Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned? A1: Yes, three ripe diced tomatoes work well, but the dish may need a splash of water or broth since canned tomatoes provide more liquid. Q2: Is this recipe dairy-free? A2: You can omit the cheese or use a plant-based shredded cheese alternative, though the creamy topping will change. Q3: How do I reduce the carbs further? A3: Use only half an onion or omit it, and ensure the canned tomatoes have no added sugar. The net carbs per serving will drop to around 3g.

Miniketo

Keto Side Dishes

Zucchini Delight

Name: Zucchini Delight
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: Keto
Ingredients: zucchini, sliced; onion, chopped; (14.5 ounce) can peeled and diced tomatoes; /2 cup shredded Cheddar cheese; salt and pepper to taste

When I'm looking for a simple yet satisfying keto side dish, this zucchini and tomato casserole is my go-to. It's a breeze to prepare with ingredients you likely have on hand, and the melted cheddar on top makes it irresistible. Best of all, it's low in carbs but high in flavor.

15 min Prep time 20 min Cook time 35 min Total time 4 Servings 180 Calories

Ingredients

zucchini, sliced
onion, chopped
(14.5 ounce) can peeled and diced tomatoes
/2 cup shredded Cheddar cheese
salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Step 1

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Slice the zucchini into even rounds and chop the onion into small pieces. In a glass baking dish, combine the sliced zucchini and onion. Pour the entire can of diced tomatoes, juice and all, over the vegetables. Season generously with salt and pepper, and give it a gentle stir to distribute the seasonings. Then, evenly sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top. Cover the dish with its lid or tent with foil. Place it in the preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes, until the zucchini is fork-tender. I sometimes remove the lid for the last 2 minutes to get a slightly bubbly cheese top. Serve this comforting bake hot, and watch it disappear from the table. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights and requires minimal cleanup. Feel free to add a pinch of garlic powder or dried herbs for extra flavor.

Chef's Tip

For a crispier cheese topping, I remove the lid during the last 5 minutes of baking and switch to broil for a minute. Just watch it closely so it doesn't burn. Also, patting the zucchini dry after slicing reduces excess moisture in the dish.

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven, though the zucchini may soften further. For best texture, I reheat in a skillet over medium heat.

Variation Tips

Add crumbled bacon or cooked ground sausage for a heartier dish. Swap cheddar with mozzarella for a milder, stretchier cheese pull. Serve alongside grilled chicken or steak, or mix in some chopped spinach for extra greens.

Frequently Asked Questions

Nutrition

Calories	180 kcal \| Protein: 8g \| Fat: 14g \| Net Carbs: 5g