Zucchini with Bechamel Sauce Recipe

Zucchini with bechamel sauce is a delicious and nutritious dish, perfect for a main course. It's easy to prepare and can be served with a fresh green salad on the side.

Time:

• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 40 minutes
• Total Time: 60 minutes

Serves: 5 people

Ingredients:

For the filling:

• 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 500g ground beef
• 1 onion (chopped)
• 1 red bell pepper (sliced)
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• A pinch of ground cinnamon (optional)

For the Bechamel Sauce:

• 4 cups milk
• 6 tablespoons flour
• ½ cup butter
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper

Other Ingredients:

• 7 medium zucchinis (sliced lengthwise)
• ¼ cup vegetable oil
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

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Instructions:

1. Prepare the Zucchini:

   • Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
   • Place the zucchini slices in a baking dish, and brush them with oil on both sides.
   • Bake the zucchini in the oven for 10-15 minutes, then flip them over and bake for another 10 minutes until tender.

2. Prepare the Filling:

   • Heat the vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat.
   • Add the ground beef, chopped onion, and sliced red bell pepper.
   • Season with salt, black pepper, and cinnamon (optional), and cook for about 15 minutes until the beef is fully cooked.

3. Prepare the Bechamel Sauce:

   • Melt the butter in a pot over medium heat.
   • Add the flour and stir for about 5 minutes to avoid lumps.
   • Gradually add the milk while continuously stirring.
   • Season with salt and black pepper, and cook the mixture for 7-10 minutes until the sauce thickens.

4. Assemble in a Baking Dish:

   • Spread a layer of bechamel sauce at the bottom of a Pyrex or baking dish.
   • Layer the zucchini slices over the sauce, then add the cooked meat mixture evenly on top.
   • Spread another layer of bechamel sauce over the meat, then sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top.

5. Bake in the Oven:

   • Bake the dish in the oven for 45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown.

6. Serve:

   • Remove the dish from the oven and serve hot. Enjoy your zucchini with bechamel sauce!

Notes:

• You can add your favorite herbs, like thyme or basil, to the filling for extra flavor.
• If you prefer the zucchini to be softer, you can bake them a little longer.

Bon appétit!