Vegan Cheesy Zucchini Gratin

First, slice, then bake! Vegan Cheesy Zucchini Gratin is creamy, comforting, and easy. Perfect for kids, families, and healthy dinners.

Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Servings: 4–6

Ingredients

• 4 medium zucchinis, sliced into rounds
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Vegan Cheese Sauce:

• 1 cup raw cashews, soaked 2 hours or boiled 15 minutes
• 1 cup plant milk
• 2 tbsp nutritional yeast
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp onion powder
• Salt to taste

For the Topping:

• ½ cup breadcrumbs
• 1 tbsp olive oil

Instructions

1. First, preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.
2. Next, prepare the zucchini: Toss zucchini slices with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Then, layer them evenly in the dish.
3. Meanwhile, make the cheese sauce: Blend cashews, plant milk, nutritional yeast, lemon juice, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt until smooth.
4. After that, pour the sauce over the zucchini, spreading evenly.
5. Then, mix breadcrumbs with olive oil and sprinkle over the top.
6. Bake for 30 minutes until bubbly and golden.
7. Finally, let rest for 5 minutes before serving so it sets nicely.

Tips & Tricks

• Additionally, slice zucchini thinly for even cooking.
• Next, salt zucchini lightly and pat dry if very watery.
• Then, add herbs like thyme or basil for extra flavor.
• Finally, broil for 2 minutes at the end for a crispier top.

Variations & Benefits

• Kid-Friendly Version: Use plain breadcrumbs, reduce garlic, and serve with pasta or rice.
• Protein Boost: Add cooked lentils or chickpeas between layers.
• Nut-Free Version: Replace cashews with sunflower seeds or silken tofu.
• Health Benefits: Zucchini is low in calories and rich in fiber and vitamins. As a result, this gratin supports digestion and healthy weight management.

Nutrition Facts (per serving, approximate)

• Calories: 220 kcal
• Protein: 7 g
• Fat: 12 g
• Carbohydrates: 20 g
• Fiber: 4 g
• Sugar: 5 g
• Sodium: 280 mg

Kid-Friendly Serving Ideas

• First, cut into small squares for easy eating.
• Next, serve with mild sides like mashed potatoes or rice.
• Finally, add a fun dip like vegan ranch or ketchup for kids.