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Mediterranean Baked Zucchini with Garlic Dill Sauce: A Fresh and Flavorful Dish
Zucchini is a versatile vegetable, loved for its mild flavor and tender texture. Whether you’re grilling, sautéing, or baking, zucchini can easily be transformed into a delicious dish. If you’re looking for a Mediterranean-inspired recipe that’s light, refreshing, and packed with flavor, then this Mediterranean Baked Zucchini with Garlic Dill Sauce is the perfect choice.
This dish combines the wholesome goodness of zucchini with aromatic Mediterranean spices and a creamy garlic dill sauce that will take your taste buds on a journey to the sun-kissed shores of the Mediterranean. It’s an easy-to-make recipe that’s both healthy and satisfying, ideal for a quick weeknight meal or a vibrant side dish to accompany any main course.
Ingredients for Mediterranean Baked Zucchini
For the Zucchini:
- 4 medium zucchinis, sliced into rounds or halves (depending on your preference)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh lemon zest (optional, for added freshness)
For the Garlic Dill Sauce:
- 1 cup Greek yogurt (or dairy-free alternative)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried dill)
- 1 garlic clove, minced (or more for extra flavor)
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Zucchini
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven heats up, prepare the zucchini by washing and slicing it into rounds, or if you prefer, cut the zucchini in half lengthwise. This helps to expose the interior for better seasoning.
Place the zucchini slices onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil and toss to coat evenly. Sprinkle with dried oregano, thyme (if using), garlic powder, and salt and pepper to taste. You can also add a little fresh lemon zest for a touch of brightness.
Step 2: Bake the Zucchini
Place the zucchini in the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the zucchini is tender and golden brown on the edges. If you want them a little crispier, feel free to broil them for the last 2-3 minutes, keeping an eye on them to prevent burning.
Step 3: Prepare the Garlic Dill Sauce
While the zucchini bakes, prepare the garlic dill sauce. In a small bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, olive oil, chopped dill, minced garlic, lemon juice, and salt and pepper. Whisk until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed—if you like a more garlicky sauce, feel free to add extra garlic!
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
Once the zucchini is done, remove it from the oven and transfer it to a serving dish. Drizzle the garlic dill sauce generously over the baked zucchini or serve it on the side as a dip.
For an extra touch, garnish with more fresh dill, a squeeze of fresh lemon juice, or a sprinkle of crumbled feta cheese for that classic Mediterranean flair.
Why You’ll Love This Mediterranean Baked Zucchini
1. Simple and Flavorful: This dish is incredibly easy to prepare and full of Mediterranean flavors. The herbs and garlic bring out the natural sweetness of the zucchini, while the yogurt-based sauce adds a creamy, tangy contrast that makes every bite burst with flavor.
2. Healthy and Light: Zucchini is low in calories and packed with vitamins and antioxidants. Combined with the creamy, protein-rich Greek yogurt sauce, this dish offers a satisfying yet light option for anyone looking for a healthy meal.
3. Versatile: This baked zucchini with garlic dill sauce can be served as a main dish for vegetarians or as a flavorful side dish to complement meats like grilled chicken, lamb, or fish. It’s also a great addition to Mediterranean-inspired salads, pasta, or grain bowls.
4. Fresh and Colorful: The vibrant green zucchini paired with the creamy white garlic dill sauce creates a visually appealing dish that looks as good as it tastes. It’s perfect for serving at dinner parties, potlucks, or just a casual weeknight meal.
