Side Dish with a Kick
Kitchen Veggie Staples
My kitchen seems to always have tomatoes and zucchini on hand.
Tomatoes are sweet and flavorful. They're the perfect addition to salads, sauces, salsas, a number of soups and more. Roma tomatoes and grape/cherry tomatoes normally have a longer counter life. While zucchini lends itself to most any recipe as a sponge. Zucchini soaks up the flavor whether sweet, spicy or savory and is the ingredient I use to "bulk up" a stir fry or soup. When I'm out of cucumber, I substitute with zucchini.
Zucchini Tomato Bake is my go-to when I'm tired or need a quick side dish. It never disappoints and certainly fulfills my philosophy of Simplicity is Key.
Air Fryer Zucchini Tomato Bake Recipe
Ingredients
- 1/2 medium zucchini, sliced in halves or quarters
- 1/2 Roma tomato or a handful of grape tomatoes, sliced
- 1 Thai chili, remove seeds for less heat - or - 1/4 tsp red chili flakes
- 1/4 - 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning, basil or oregano
- 1/2 tsp vegan Parmesan, grated
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- a drizzle of avocado oil
Instructions
Step 1 - Pour a little avocado oil into the casserole dish. Spread around all areas with your fingers to avoid sticking while baking.
Step 2 - Add the zucchini, tomatoes, Parmesan, pepper, spices and oil right into the casserole. Stir and make certain the oil coats all ingredients. Sprinkle the top with more Parm. Cover and refrigerate until ready to bake.
Step 3 - Bake for 10 - 12 minutes at 365 degrees Fahrenheit. Check and stir half way through. Pierce with a fork or paring knife to determine doneness. The bake is best when the zucchini is crisp.
Note - I have tried both the Roast and Air Fry settings. The air fry setting seems to go a little slower and keeps the dish crisp. As always, you know your appliances best. Adjust time and temps as needed.
I've made this so many times and have forgotten to take photos, as I did last night.😂 When I do get those pics, I'll be sure to update the post.
I finally remembered the finished dish photo. As always, the dish was yummy! 😋
Until then, give this a try and let me know what you think. 🙏
Eat Well! Stay Well! Live Well!