This summer gratin is a colorful dish packed with fresh veggies like zucchini, tomatoes, and corn. Topped with a crunchy cheese layer, it’s both tasty and refreshing!
It’s like a hug from the garden on your plate! I love how easy it is to whip up with whatever veggies I have left in the fridge. Perfect for a warm day! 🌞
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini and Yellow Squash: Both add great texture and flavor. If you can’t find them, try using eggplant or bell peppers. They’re delicious and can mix well with other flavors.
Tomatoes: Fresh tomatoes work best, but you can substitute canned diced tomatoes if that’s all you have. Justa little less moisture might be needed to keep the dish from getting soggy.
Onion: Yellow onions are my go-to because they’re sweet when cooked. Shallots are another good choice if you want a milder flavor.
Cheese: I love using Gruyère for its nutty flavor, but mozzarella works well too. For a twist, try feta or goat cheese for a tangy kick!
Heavy Cream: If you’re looking for a lighter option, half-and-half or even a non-dairy cream can replace it. Just remember it’ll change the texture a bit.
How Do You Layer the Vegetables for Great Presentation?
Layering vegetables properly is key for both looks and cooking. Here’s how to do it right:
- Slice all vegetables uniformly so they cook evenly.
- Start with a layer of zucchini on the bottom – this helps form a base for the dish.
- Alternate layers of zucchini, yellow squash, tomatoes, and onion in a circular pattern. This makes it visually appealing and helps the flavors meld.
- Don’t forget to sprinkle cheese between layers if you want extra flavor!
This method makes the dish pop and ensures every bite is packed with flavor. Plus, it’s a great way to show off fresh summer produce! Enjoy layering!
How to Make Summer Gratin?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Vegetables:
- 2 medium zucchinis, thinly sliced
- 2 medium yellow squash, thinly sliced
- 2 medium tomatoes, thinly sliced
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
For the Creamy Mixture:
- 1 cup grated cheese (such as mozzarella or Gruyère)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup vegetable broth
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- Olive oil for drizzling
For Garnish:
- Fresh herbs (such as thyme or basil)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and about 45-50 minutes to bake. You’ll have a total of 1 hour to enjoy this delightful dish—perfect for a summer meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheating the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure it’s hot and ready for your gratin when you finish preparing it.
2. Mixing the Creamy Sauce:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the heavy cream, vegetable broth, minced garlic, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until it’s well mixed. This creamy mixture is what will make your vegetables tender and flavorful!
3. Layering the Vegetables:
Take a greased baking dish and start layering the sliced zucchinis, yellow squash, tomatoes, and onions. Alternate the layers in a circular pattern, which will not only make it look nice but also allow the flavors to blend beautifully.
4. Adding the Cream and Cheese:
Now, pour that creamy mixture evenly over the layered vegetables, making sure each slice gets some of that goodness. Then, sprinkle the grated cheese on top of everything for a deliciously cheesy finish.
5. Baking the Gratin:
Drizzle a little olive oil over the top for extra flavor. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and place it in the oven. Bake for 30 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes or until the top is golden and everything is tender.
6. Finishing Touches:
Once it’s done, take the gratin out of the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs to enhance the flavors and add a pop of color.
7. Serving:
Serve warm as a delightful side dish or make it a main course with some crusty bread. Enjoy your delicious Summer Gratin—it’s a dish that’s sure to impress!
Can I Substitute the Cheese with a Dairy-Free Option?
Absolutely! You can use a dairy-free cheese alternative that melts well, such as vegan mozzarella or a nut-based cheese. For additional flavor, consider adding nutritional yeast to the cream mixture to enhance the cheesiness.
What If I Don’t Have Heavy Cream?
No worries! You can substitute heavy cream with equal parts of whole milk mixed with a bit of cornstarch to thicken it, or use a combination of milk and sour cream for a creamy texture. Just keep in mind that the dish may be slightly less rich.
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftover Summer Gratin in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave in short intervals, checking frequently.
Can I Add Other Vegetables to This Gratin?
Definitely! Feel free to include other seasonal vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or eggplant. Just make sure to slice them thinly so they cook evenly with the other veggies in the dish!
