This Hasselback Zucchini with Cheese & Herbs is a light, nutritious, and delicious dish that works perfectly as a healthy dinner, side dish, or high-protein snack. Inspired by the traditional Hasselback potato, this recipe features thinly sliced zucchini filled with melted cheese and aromatic herbs, making it a low-carb, keto-friendly, and satisfying meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Low in Carbs, High in Flavor – A great alternative to traditional starchy sides.
- Simple & Quick – Minimal prep and just 25 minutes of baking time.
- Nutritious & Healthy – Packed with fiber, vitamins, and protein.
- Customizable – Add different cheeses, herbs, or proteins to suit your taste.
- Visually Stunning – The Hasselback slicing technique makes it look elegant and impressive.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 1 medium zucchini
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano or parsley
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
- 4 slices of mozzarella or cheddar cheese
- 2 slices of turkey or smoked ham (optional)
Directions
- Preheat the Oven – Set your oven to 200°C (400°F).
- Prepare the Zucchini – Wash and dry the zucchini. Slice it thinly without cutting all the way through, keeping the base intact (like a Hasselback potato).
- Season It – Brush the zucchini with olive oil, then sprinkle garlic powder, oregano, salt, pepper, and chili flakes for extra heat.
- Add the Fillings – Carefully insert cheese slices (and turkey or ham, if using) between the zucchini slices.
- Bake – Place the zucchini on a baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the zucchini is tender.
- Garnish and Serve – Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve warm.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 1-2
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
- Total Time: 30-35 minutes
Variations
- Dairy-Free Option: Use dairy-free cheese or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
- Extra Protein: Add grilled chicken, turkey, or smoked salmon between the slices.
- Spicy Version: Sprinkle cayenne pepper or extra chili flakes for more heat.
- Different Cheeses: Try goat cheese, gouda, or feta for a unique taste.
- Herb Upgrade: Add fresh basil, thyme, or rosemary for an aromatic twist.
Storage and Reheating
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Reheating: Warm in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for 5-7 minutes or in an air fryer for extra crispiness.
- Make-Ahead Tip: Slice and season the zucchini in advance, then bake just before serving.
FAQs
1. Can I make this in an air fryer?
Yes! Air fry at 180°C (350°F) for about 15 minutes until tender and golden.
2. What type of cheese works best?
Mozzarella, cheddar, gouda, or feta are great choices, depending on your preference.
3. Can I use another vegetable?
Yes! Try this method with eggplant, bell peppers, or sweet potatoes.
4. Is this recipe keto-friendly?
Yes, it’s low-carb, high in healthy fats, and keto-approved.
5. How do I prevent the zucchini from becoming too soft?
Bake until just tender—avoid overcooking to keep a slight bite.
6. Can I make this vegan?
Yes! Use vegan cheese and plant-based protein options like tofu or tempeh.
7. What can I serve this with?
Pair with a yogurt dip, guacamole, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
8. Can I grill this instead of baking?
Yes! Grill on medium heat for about 10-15 minutes, covering with foil to melt the cheese.
9. What’s the best way to cut the zucchini without slicing through?
Place chopsticks on either side of the zucchini as a guide to prevent cutting all the way down.
10. Can I meal prep this dish?
Yes! Prepare and store in the fridge, then bake when ready to eat.
Conclusion
This Hasselback Zucchini with Cheese & Herbs is an easy, healthy, and delicious way to enjoy a vegetable-packed meal. Whether you serve it as a side dish, snack, or light dinner, this recipe is a low-carb, high-protein, and flavorful option that’s both nutritious and visually appealing. Try it today for a simple yet gourmet-style dish!
