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Do you ever find yourself with an abundance of zucchini from the garden? Or maybe you spotted some gorgeous heirloom tomatoes at the farmers market and couldn't resist? I sure do! That's exactly how this Tomato Zucchini Tarragon Bake came to life. It’s a celebration of summer produce at its finest. Seriously, this is the easiest bake you will ever make!
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. Just a handful of ingredients, a few minutes of prep, and your oven does the rest. The tarragon adds a touch of elegance, complementing the sweetness of the tomatoes and the mildness of the zucchini. Don't skimp on the fresh herbs—they make all the difference. Feel free to experiment with cheeses! A sprinkle of parmesan adds a savory edge, but goat cheese crumbles will also be amazing.
My mother used to make a similiar gratin dish every summer, inspired by her own grandmothers garden. She always said the secret was in the layering – alternating the tomatos, zucchinis, and herbs to ensure every bite was packed with flavour. I can’t help but think of those summer nights we all sat together enjoying my mum’s cooking, whenever I make this bake. This isn't just a recipe; it's a memory on a plate. Now, I’ll hand over mum’s layering advice so you can give this bake a go yourself, right now! I guarantee you won't regret it!
Required Equipments
9x13 inch Baking Dish
Sharp Knife or Mandoline Slicer
Small Mixing Bowl
Measuring Spoons
Aluminum Foil
Tomato Zucchini Tarragon Bake: A Symphony of Summer Flavors: Frequently Asked Questions
Tomato Zucchini Tarragon Bake: A Symphony of Summer Flavors
Indulge in the vibrant flavors of summer with this Tomato Zucchini Tarragon Bake. Layers of juicy tomatoes, tender zucchini, and aromatic tarragon create a simple yet satisfying dish perfect as a side or a light meal.
⏳ Yield & Time
Yield:6 servings
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time:
🍽 Ingredients
📖 Instructions
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures even cooking throughout the bake.
Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with olive oil. This will prevent the vegetables from sticking and add a subtle richness.
Thinly slice 2 medium zucchini and 3 medium tomatoes. Aim for slices about 1/4 inch thick, so they cook evenly. A mandoline slicer can be helpful for this, but a sharp knife works just as well.
In a small bowl, combine 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh tarragon, 1 clove of minced garlic, salt, and pepper to taste. This aromatic oil mixture will infuse the vegetables with flavor.
Arrange a layer of zucchini slices in the prepared baking dish, slightly overlapping. Then, arrange a layer of tomato slices on top of the zucchini, also slightly overlapping. Don't be afraid to pile them high!
Drizzle a portion of the tarragon-garlic oil mixture over the tomato layer. Ensure even distribution for maximum flavor.
Repeat the layers of zucchini, tomatoes, and tarragon-garlic oil until all the vegetables are used. The top layer should be tomatoes, drizzled with the remaining oil.
Sprinkle 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese (optional) over the top layer. This adds a savory, slightly nutty note to the bake. Alternatively, use goat cheese for a creamier, tangier flavor.
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil. This will help the vegetables steam and cook evenly without burning. For best results, don’t leave any gaps!
Bake for 30 minutes covered. Then, remove the foil and bake for another 15-20 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and the topping is golden brown and bubbly. Keep an eye on it – ovens vary!
Let the bake rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together and the bake to set slightly.
Garnish with additional fresh tarragon leaves (optional) before serving. A sprinkle of fresh herbs always elevates the presentation.
Serve warm as a side dish or a light vegetarian meal. It pairs well with grilled chicken, fish, or a simple salad.