This Cheesy Zucchini Corn Tomato Bake is what summer dreams are made of—fresh vegetables, melted cheese, and a crispy golden Parmesan crust. It’s bright, cozy, and so easy to toss together. Perfect for a light dinner, colorful side, or even a lazy brunch addition.

Why You’ll Love This Dish

It’s packed with seasonal veggies and flavor but still feels indulgent thanks to the creamy cheese and that addictive crust. Plus, it’s a beautiful dish that looks as good as it tastes!

Chef’s Pro Tips for Perfect Results

• Salt and drain zucchini slices before baking to avoid sogginess
• Use sweet, ripe cherry tomatoes for best flavor
• Don’t skip the Parmesan crust—it adds texture and richness
• Fresh herbs make all the difference here
• Bake uncovered to let that cheese crisp up

Ingredients

For the Bake:

• 2 medium zucchinis, thinly sliced
• 1 ½ cups fresh or frozen corn kernels
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• ¼ cup chopped fresh basil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil for drizzling

For the Parmesan Crust:

• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons melted butter
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano or Italian seasoning

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Place zucchini slices in a colander, sprinkle with salt, and let sit for 10–15 minutes. Pat dry.
3. In a large bowl, mix zucchini, corn, tomatoes, onion, garlic, mozzarella, basil, salt, and pepper. Drizzle with a bit of olive oil.
4. Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish and spread evenly.
5. In a small bowl, mix together Parmesan, panko, melted butter, and oregano.
6. Sprinkle the crust mixture evenly over the vegetables.
7. Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes or until the top is golden and the veggies are tender.
8. Optional: Broil for 2–3 minutes at the end for extra crispiness.
9. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Texture & Flavor Secrets

• Mozzarella gives you the perfect melty factor
• Parmesan crust adds crunch and umami
• Tomatoes and corn bring sweetness
• Zucchini adds moisture and body without overpowering

How to Serve This Dish

• As a meatless main dish with crusty bread
• As a summery side to grilled chicken or fish
• Over quinoa or couscous for a light dinner
• Topped with a fried egg for a veggie brunch

Creative Leftover Transformations

• Toss with pasta or rice
• Use as a filling in omelets or wraps
• Turn into a savory galette or pie
• Layer into grilled cheese sandwiches

Additional Tips

• Add cooked bacon or sausage for a heartier version
• Use smoked mozzarella for extra depth
• Stir in a spoon of pesto before baking for extra flavor
• Try adding mushrooms or spinach if you’ve got them on hand

Make It a Showstopper (Presentation Ideas)

• Bake in a cast iron skillet for rustic flair
• Garnish with fresh basil and a drizzle of balsamic glaze
• Serve in individual ramekins or mini casseroles
• Add edible flowers or microgreens for color

FAQ’s

1. Can I make this ahead?
   Yes! Assemble it a few hours in advance, cover, and refrigerate. Bake when ready.
2. Can I freeze it?
   Not ideal—zucchini and tomatoes release a lot of water when thawed. Fresh is best.
3. What other cheese can I use?
   Fontina, gouda, or cheddar all work beautifully.
4. Can I make it dairy-free?
   Yes—use plant-based cheese and vegan butter.
5. What if I don’t have fresh corn?
   Frozen or canned corn (drained) work just fine.
6. How do I keep the zucchini from getting soggy?
   Salt and drain before using—it really helps.
7. Is this keto-friendly?
   Almost! Skip the panko and reduce the corn for a low-carb twist.
8. Can I add protein?
   Absolutely—stir in cooked chicken, sausage, or beans.
9. Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?
   Yes—use about 1/3 the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated.
10. Can I cook this in the air fryer?
    Yes, in a smaller dish—reduce time and keep an eye on the crust!

Conclusion

This Cheesy Zucchini Corn Tomato Bake is a love letter to summer—fresh, flavorful, and totally fuss-free. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just craving something bright and cozy, this one’s sure to be a repeat favorite.

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