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Baked Pumpkin and Zucchini with Cheese

A warming vegetable bake that combines the sweetness of pumpkin and zucchini, topped with creamy mozzarella and savory Parmigiano Reggiano. Perfect as a side dish or a light main.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course, Side Dish
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 240

Ingredients
  

Vegetables
  • 1 whole pumpkin, sliced Use fresh pumpkin for the best flavor.
  • 1 whole zucchini, sliced Use fresh zucchini for the best flavor.
Coatings and Seasoning
  • 3-4 tbsp breadcrumbs For added crunch on top.
  • 3-4 tbsp flour For coating the vegetables.
  • Salt, to taste Use sea salt for best flavor.
  • Pepper, to taste Freshly ground black pepper recommended.
Cheese
  • 150 g mozzarella, grated For a creamy texture.
  • 100 g Parmigiano Reggiano, grated Adds a savory depth to the flavor.
Finishing Touches
  • Olive oil, for drizzling Helps achieve a beautiful brown color.
  • Fresh basil leaves, to taste Used between layers and for garnish.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
  2. Line a baking dish with moistened baking paper.
  3. Cut the pumpkin and zucchini into thin, even rounds or half-moons.
  4. Lightly coat the pumpkin slices in flour and season with salt and pepper.
Layering
  1. Place the seasoned pumpkin slices in the baking dish as your first layer.
  2. Sprinkle a generous amount of mozzarella, some Parmigiano Reggiano, and a few basil leaves over the pumpkin layer.
  3. Coat the zucchini in flour, season with salt and pepper, and layer them over the pumpkin.
  4. Continue layering with more pumpkin, zucchini, cheeses, and basil until all ingredients are used.
Baking
  1. End with a final layer of pumpkin topped with mozzarella, Parmigiano, basil, and breadcrumbs.
  2. Drizzle olive oil over the top and cover the dish with aluminum foil.
  3. Bake for 45 minutes, removing the foil during the last 10 minutes for a crispy top.
  4. Allow the dish to cool for 5 minutes before serving warm.

Notes

Serve warm, pairing beautifully with a fresh green salad or crusty bread. Consider garnishing with extra basil or cheese before serving.