Pin 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.