Zucchini Steaks Recipe
Zucchini steaks are a delicious and healthy vegetarian dish featuring thick slices of zucchini that are scored, pan-seared, baked, and broiled with a flavorful garlic-infused olive oil and topped with melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. Finished with fresh basil and a hint of crushed red pepper flakes, these zucchini steaks make for a perfect appetizer or side dish full of vibrant flavors.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
Zucchini Steaks
- 2 medium zucchinis
Garlic Oil
- 4 cloves garlic, finely chopped or grated
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes, plus more for serving
- Kosher salt, to taste
- 4 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, divided
Cheese Toppings
- 2 oz mozzarella cheese, shredded (about 1/2 cup)
- 1 oz Parmesan cheese, finely shredded (about 1/2 cup)
Garnish
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil, torn
Instructions
- Prep Zucchini: Using a sharp knife, slice each zucchini in half lengthwise to create 4 steaks. Score the flesh side in a crosshatch pattern and season with kosher salt. Let the zucchini sit for 15 minutes to release excess moisture.
- Make Garlic Oil: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped garlic and 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes. Cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic. Transfer the garlic oil mixture to a small bowl and set aside.
- Pan-Sear Zucchini: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in the same skillet over medium heat. Pat each zucchini half dry with paper towels to remove moisture. Place zucchini halves flesh side down in the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes until the surface is golden brown. Transfer the seared zucchini to a baking sheet. Repeat with the remaining zucchini and 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
- Bake: Brush the zucchini steaks generously with the prepared garlic oil. Bake in a preheated oven at 425°F (220°C) for 8-10 minutes until tender.
- Top with Cheese: Remove the zucchini from the oven and evenly top each steak with shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses.
- Broil and Serve: Place the baking sheet under the broiler for 2-3 minutes until the cheese melts and turns golden brown. Remove from oven, transfer zucchini steaks to a platter, and garnish with torn fresh basil leaves and additional crushed red pepper flakes to taste. Serve warm.
Notes
- Scoring the zucchini helps the garlic oil and seasonings penetrate deeply, enhancing flavor.
- Patting the zucchini dry before searing ensures a better golden crust.
- Adjust crushed red pepper flakes to your spice preference or omit for a mild version.
- If you don’t have a broiler, bake a little longer until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Use fresh mozzarella for a creamy melt, or substitute with any melting cheese you prefer.
Keywords: Zucchini steaks, vegetarian zucchini recipe, baked zucchini, garlic zucchini, mozzarella zucchini, Italian side dish
Find it online: https://liamjayne.com/zucchini-steaks-recipe/
