PICTURE-PERFECT SIDE
Instagram-ready ‘Hasselbacked’ zucchini is fresh and fun
Serves: 4
4 medium zucchini (about 8 oz/225 g each)
1 tbsp (15 mL) olive oil
1/4 tsp (1 mL) garlic powder
1/4 tsp (1 mL) kosher salt
1/8 tsp (0.5 mL) freshly ground black pepper
1/3 cup (80 mL) shaved Parmesan cheese (using a vegetable peeler), plus 1/4 cup (60 mL) grated Parmesan cheese
1. Position the rack in the middle of the oven and preheat to
425 F (220 C). Line a large, rimmed baking pan with foil.
2. Using a sharp knife, make crosswise, 1/2-inch (1-cm) thick slices in each of the zucchini, without going all the way through.
3. Leave about 1/4 of the vegetable intact at the bottom. If you wish, place a long-handled wooden spoon on either side of the vegetable to stop the knife from going too far.
4. Carefully transfer the zucchini to the baking sheet. Brush the outside and inside of each zucchini with the oil, then transfer to the oven, sliced side up. Roast, for about 20 minutes, until the zucchini soften and start to fan out.
5. While the zucchini is roasting, in a small bowl, combine the garlic, salt and pepper. Remove the zucchini from the oven.
6. Using a fork, hold each slice open as you sprinkle some of the garlic mixture, then place a piece or two of the shaved Parmesan into each slice, folding or breaking the cheese as needed so it fits nicely into the openings.
7. Sprinkle the top of the zucchini with the grated Parmesan cheese.
8. Preheat the broiler to low. Place the zucchini under the broiler for about 3 minutes, rotating the pan once or twice for even cooking until the cheese is melted and the tops are browned. Serve.