Name: Cordon-bleu de courgette
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Fusion
Ingredients: 3 courgettes; 2 tranches de jambon; 1 boule de mozzarella; 30 g de parmesan râpé; 2 cuillères à soupe d’huile d’olive; 1 cuillère à soupe de flocons d’avoine; 2 cuillères à soupe de chapelure; Sel; Poivre

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is a fun and healthier way to enjoy the flavors of cordon bleu. It’s quick to prepare, uses just a few ingredients, and transforms zucchini into a hearty, cheesy dish with a crispy topping. Perfect as a light main course or as a side dish, it’s also easy to customize with different cheeses or fillings. Cordon-bleu de courgette

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

3 zucchinis
2 slices ham
1 ball of mozzarella
30 g grated parmesan
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon rolled oats
2 tablespoons breadcrumbs
Salt
Pepper

Directions

Preheat the oven to 180 °C (350 °F). Wash the zucchinis, trim the ends, and slice lengthwise into thick strips (about 8 slices). Discard rounded edges to keep flat slices.
Brush the zucchini slices with olive oil, arrange them on a baking sheet, and bake for 10 minutes.
Slice the mozzarella and cut the ham into strips. Layer ham and mozzarella on top of 4 zucchini slices. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
Cover each with another zucchini slice to form a “sandwich.”
In a small bowl, mix oats, parmesan, and breadcrumbs. Sprinkle this mixture over the zucchini sandwiches.
Bake for about 15 minutes, until golden and crisp on top, with melted cheese inside.
Serve hot as a main course with a salad, or as a side dish.

Servings and timing

Serves 4 people
Prep time: 19 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Total time: about 45 minutes

Variations

Replace mozzarella with emmental, comté, or morbier cheese.
Use turkey or chicken slices instead of ham for a leaner option.
Add a thin layer of mustard or pesto between zucchini slices for extra flavor.
Make it vegetarian by omitting the ham and adding grilled vegetables like peppers or mushrooms.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Reheat in the oven at 180 °C (350 °F) for 5–7 minutes to maintain crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as it makes the zucchini soggy.

FAQs

1. Can I prepare zucchini cordon bleu ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the zucchini “sandwiches” a few hours in advance and bake them just before serving.

2. Can I freeze this recipe?

It’s not ideal, as zucchini tends to release a lot of water when thawed, making the dish soggy.

3. How can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Simply omit the ham and add more cheese or extra vegetables for filling.

4. Can I use another type of cheese instead of mozzarella?

Yes, emmental, comté, or cheddar will work well.

5. How do I keep the zucchini from being watery?

Bake or grill the slices briefly before assembling to remove excess moisture.

6. Can I make it gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or replace them with crushed cornflakes.

7. What can I serve with zucchini cordon bleu?

It pairs well with a fresh green salad, roasted potatoes, or a simple tomato sauce.

8. Can I cook the zucchini in a pan instead of the oven?

Yes, but baking gives a more even, crispy finish while pan-cooking can make them softer.

9. Can I use yellow squash instead of zucchini?

Absolutely, it works just as well and adds a nice color variation.

10. Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Yes, the cheesy filling usually appeals to kids, especially if paired with a dipping sauce.

Conclusion

Zucchini cordon bleu is a deliciously light and inventive way to enjoy the flavors of the classic dish with a healthier twist. Crispy, cheesy, and satisfying, it makes a wonderful main or side dish for any occasion. Simple, quick, and adaptable, this recipe is sure to become a favorite for both family dinners and casual entertaining.