Zucchini is rich in antioxidants, vitamin A and C. This dish can be very savory and serve as your whole meal. The key to cooking zucchini is to use a higher temperature and cook for a short period of time. If your temp is too low, then it may get wilted and soggy. If you prefer to grill these, then slice them length-wise instead of circular. Some people like to par boil the zucchini for 3 minutes before baking, but I will leave this up to you. I don’t do that. I either grill it or follow these directions.
Ingredients
3 large zucchini, washed and sliced round (no need to peel if organic)
1/4 cup grape seed or avocado oil
1/2 cup Asiago or Parmesan cheese, shredded (For a dairy free option, see below)
Sea salt and pepper to taste
2 teaspoons of your favorite seasoning (I like dried onion-garlic powder or one called “Everything but the Bagel”).
Optional: Paprika or chili powder
NOTE: For a dairy free option, substitute the cheese for Kite Hill® ricotta or Daiya® cheese, or even basil pesto sauce!
Directions
Preheat oven to 425 degree. In a large mixing bowl, toss together your zucchini slices with the oil, salt/pepper and seasoning mix. Spread it out in a single layer on a baking sheet, and top each slice with a spoon of cheese (or cheese substitute, see above). Bake for 5 – 7 minutes, and then turn up the heat to broil for about 2 – 3 minutes until the cheese is melted and your mouth is watering. Serve warm.
Suzy Cohen, RPh, has been a licensed pharmacist for over 30 years, blending conventional medicine with natural approaches to help people feel better and live healthier. She is the founder of Script Essentials, a supplement company known for targeted, custom-formulated products, some with patented innovations.
With a special focus on thyroid health, functional medicine, and drug-induced nutrient depletion (what she calls “drug muggers”), Suzy is the author of several books including Thyroid Healthy, Drug Muggers, and Diabetes Without Drugs. She also writes a nationally syndicated health column and shares practical, easy-to-understand guidance with readers around the world.
