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Gratin de Courgettes

Creamy Courgette Gratin is a comforting dish featuring zucchini in a rich cheese sauce, perfect for any gathering.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course, Side Dish
Cuisine: Comfort Food, French
Calories: 350
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 6 pieces courgettes Fresh and juicy, sliced into 1cm rounds.
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil For drizzling and sautéing.
  • 1 clove garlic Minced or grated.
  • 500 ml semi-skimmed or whole milk For the cheese sauce base.
  • 75 g butter Either salted or unsalted.
  • 75 g plain flour Essential for thickening the sauce.
  • 100 ml double cream Optional for extra indulgence.
  • 30 g parmesan cheese Grated.
  • 30 g mature cheddar Grated.
  • 50 g Gruyere cheese Grated.
  • 30 g breadcrumbs Regular or panko.
  • to taste flakey salt For seasoning.
  • to taste freshly ground black pepper For seasoning.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Drizzle olive oil in a large frying pan over medium heat. Add the sliced courgettes and sauté until lightly golden and softened, about 5-7 minutes.
  2. Add minced garlic to the courgettes and cook for another minute. Transfer the mixture to a 25cm diameter ovenproof dish, spreading it evenly.
Making the White Sauce
  1. Preheat the oven to 190°C (170°C fan, 375°F). In a small saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Add flour and stir for about a minute.
  2. Gradually pour in the milk, whisking continuously until the sauce thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon.
Combining the Ingredients
  1. Once thickened, stir in grated cheeses (save some for later) and optional double cream. Season with flakey salt and black pepper.
Assembling and Baking
  1. Pour the cheese sauce over the courgettes, ensuring they are evenly covered. Sprinkle reserved cheese and breadcrumbs on top.
  2. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, until the top is golden brown and the cheese sauce is bubbling.
Serving
  1. Let the gratin rest for a few minutes before serving to allow flavors to settle.

Notes

For a more robust flavor, try adding fresh herbs like thyme or basil to the courgettes while frying. You can substitute the cheeses based on preference, and feel free to prepare ahead of time by assembling and refrigerating before baking.