Description

Cheesy Garlic Zucchini Steaks feature tender zucchini sliced and seared, then finished in the oven with a fragrant garlic oil, melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, and a hint of red pepper. Topped with fresh basil, this dish is bursting with savory flavors, boasts a satisfying texture, and is perfect as a low-carb main or side. Enjoy a quick, delicious way to savor summer zucchini any night.

Ingredients

Scale

2 medium zucchini
1 teaspoon kosher salt
4 cloves garlic, finely chopped or grated
1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
4 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, divided
2 ounces mozzarella, shredded (about 1/2 cup)
1 ounce Parmesan, finely shredded (about 1/2 cup)
2 tablespoons fresh basil, torn

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Slice each zucchini in half lengthwise to create 4 steaks. Score the flesh in a crosshatch pattern about 1/4 inch deep.
Sprinkle the scored sides with kosher salt and let sit for 15 minutes to draw out moisture.
Preheat oven to 425°F. In a skillet, cook garlic and red pepper flakes in 2 tablespoons olive oil until fragrant, about 1 to 2 minutes. Set aside.
Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in the skillet over medium-high. Pat zucchini dry and sear flesh side down until golden, 2 to 3 minutes. Repeat with remaining halves.
Transfer zucchini to a baking sheet, flesh side up. Brush with garlic oil.
Bake for 8 to 10 minutes until tender.
Top with mozzarella and Parmesan. Broil 2 to 3 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden.
Garnish cheesy garlic zucchini steaks with torn basil and extra pepper flakes. Serve hot.

Notes

For a dairy-free option, swap cheeses for plant-based varieties. You can substitute yellow squash for zucchini. Prepare the garlic oil ahead and store in the fridge for up to 3 days. Zucchini steaks are best served immediately, but leftovers reheat well in a toaster oven. If zucchini releases too much moisture, pat dry again before baking. Avoid over-broiling to prevent burning the cheese.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Side Dish
Method: Baking, Searing, Broiling
Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 zucchini steak
Calories: 170
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 480mg
Fat: 13g
Saturated Fat: 3.5g
Unsaturated Fat: 8.5g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 6g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 5g
Cholesterol: 10mg