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Courgette Parmigiana with Toasted Pine Nuts

Craving comfort food? This easy courgette bake is gluten-free and packed with flavor. Get the recipe and bake up some happiness tonight!


Gluten-free courgette bake with toasted pine nuts

Discover the Delights of Gluten-Free Courgette Bake

Looking for a flavorful and satisfying gluten-free dish? This courgette bake is a fantastic option, perfect as a main course or a hearty side. It’s easy to adapt and packed with fresh ingredients, making it a wonderful addition to your gluten-free recipe collection. If you’re a fan of vegetable-based dishes, you might also enjoy our Slow Cooker Ratatouille, another gluten-free favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This courgette bake is not only delicious but also caters perfectly to a gluten-free lifestyle. Using simple, wholesome ingredients, it’s naturally gluten-free and easy to customize. Love a cheesy bake? Also give our Gluten-Free Baked Ziti a try. For those avoiding gluten, finding versatile recipes is key, and this bake fits the bill perfectly.

Tips for Gluten-Free Baking and Cooking

When preparing this courgette bake, ensure all your ingredients are certified gluten-free to avoid cross-contamination. For the cheese, check labels carefully, as some processed cheeses may contain gluten. If you’re looking for more gluten-free side dish ideas, our Parmentier Potatoes are always a big hit.

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Hands layering ingredients for a courgette bake

Making Your Courgette Bake: A Step-by-Step Guide

Follow these simple steps to create a delicious and satisfying courgette bake. This recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it a perfect choice for anyone avoiding gluten. Let’s get started!

Step 1: Prepare the Aromatic Tomato Sauce

Begin by heating 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a medium pan over medium heat. Once the olive oil shimmers, add the minced garlic and a pinch of chilli flakes. Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the garlic turns lightly golden. Be careful not to burn the garlic. Next, pour in the passata, followed by a splash of water to loosen the sauce.

Step 2: Simmer the Sauce

Add the chopped basil and a pinch of salt to the pan. Bring the sauce to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover the pan with a lid, leaving it slightly ajar, and let it bubble gently for 20-25 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.

Step 3: Fry the Courgettes

Pour 75ml of oil into a deep frying pan and warm over a medium heat. Fry the courgettes in batches for 2-3 minutes on each side until they are golden brown. Avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure even frying. Once fried, drain the courgettes on kitchen paper to remove excess oil.

Step 4: Finishing the Sauce

Once the sauce has reduced to your liking, pour in the vinegar and sprinkle in the sugar. Season the sauce to taste with additional salt and pepper as needed.

Step 5: Assemble the Courgette Bake

Preheat your oven to 200C/180C fan/gas 6. Pour a ladleful of sauce onto the bottom of a roasting dish. Lay some fried courgettes on top of the sauce, and then scatter over some mozzarella and parmesan. Continue layering the ingredients – sauce, courgettes, mozzarella, and parmesan – until all the ingredients are used up, reserving some mozzarella and parmesan for the top.

Step 6: Bake to Golden Perfection

Sprinkle the pine nuts evenly over the top of the bake. Place the roasting dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the bake is bubbling.

Step 7: Cool and Serve

Remove the courgette bake from the oven and let it cool for 15 minutes before serving. This allows the bake to set slightly and the flavors to meld even further. Serve warm with a fresh green salad for a complete and satisfying meal. Enjoy!


Gluten-free courgette bake ingredients flat lay

Ingredients for Our Gluten-Free Courgette Bake

  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 garlic cloves, finely sliced
  • ½ tsp chilli flakes
  • 700ml passata
  • Small bunch of basil, leaves picked
  • 75ml olive oil, for frying
  • 4 courgettes, sliced into rounds
  • 1 tbsp red wine vinegar
  • 1 tsp sugar
  • 125g mozzarella ball, torn
  • 50g parmesan, finely grated
  • 25g pine nuts

Nutritional Benefits of This Gluten-Free Courgette Bake

This Courgette Bake is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients and naturally gluten-free! Courgettes are low in calories and high in vitamins A and C, while the passata provides a good source of lycopene, an antioxidant. Using gluten-free ingredients ensures that everyone can enjoy this dish without digestive discomfort. Parmesan cheese is naturally gluten-free, but make sure to check the label to avoid any cross-contamination if you are highly sensitive.

Health Highlights:

  • Gluten-Free: Naturally free of gluten, making it suitable for those with celiac disease or gluten intolerance.
  • Low-Carb Option: Courgettes are low in carbohydrates, making this a great option for those watching their carb intake.
  • Rich in Vitamins: Packed with vitamins A and C, supporting overall health and immune function.
  • Source of Antioxidants: Passata provides lycopene, an antioxidant known for its health benefits.

Tips and Variations for Your Courgette Bake

Get creative with your Courgette Bake! Here are some tips and variations to suit different dietary needs and preferences:

Dietary Adaptations:

  • Dairy-Free: Substitute the mozzarella and parmesan with your favorite dairy-free alternatives. There are many great vegan mozzarella and parmesan options available that melt beautifully.
  • Vegetarian: This recipe is naturally vegetarian.
  • Vegan: To make it fully vegan, replace the mozzarella and parmesan with plant-based alternatives.

Ingredient Swaps and Additions:

  • Cheese Variations: Experiment with other cheeses like ricotta or provolone for different flavors.
  • Herb Options: Fresh oregano, thyme, or marjoram can be used instead of or in addition to basil.
  • Spice It Up: Adjust the amount of chilli flakes to suit your spice preference. You can also add a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat.
  • Vegetable Additions: Add slices of eggplant or bell peppers along with the courgette for a more diverse vegetable bake.
  • Nut-Free: If you have a nut allergy, simply omit the pine nuts or replace them with toasted sunflower seeds.

Tips for the Best Courgette Bake:

  • Frying the Courgettes: Frying the courgettes before baking ensures they have a lovely golden color and slightly crispy texture. Don’t overcrowd the pan; fry them in batches.
  • The Sauce: Simmering the passata sauce for the recommended time allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
  • Assembly: When layering the ingredients, ensure each layer is evenly distributed for the best flavor in every bite.
  • Serving Suggestions: Serve this Courgette Bake with a fresh green salad or a side of gluten-free crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

Enjoy your delicious and nutritious gluten-free Courgette Bake! This recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy fresh courgettes while catering to gluten-free dietary needs. Feel free to experiment with the variations to create your perfect bake.

Essential Equipment for This Recipe

To prepare this delicious recipe, you’ll need the following kitchen tools:

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