Cheesy Baked Zucchini with Herbs (Weight Watchers Friendly)

This delightful and savory recipe for Cheesy Baked Zucchini with Herbs offers a healthy, flavor-packed dish that’s not only satisfying but also Weight Watchers (WW) friendly. The combination of fresh zucchini, a blend of flavorful herbs, and a light, cheesy topping creates a mouthwatering meal that’s perfect as a side dish or a light main course. By using reduced-fat cheese and healthy cooking methods, this recipe offers a way to enjoy the comfort of cheese while keeping the points low.

Whether you’re following a specific Weight Watchers program or simply looking to maintain a balanced, nutritious diet, this recipe is ideal. With its wholesome ingredients, you can feel good about serving this dish to your family or guests. Let’s dive into the full recipe, nutritional benefits, and how to make this cheesy, herbed zucchini dish!

Ingredients (Weight Watchers Points Information Included)

  • 4 medium zucchinis (approx. 8 cups of sliced zucchini)
  • 1 cup reduced-fat shredded mozzarella cheese (4 WW points per serving)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (4 WW points per tablespoon)
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (0 WW points)
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano (0 WW points)
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil (0 WW points)
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (0 WW points)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste (0 WW points)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (optional for garnish, 0 WW points)
  • 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese (2 WW points per tablespoon, optional for added flavor)

WW Points Breakdown (for 1 serving):

  • Total WW Points per Serving: 3 SmartPoints (based on the recipe yielding 4 servings)
  • Points per Zucchini Serving (without optional Parmesan): 3 SmartPoints

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:

Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). The right temperature ensures that the zucchini will cook through evenly and that the cheese will melt to a golden, bubbly perfection. Preheating the oven beforehand also helps avoid unnecessary delays, making this recipe even more convenient for a weeknight dinner.

2. Prepare the Zucchini:

Next, wash the zucchinis thoroughly under cold running water. Dry them off with a clean kitchen towel or paper towel. Cut off both ends of each zucchini and slice them into rounds about 1/4-inch thick. The thickness of the slices is crucial for even cooking and ensures a tender texture.

To reduce excess water that zucchini sometimes releases during baking, you can optionally lay the zucchini slices on paper towels for 10 minutes before proceeding. This step helps the zucchini retain its texture and prevents the final dish from becoming too watery.

3. Coat the Zucchini with Olive Oil and Seasoning:

In a large mixing bowl, add the zucchini slices and drizzle them with 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Olive oil adds a mild richness and ensures the zucchini roasts nicely in the oven without drying out. Toss the zucchini slices gently to coat them evenly in the oil. Once coated, add the garlic powder, dried oregano, basil, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix everything thoroughly to make sure the zucchini slices are evenly seasoned. You can also choose to add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little extra heat if you enjoy spicy food.

The combination of Italian herbs, along with the garlic powder, complements the zucchini’s mild flavor beautifully. These herbs bring out the best in the zucchini, while keeping the dish flavorful without adding unnecessary calories or points.

4. Arrange the Zucchini on a Baking Sheet:

Take a large baking sheet or oven-safe dish and arrange the seasoned zucchini slices in a single layer. Be sure that the zucchini is spread out evenly, allowing air to circulate around each slice. This ensures that each zucchini piece is perfectly roasted and caramelized on the edges. If the zucchini slices are stacked on top of each other, they may steam rather than roast, so keep them in a single layer to achieve the ideal crisp-tender texture.

5. Add the Cheese:

Once the zucchini is laid out on the baking sheet, sprinkle 1 cup of reduced-fat shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the zucchini slices. Reduced-fat mozzarella gives you that cheesy, creamy texture without the excess calories and WW points. If you’re using grated Parmesan cheese for added flavor, sprinkle it on top of the mozzarella layer. A tablespoon of Parmesan adds a delightful sharpness and enhances the savory profile of the dish.

The cheese will melt beautifully as the zucchini bakes, forming a gooey, golden crust that brings comfort to every bite.

6. Bake the Zucchini:

Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the zucchini for approximately 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese has melted, and the zucchini is tender and lightly browned at the edges. Keep an eye on the dish toward the end of the cooking time to avoid overbaking. If you prefer a crispier top, broil the dish for an additional 1-2 minutes, watching closely to avoid burning.

The zucchini should be soft and tender while still holding its shape. The cheese should be bubbly and golden brown, giving the dish an irresistible look and aroma.

7. Garnish and Serve:

Once baked to perfection, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Before serving, sprinkle the zucchini with fresh chopped parsley for a touch of color and freshness. This is entirely optional but adds an appealing contrast to the cheesy, golden slices.

Serve the Cheesy Baked Zucchini with Herbs as a side dish with your favorite lean protein, such as grilled chicken, fish, or tofu. It also makes an excellent addition to a Mediterranean-inspired meal. Pair it with a side of quinoa or brown rice for a well-rounded, healthy dinner.

Useful Tips for Making the Best Cheesy Baked Zucchini:

  • Zucchini Variations: While zucchini is the star of this dish, you can also experiment with yellow squash or a mix of both. The flavors will still be complementary, and it’s a great way to switch things up if you have a garden full of squash.
  • Maximizing Flavor: To elevate the flavor further, you can add a pinch of smoked paprika or a sprinkle of Italian seasoning to the zucchini slices before baking. For extra cheesy goodness, you can add more mozzarella or even try a blend of your favorite low-fat cheeses.
  • Make Ahead: This dish can easily be made ahead of time. Prepare the zucchini and assemble the dish up to a day before baking. Simply cover it and refrigerate it until you’re ready to pop it in the oven for a quick bake.
  • Air Fryer Option: If you have an air fryer, you can make this dish even faster! Simply place the seasoned zucchini slices in the air fryer basket and cook at 375°F for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the zucchini is tender.
  • Extra Crispy Cheese: For an extra crispy cheesy top, sprinkle a small amount of breadcrumbs (whole wheat or gluten-free if needed) on top of the cheese before baking. This gives the dish a crunchy topping and adds a delightful texture contrast.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):

  • Calories: 130 kcal per serving (without optional Parmesan)
  • Fat: 9 grams (from olive oil and cheese)
  • Saturated Fat: 3 grams (from reduced-fat mozzarella)
  • Carbohydrates: 8 grams
  • Fiber: 2 grams
  • Sugar: 4 grams
  • Protein: 8 grams
  • Sodium: 210 mg (without Parmesan)
  • Cholesterol: 15 mg

This dish is a low-calorie, nutrient-packed meal that fits well within any Weight Watchers program. With only 3 WW SmartPoints per serving, you can enjoy a comforting, cheesy dish without feeling guilty about it. The zucchini provides fiber and antioxidants, while the reduced-fat cheese and olive oil offer satisfying flavors without excessive calories.

Why This Recipe is Perfect for Weight Watchers:

This Cheesy Baked Zucchini with Herbs recipe is an excellent choice for Weight Watchers participants due to its balanced use of wholesome ingredients. Zucchini is low in calories, high in fiber, and packed with nutrients, making it an ideal vegetable for those looking to lose weight or maintain a healthy lifestyle. By using reduced-fat cheese and minimal olive oil, we ensure the dish is satisfying yet low in points.

The versatility of this recipe also makes it an easy addition to your meal planning, whether you’re following the Green, Blue, or Purple WW plan. Whether served as a side or a main dish, it offers a filling and tasty option that won’t break the bank in terms of points.

Conclusion:

This Cheesy Baked Zucchini with Herbs is more than just a healthy dish; it’s a flavorful and indulgent way to enjoy a cheesy, savory meal while keeping things light. The key to this recipe is the smart use of WW-friendly ingredients, which makes it a great fit for anyone trying to eat healthier while still satisfying their cheese cravings. Whether you’re looking for a new side dish, a light dinner option, or a recipe to share with family and friends, this cheesy zucchini will not disappoint.

With minimal points, easy prep, and a host of flavors, this dish is bound to become a go-to in your weight-loss-friendly recipe collection. Enjoy this delicious, oven-baked treat while staying on track with your goals!