This zucchini tomato casserole is one of the most delicious side dishes I’ve ever made. You can use as much cheese as you like. In fact, I add a little more, just because my husband and I enjoy it. Even though there’s quite a bit of cheese in this dish, the other flavors still come through.

The balance of the meaty zucchini and acidic tomato hits the taste buds just right. I normally have most of the ingredients for this dish. This time, all I had to purchase was the zucchini. Since I almost always have large quantities of certain staples, like canned diced tomatoes and cheese, I can always come up with something yummy.

Ingredients

You only need a few ingredients for this flavorful dish. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Zucchini
• Tomatoes
• Italian seasoning
• Cheese (a couple of different types)
• Salt and pepper (optional)

Directions

Season the zucchini and steam it until it’s tender. Test it with a fork to see if it’s done.

Next, drain the diced tomatoes and pour them into a mixing bowl.

After the zucchini is tender, drain it and add it to the tomatoes. Mix in half of one of the cheeses.

Pour the mixture into a casserole dish. Finally, top it with the rest of the cheese and bake it until the mixture bubbles and the cheese melts.

Options for Enhancing the Flavors Even More

The zucchini tomato casserole is just about perfect as is. However, if you want even more flavor, try chopping up some jalapeno peppers and toss them into the mixture. For a hint of sweetness, add a tablespoon or two of honey. Also try maple syrup for a totally different sweet flavor.

I used Monterey jack and Parmesan cheeses. You can use one or both of them. Another thing you can do is to try a variety of cheeses, depending on what you have in the fridge. Don’t be afraid to experiment. After all, if you like the flavor of the cheese, chances are, it’ll be good in this dish.

Benefits of Zucchini and Tomatoes

According to Healthline.com, zucchini is botanically a fruit, although typically used as a vegetable. It is loaded with nutrients, including vitamins, minerals, and fiber.

Here are some of the things it does for your health:

• Provides antioxidants to help fight free radicals
• Helps reduce blood sugar levels
• Assists with digestion
• Helps improve heart health
• Provides nutrients that help your vision
• Assists with weight loss

If you enjoy eating zucchini, try this cheesy zucchini ham bake family dinner or this Italian chicken and zucchini casserole. One of our favorite salads is this zucchini and squash salad.

Tomatoes are also technically a fruit. They provide your body with lycopene that helps reduce the risk of cancer and heart disease. There are quite a few other nutrients in tomatoes that keep you healthy.

What to Serve with a Zucchini Tomato Casserole

The beauty of this delicious casserole is that it does with almost anything. Serve it with chicken, seafood, pork, or steak. It’s even good with holiday food, such as turkey or ham.

Delicious Desserts and More Recipes

Afterward, treat the family to dessert. Check out this yummy chocolate walnut pie and this delicious pineapple upside down cake.

My friend Julie has her recipe for delicious southern-style banana pudding on her Back to My Southern Roots site. She is a champion dessert maker, so I like to try most of her recipes!

If you need to make something for a buffet or potluck, try some of these 12 best side dishes. They’re easy to make, and they’re also crowd-pleasers.

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