Zucchini and Yellow Squash Au Gratin – A Light & Elegant Side Dish!
There’s something undeniably comforting about a golden, cheesy gratin—but who says it has to be heavy? This Zucchini and Yellow Squash Au Gratin is a lighter take on the classic, featuring tender summer squash, a creamy (yet not overly rich) sauce, and a crisp, Parmesan-panko topping. The flavors are delicate yet satisfying, with the natural sweetness of zucchini and yellow squash balancing the savory garlic and nutty Gruyère.
Perfect for dinner parties, holiday meals, or a simple weeknight side, this dish feels indulgent without weighing you down. And the best part? It’s ready in under an hour, making it an effortless way to impress. Whether you’re looking for a healthier alternative to traditional gratins or just want to make the most of summer produce, this recipe is a must-try!
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Table of Contents
Key Info Box
Prep Time: 15 min | Cook Time: 35 min
Difficulty: Easy | Cost: $$ (moderate)
Servings: 6
Ingredients (Detailed)
Fresh, seasonal, and light:
- 2 medium zucchinis (about 1 lb), thinly sliced
- 2 medium yellow squash (about 1 lb), thinly sliced
- 1 tbsp olive oil (plus extra for greasing)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese (or Swiss for a milder flavor)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided
- ½ cup low-fat milk (or unsweetened almond milk for dairy-free)
- ¼ cup Greek yogurt (or coconut cream for vegan)
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard (adds depth)
- ½ tsp dried thyme (or 1 tsp fresh)
- ¼ tsp nutmeg (enhances creaminess)
- ½ cup panko breadcrumbs (whole wheat for extra fiber)
- Salt & black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prep the Squash
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×9-inch baking dish with olive oil.
- Slice zucchini and yellow squash into ¼-inch rounds (a mandoline ensures even cooking).
- In a large bowl, toss the squash with 1 tbsp olive oil, minced garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Make the Creamy Sauce
- In a small saucepan over low heat, warm the milk, Greek yogurt, and Dijon mustard, stirring until smooth.
- Remove from heat and stir in ½ cup Gruyère and ¼ cup Parmesan until melted. Add nutmeg for warmth.
- Layer the Gratin
- Arrange half the squash slices in the baking dish, slightly overlapping.
- Pour half the sauce evenly over the squash.
- Repeat with the remaining squash and sauce.
- Add the Crispy Topping
- In a small bowl, mix panko, remaining ¼ cup Parmesan, and a drizzle of olive oil.
- Sprinkle evenly over the gratin for a golden crust.
- Bake to Perfection
- Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
- Uncover and bake another 15 minutes until bubbly and golden.
- Let rest 5 minutes before garnishing with fresh parsley.
Pro Tips:
- “Pat squash dry before tossing to prevent excess moisture.”
- “Swap panko for almond flour for a gluten-free crunch.”
- “Let gratin sit before serving—it firms up beautifully!”
Health Benefits
This gratin is packed with nutrients while keeping calories in check:
- Zucchini & Yellow Squash: Low in carbs, high in vitamin C and fiber for digestion.
- Greek Yogurt: Adds protein and probiotics without heavy cream.
- Gruyère Cheese: A rich source of calcium with a stronger flavor, so you use less.
- Panko-Parmesan Topping: Provides satisfying crunch without deep-frying.
Variations & Swaps
- Vegan: Use nutritional yeast + coconut milk instead of cheese and yogurt.
- Extra Protein: Add thinly sliced chicken sausage between layers.
- Herb Lover’s: Mix in fresh basil or rosemary for a fragrant twist.
Serving & Storage Tips
- Serve With: Grilled fish, roasted chicken, or a fresh arugula salad.
- Storage: Keep leftovers covered in the fridge for 3 days. Reheat in the oven to maintain crispness.
- Make Ahead: Prep the squash and sauce 1 day in advance; assemble before baking.
FAQ
Can I use frozen squash?
→ Fresh is best (frozen squash becomes too watery).
How do I prevent a soggy gratin?
→ Salt the squash slices and let them drain in a colander for 10 minutes before layering.
Can I use all zucchini?
→ Absolutely! The yellow squash adds color, but flavor is similar.
Conclusion
This Zucchini and Yellow Squash Au Gratin proves that comfort food can be both elegant and wholesome. With its creamy texture, crispy topping, and vibrant colors, it’s a side dish that steals the spotlight without heavy ingredients. Perfect for dinner parties or meal prep, it’s a recipe you’ll return to all season long.
Ready to try it? Your taste buds (and guests) will thank you!
