Description
This Easy Oven-Roasted Zucchini, Squash, and Tomatoes with Parmesan is a simple and flavorful vegetable side dish perfect for any meal. It features tender roasted zucchini and yellow squash combined with juicy cherry tomatoes, all enhanced with garlic, Italian seasoning, and a generous sprinkle of melted Parmesan cheese. Finished with fresh herbs, this healthy and vibrant recipe takes just 35 minutes from prep to table and yields 4 servings.
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables
- 2 medium zucchini, sliced into half-moons
- 2 medium yellow squash, sliced into half-moons
- 1½ cups cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
Seasonings & Oils
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional)
Toppings & Garnish
- â…“ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easy.
- Combine vegetables: In a large mixing bowl, place the sliced zucchini, yellow squash, and halved cherry tomatoes, preparing them evenly for seasoning.
- Season vegetables: Drizzle the olive oil over the vegetables, then add the minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning if using. Toss everything together thoroughly until the vegetables are evenly coated with the oil and seasonings.
- Arrange on baking sheet: Spread the seasoned vegetables out in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet to ensure even roasting.
- Roast first batch: Place the baking sheet in the oven and roast the vegetables for 15 to 20 minutes, stirring once halfway through to promote even cooking and gentle browning. The vegetables should become tender and slightly golden.
- Add Parmesan cheese: Remove the baking sheet from the oven and sprinkle the freshly grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the roasted vegetables.
- Finish roasting: Return the baking sheet to the oven and roast for an additional 3 to 5 minutes, or until the Parmesan cheese melts and turns lightly browned and bubbly.
- Garnish and serve: Once finished, garnish the roasted vegetables with chopped fresh basil or parsley if desired. Serve warm as a delicious, healthy side dish.
Notes
- You can substitute Parmesan with Pecorino Romano or another hard cheese if preferred.
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes along with the seasonings.
- Make sure to cut vegetables evenly for uniform cooking.
- Use fresh herbs at the end to preserve their bright flavor and color.
- This dish pairs well with grilled meats, roasted chicken, or as a vegetarian main with crusty bread.
