Baked Courgette and Tomato Gratin Recipe
This Baked Courgette Tomato Gratin is a delicious and comforting vegetable casserole featuring layers of fresh courgettes and ripe tomatoes, topped with a creamy cheese mixture and baked until golden and bubbling. Perfect as a side dish or a light vegetarian main course.
- Author: Marco
- 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
- 3 medium courgettes, thinly sliced
- 4 large ripe tomatoes, thinly sliced
Cream Mixture
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated cheese (such as Gruyère or Parmesan)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or fresh herbs (optional)
- Prepare the vegetables: Wash the courgettes and tomatoes thoroughly. Slice the courgettes and tomatoes into thin, even rounds to ensure even cooking and layering.
- Layer the vegetables: In a baking dish, arrange the sliced courgettes and tomatoes in alternating layers. Season each layer gently with salt, pepper, and herbs if desired to enhance the flavor.
- Add the cream and cheese: Pour the heavy cream evenly over the layered vegetables. Sprinkle the grated cheese generously on top, covering the entire surface of the gratin.
- Bake the gratin: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the gratin in the oven for approximately 30-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbling and the vegetables are tender when pierced with a fork.
- Serve and enjoy: Remove the gratin from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This dish pairs wonderfully with roasted meats, crusty bread, or as a standalone vegetarian meal.
Notes
- Use a mix of cheeses like Gruyère and Parmesan for a richer flavor.
- For a lighter version, substitute cream with half-and-half or milk, though the dish will be less rich.
- Add garlic or onions for extra depth if you like.
- Herbs like thyme, basil, or oregano complement the flavors beautifully.
- If desired, sprinkle breadcrumbs on top before baking for a crunchy topping.
Keywords: courgette gratin, tomato gratin, baked vegetable gratin, vegetarian gratin, creamy vegetable bake