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Cheesy Garlic Zucchini Steaks Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.2 from 59 reviews
  • Author: Kimberly
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Side Dish
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Cheesy Garlic Zucchini Steaks are a flavorful, low-carb vegetarian dish perfect for a quick and satisfying meal. Tender zucchini halves are scored to allow seasoning to penetrate, seared to a golden brown, topped with a fragrant garlic oil and a blend of mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses, then baked and broiled to melty perfection. Finished with fresh basil and a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes, this dish offers a delicious balance of savory, spicy, and herbal notes in just 30 minutes.

Ingredients

Zucchini Steaks

  • 2 medium zucchini
  • Kosher salt
  • 4 cloves garlic, finely chopped or grated
  • 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes, plus more for serving
  • 4 Tbsp extra-virgin olive oil, divided

Cheese Topping

  • 2 oz mozzarella, shredded (about 1/2 cup)
  • 1 oz Parmesan, finely shredded (about 1/2 cup)

Garnish

  • 2 Tbsp fresh basil, torn

Instructions

  1. Prepare Zucchini: Slice each zucchini in half lengthwise to create 4 steaks. Score the flesh side diagonally about 1/4 inch deep at half-inch intervals in one direction, then rotate 90° and score diagonally again to create a crosshatch pattern. Season the zucchini steaks evenly with 1 teaspoon kosher salt and let them sit for about 15 minutes to release excess moisture.
  2. Make Garlic Oil: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) with a rack positioned in the center. Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add 2 tablespoons of olive oil, along with the finely chopped garlic and 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes. Cook until fragrant, about 1 to 2 minutes without letting the garlic brown. Transfer this garlic-infused oil to a small bowl and set aside.
  3. Sear Zucchini: In the same skillet, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and heat over medium-high. Pat the zucchini steaks dry with paper towels to remove moisture. Place two zucchini halves flesh side down in the skillet and sear until golden brown, about 2 to 3 minutes. Move them to a baking sheet with the flesh side facing up. Repeat this process with the remaining zucchini and another tablespoon of olive oil.
  4. Brush and Bake: Brush the top (flesh side) of the zucchini steaks generously with the prepared garlic oil. Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the zucchini until tender, about 8 to 10 minutes.
  5. Add Cheese and Broil: Remove the baking sheet from the oven and sprinkle the zucchini steaks evenly with shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Switch your oven to the broil setting on high. Broil the zucchini steaks for 2 to 3 minutes or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and beginning to brown.
  6. Garnish and Serve: Transfer the cheesy garlic zucchini steaks to a serving platter. Sprinkle torn fresh basil over the top along with additional crushed red pepper flakes if desired. Serve warm as a flavorful appetizer, side dish, or light main course.

Notes

  • Scoring the zucchini helps the seasoning penetrate and creates a better surface for browning and cheese adhesion.
  • Be careful not to burn the garlic while infusing the oil, as burnt garlic can turn bitter.
  • Patting the zucchini dry before searing helps achieve a nice golden crust.
  • Use fresh high-quality mozzarella and Parmesan for best melting and flavor.
  • Adjust the amount of crushed red pepper flakes to taste if you prefer more or less heat.
  • This dish is best served immediately to enjoy the melted cheese texture.

Find it online: https://slsrecipes.com/cheesy-garlic-zucchini-steaks-recipe-3/