Zucchini Gratin with Yellow Squash

Delight your taste buds with the creamy goodness of this Zucchini Gratin with Yellow Squash. Perfect for showcasing the flavors of fresh zucchini and yellow squash, this gratin is baked to perfection with layers of tender vegetables, rich cream sauce, and golden cheese topping. Whether served as a side dish or a vegetarian main course, this gratin is sure to impress. Here’s how to make it:

Ingredients:

• 2 medium zucchinis, thinly sliced
• 2 medium yellow squashes, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 cup milk
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup shredded Gruyere cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
• 2 tablespoons breadcrumbs (optional)
• Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish with butter or non-stick cooking spray and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced zucchinis and yellow squashes to the skillet and sauté for 5-6 minutes, or until softened. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, melt the remaining butter over medium heat. Whisk in the all-purpose flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to make a roux.
4. Gradually whisk in the milk and heavy cream, stirring constantly, until the mixture is smooth and thickened.
5. Stir in the shredded Gruyere cheese until melted and smooth. Season the sauce with salt, pepper, and nutmeg (if using), to taste.
6. Arrange half of the sautéed zucchini and yellow squash slices in the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
7. Pour half of the cheese sauce over the vegetables, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
8. Repeat the layers with the remaining zucchini and yellow squash slices and cheese sauce.
9. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top of the gratin. If desired, sprinkle breadcrumbs over the cheese for added crunch.
10. Bake the Zucchini Gratin with Yellow Squash in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until bubbly and golden brown on top.
11. Remove the gratin from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
12. Garnish the gratin with chopped fresh parsley before serving.

Tips:

• You can customize this gratin by adding other vegetables such as sliced onions, bell peppers, or mushrooms for extra flavor and texture.
• For a lighter version, you can use half-and-half or whole milk instead of heavy cream in the cheese sauce.
• Leftover gratin can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat it in the oven or microwave before serving.

Conclusion:

Zucchini Gratin with Yellow Squash is a delicious and satisfying dish that’s perfect for showcasing the flavors of fresh summer vegetables. Whether served as a side dish alongside grilled meats or as a vegetarian main course, its creamy texture and golden cheesy topping are sure to please your palate. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, this gratin is a great way to enjoy the bounty of the season.