Speedy Feta-Free Tomato Bake

A vibrant, cheesy tomato bake that comes together quickly without feta&mdashperfect for weeknight dinners or as a hearty side.

This recipe quickly became a favorite in my household for its simplicity and rich taste.

Ingredients

• Vegetables: 700 g (1.5 lbs) ripe tomatoes, sliced, 1 small red onion, thinly sliced, 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Cheese: 125 g (4.5 oz) fresh mozzarella, torn or sliced, 40 g (1/4 cup) grated Parmesan cheese
• Herbs & Seasoning: 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil, 1 tsp dried oregano, 1/2 tsp dried basil, Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Garnish (optional): Fresh basil leaves

Instructions

Step 1:

Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).

Step 2:

Lightly oil a medium baking dish. Arrange half the tomato slices in a single layer.

Step 3:

Sprinkle half the red onion and half the minced garlic over the tomatoes. Season lightly with salt, pepper, oregano, and basil.

Step 4:

Layer half the mozzarella over the vegetables.

Step 5:

Repeat with the remaining tomatoes, onion, garlic, seasonings, and mozzarella.

Step 6:

Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle Parmesan evenly over the top.

Step 7:

Bake for 20 25 minutes, until the cheese is golden and bubbly and the tomatoes are tender.

Step 8:

Let cool slightly. Top with fresh basil before serving.

Pin

This dish often brings my family together for a cozy meal that everyone enjoys.

Notes

For extra flavor, add a handful of sliced olives or roasted red peppers between the layers. Swap mozzarella for ricotta or goat cheese if desired, still feta-free. Serve with crusty bread or over cooked pasta for a complete meal.

Required Tools

Medium baking dish, Chefs knife, Cutting board, Grater

Nutritional Information

Calories: 210, Total Fat: 13 g, Carbohydrates: 11 g, Protein: 11 g per serving

Pin

This speedy tomato bake is a versatile and satisfying addition to any meal.

Recipe Q&A

→ Can I substitute mozzarella with another cheese?

Yes, fresh mozzarella can be replaced with ricotta or goat cheese for a different flavor while keeping the creamy texture.

→ How can I add extra flavor to this dish?

Adding sliced olives or roasted red peppers between the tomato layers enhances depth and introduces more Mediterranean notes.

→ Is it possible to prepare this ahead of time?

You can assemble the layers in advance and refrigerate before baking to streamline meal prep on busy days.

→ What sides pair well with this tomato bake?

Crusty bread or cooked pasta complement the dish nicely, turning it into a more filling meal.

→ Can I make this dish vegan?

For a vegan option, substitute the cheeses with plant-based alternatives and ensure seasoning suits your preference.