the flesh side of each steak ¼ inch deep diagonally at ½ inch intervals, then rotate the steaks 90 degrees and score diagonally again to form a crosshatch pattern. This allows the seasonings to penetrate better.
  2. Salt and rest: Season the scored sides of the zucchini steaks with 1 teaspoon kosher salt. Let them rest for about 15 minutes to draw out excess moisture.
  3. Make garlic oil: Preheat your oven to 425°F and arrange a rack in the center. In a large skillet over medium heat, warm 2 tablespoons of olive oil and add the finely chopped garlic and 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes. Stir and cook for 1 to 2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant but not browned. Scrape the garlic oil into a small bowl.
  4. Brown the zucchini: In the same skillet over medium-high heat, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Pat the zucchini steaks dry with a paper towel to remove the released moisture. Place 2 zucchini halves flesh side down in the skillet and cook undisturbed until golden brown on the bottom, about 2 to 3 minutes. Transfer them flesh side up to a baking sheet. Repeat the process with the remaining zucchini and the last tablespoon of olive oil.
  5. Brush with garlic oil and bake: Brush the zucchini steaks with the prepared garlic oil. Bake in the preheated oven until the zucchini is tender through the center, about 8 to 10 minutes.
  6. Add cheese and broil: Remove the baking sheet from the oven and top each zucchini steak with shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Turn your broiler on high and place the zucchini under the broiler for 2 to 3 minutes, watching carefully, until the cheese is melted and browned.
  7. Garnish and serve: Transfer the zucchini steaks to a serving platter. Sprinkle with torn fresh basil leaves and additional crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy finish. Serve warm.

Notes

  • Patting zucchini dry after salting is essential to achieve a good sear and prevent sogginess.
  • If you prefer less spice, reduce or omit the crushed red pepper flakes.
  • Feel free to swap mozzarella with a dairy-free cheese alternative to make this recipe vegan, though it will change the flavor and texture.
  • Using fresh basil adds a bright herbal note that complements the richness of the cheese and garlic oil.
  • This dish works well as a vegetarian main or alongside grilled meats as a savory side.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Side Dish
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Keywords: zucchini steaks, cheesy zucchini, garlic zucchini, baked zucchini, vegetarian side dish

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Find it online: https://cooklilan.com/cheesy-garlic-zucchini-steaks-recipe/