Savor the delightful combination of fresh vegetables and creamy cheese with our Zucchini Gratin with Yellow Squash. This hearty, flavorful dish is perfect as a side or a main course, showcasing the best of summer produce in a rich, comforting gratin.

History of Gratin

The gratin technique originates from French cuisine, where it is traditionally used to create dishes with a deliciously browned, crispy crust. Gratin dishes are typically made with vegetables, potatoes, or pasta, combined with a rich, creamy sauce and topped with breadcrumbs or cheese. The Zucchini Gratin with Yellow Squash is a delightful variation that highlights the fresh, seasonal flavors of these versatile squashes.

Ingredients

To make this scrumptious Zucchini Gratin with Yellow Squash, you will need the following ingredients:

For the Gratin:

• 2 medium zucchinis, thinly sliced
• 2 medium yellow squashes, thinly sliced
• 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup grated Gruyère cheese
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Optional Garnishes:

• Chopped fresh parsley
• Extra grated Parmesan

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Vegetables

1. Preheat Your Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil or butter.
2. Slice the Vegetables: Thinly slice the zucchinis and yellow squashes into rounds. A mandoline slicer can help achieve uniform slices. Thinly slice the onion and mince the garlic.
3. Sauté the Onions and Garlic: In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and minced garlic, sautéing until the onions are soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.

Assembling the Gratin

1. Layer the Vegetables: In the prepared baking dish, arrange a layer of zucchini slices, followed by a layer of yellow squash slices. Scatter a portion of the sautéed onions and garlic over the vegetables. Repeat the layers until all the vegetables and onions are used, ending with a layer of squash.
2. Season the Layers: Sprinkle each layer with a bit of salt, black pepper, and dried thyme as you go. This ensures that the seasoning is evenly distributed throughout the dish.
3. Add the Cream and Cheese: Pour the heavy cream evenly over the layered vegetables. Sprinkle the grated Gruyère cheese and Parmesan cheese over the top.

Topping and Baking

1. Prepare the Breadcrumb Topping: In a small bowl, combine the breadcrumbs and melted butter, mixing until the breadcrumbs are evenly coated. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the top of the gratin.
2. Bake the Gratin: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the vegetables are tender when pierced with a fork.
3. Broil for a Crispier Top (Optional): For an extra crispy topping, you can broil the gratin for an additional 2-3 minutes, watching carefully to avoid burning.

Garnishing and Serving

1. Add Garnishes: Once the gratin is out of the oven, let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and a sprinkle of extra grated Parmesan for added flavor and a pop of color.
2. Serve: Slice the Zucchini Gratin with Yellow Squash into portions and serve warm. This dish pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad and a glass of white wine, making it a delightful addition to any meal.

Storage and Reheating

Leftover gratin can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place portions in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.

Serving Suggestions

This Zucchini Gratin with Yellow Squash is versatile and can be served as a side dish to accompany roasted meats, grilled fish, or even a simple pasta dish. As a main course, it is hearty enough to stand on its own, especially when paired with a side of crusty bread and a fresh salad. The creamy, cheesy texture and savory flavor make it a comforting and satisfying dish for any occasion.