Beautifully Layered and Flavorful Gluten-Free Potato, Zucchini, and Onion Casserole is an Easy, Economical, and Delicious Meal
Plant-based meals have always been a staple in my kitchen, and this casserole is a good choice when I want something hearty, satisfying, and nutritious. The combination of potatoes and zucchini, especially when they’re thinly sliced and baked to perfection, is delicious. I love how versatile plant-based meals can be—this casserole, for example, is not only gluten-free but also vegan-friendly if you skip the Parmesan cheese. It’s proof that you don’t need meat to make a filling and flavorful dish. The key is in the layering: alternating slices of potatoes, zucchini, and onions, seasoned with a mix of herbs, create a dish that’s both visually appealing and delicious. Plus, the simplicity of the ingredients means it’s economical and easy to prepare, making it a favorite in our household.
Did You Know?
Zucchini is not only delicious but also packed with nutritional benefits. It’s a low-calorie vegetable that is high in fiber, making it great for digestion. Zucchini is also rich in vitamins A and C, which are essential for maintaining healthy skin and a strong immune system. Additionally, it provides antioxidants that help protect your body from damage caused by free radicals. Including zucchini in your diet can contribute to overall health and wellness, making it a valuable addition to any meal.
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients:
- 4 medium potatoes, thinly sliced
- 3 medium zucchinis, thinly sliced
- 2 medium onions, thinly sliced
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional for a non-vegan version)
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
Prepare the Vegetables: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Lightly grease a large casserole dish with olive oil.
In a large bowl, combine the sliced potatoes, zucchini, and onions. Drizzle with olive oil and season with dried thyme, dried rosemary, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat evenly.
Personal Tip: Using a mandoline slicer ensures even, thin slices, which helps the vegetables cook uniformly and makes for a more attractive presentation.
Assemble the Casserole:
Arrange the vegetable slices in the casserole dish in rows or a circular pattern, alternating between potatoes, zucchini, and onions. Start from the outer edge and work your way towards the center, overlapping the slices slightly.
If using, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the top of the arranged vegetables.
Personal Tip: Overlapping the slices not only looks beautiful but also ensures the flavors meld together beautifully during baking.
Bake the Casserole:
Cover the casserole dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
Remove the foil and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and the top is golden brown.
Personal Tip: Removing the foil halfway through baking allows the top to become golden and slightly crispy, adding texture to the dish.
Serve:
Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Serve immediately as a side dish or a light main course.
Personal Tip: This casserole pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or a crusty piece of gluten-free bread for a complete meal.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Calories: 200 | Fat: 10g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Carbohydrates: 26g | Fiber: 4g | Sugars: 4g | Protein: 4g
Kitchen Tips, Great Ideas, How to Save Money
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Bulk Buying: Purchase potatoes, zucchini, and onions in bulk. These ingredients are staples in many recipes, and buying in larger quantities can significantly reduce the cost per unit, saving you money in the long run. Store potatoes and onions in a cool, dark place to extend their shelf life.
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Mandoline Slicer: Invest in a mandoline slicer to achieve evenly thin slices of potatoes, zucchini, and onions. This tool can save time and effort, ensuring consistent thickness for even cooking. A mandoline slicer is a worthwhile investment for many kitchen tasks.
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Herb Garden: Grow your own herbs, such as thyme, rosemary, and parsley, at home. Fresh herbs can enhance the flavor of your dishes and are more cost-effective in the long run. Having a small herb garden on your windowsill or balcony can provide a continuous supply of fresh herbs.
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Reusable Baking Tools: Invest in reusable baking dishes and silicone mats. These tools are not only environmentally friendly but also save money over time compared to disposable options. They also make cleanup easier and more efficient.
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Energy Efficiency: Bake multiple items at once if possible to save on energy costs. You can prepare a salad or another dish that requires baking while your casserole is in the oven, making the most of your oven's heat.
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Smart Storage: Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for several days, providing a convenient and delicious meal throughout the week. Reheat in the oven or microwave for a quick and easy lunch or dinner.
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Ingredient Substitutions: If certain ingredients are unavailable or too expensive, consider substituting them with more affordable alternatives. For example, use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes, or substitute the zucchini with yellow squash for a different flavor and color.
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Flavor Enhancements: Experiment with adding different flavors to your casserole, such as a sprinkle of smoked paprika or a drizzle of balsamic glaze, to add a unique twist to your dish. Fresh herbs like basil or oregano can also enhance the flavor and add a touch of freshness.
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DIY Spice Mixes: Create your own spice blends to add to the vegetables. Mixing your own thyme, rosemary, and other spices can be more cost-effective than buying pre-made blends and allows you to customize the flavors to your liking. Storing spices in airtight containers helps maintain their freshness and potency.
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Learning and Sharing: Join online cooking communities for more recipe ideas and tips. Sharing your own experiences can also help others and foster a sense of community. You can exchange recipes, cooking techniques, and meal prep tips with other home cooks, making the culinary journey more enjoyable and enriching.
What Is Parmesan Cheese?
Parmesan cheese, also known as Parmigiano-Reggiano, is a hard, granular cheese that originated in Italy. It is made from cow's milk and aged for a minimum of 12 months, resulting in a rich, nutty flavor with a slightly crumbly texture. Authentic Parmesan is produced in specific regions of Italy and is highly valued for its complex taste, making it a popular choice for grating over pasta, salads, and casseroles. The aging process gives Parmesan its distinctive sharpness, making it a versatile ingredient that enhances the flavor of a wide variety of dishes.