Zucchini Tomato Chickpea Casserole

Name: Zucchini Tomato Chickpea Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 medium zucchinis, sliced; 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed; 1 onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon dried basil; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 2 tablespoons olive oil

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I absolutely love making this Zucchini Tomato Chickpea Casserole, especially during the summer months when zucchini is in abundance. The combination of fresh vegetables and hearty chickpeas creates a fulfilling meal that's both healthy and satisfying. I find that baking it in the oven allows all the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a dish that not only looks vibrant but also has a wonderful depth of taste. It's perfect for a family dinner or a cozy meal with friends, and I just can't get enough of it!

Created by

Ruby Lawson

Last updated on 2026-01-18T02:13:15.041Z

When I first created this casserole, I wanted to combine my favorite vegetables into a single dish that was both comforting and nutritious. The chickpeas add protein, while the zucchini and tomatoes create a lovely freshness that dances on the palate. A sprinkle of cheese on top gives it that perfect golden crust, which is simply irresistible!

One tip I discovered is to layer the zucchini and tomatoes carefully to ensure even cooking. This way, the vegetables don’t release too much water, and the casserole stays perfectly firm and flavorful. Plus, it’s a great way to use any leftover veggies you have in your fridge!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        A colorful medley of vegetables packed with nutrients
Easy to prepare and perfect for weeknight dinners
Can be made ahead and reheats beautifully for leftovers

      

Flavorful Ingredients

The combination of zucchini, cherry tomatoes, and chickpeas not only creates a colorful dish but also ensures a balance of textures and flavors. Zucchini, when cooked, becomes tender while maintaining a slight bite, contributing a subtle sweetness. Cherry tomatoes burst with juiciness as they roast, infusing their tangy essence throughout the casserole. Chickpeas add protein and fiber, making this dish not only nourishing but also filling, keeping hunger at bay for hours.

Using fresh herbs like oregano and basil elevates the flavor profile. While dried versions are convenient, fresh herbs can add a vibrant kick to the casserole. If you have fresh herbs on hand, consider using a tablespoon of chopped fresh basil and oregano, which will bring an aromatic quality that perfectly complements the dish. However, if you're short on time, the dried herbs still work beautifully, ensuring that this recipe remains accessible.

Baking Tips

Baking at the right temperature is crucial for achieving that perfect bubbling and golden cheese crust. At 375°F (190°C), the casserole cooks evenly, allowing the flavors to meld. If you find that the cheese isn't browning as desired after 25-30 minutes, you can switch your oven to broil for an additional 2-3 minutes, but watch it closely to avoid burning. This technique ensures a satisfyingly crispy top layer that contrasts nicely with the tender vegetables below.

If you're looking to prepare the casserole ahead of time, you can assemble it and refrigerate it overnight. Just be sure to cover the baking dish tightly with foil. When you're ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven. This will help it cook evenly. You can also freeze unbaked casseroles; just remember to label with the date and cooking instructions for your convenience.

Serving Suggestions

This Zucchini Tomato Chickpea Casserole pairs wonderfully with a fresh side salad or crusty bread for a complete meal. A light arugula salad with a simple lemon vinaigrette would complement the richness of the casserole perfectly, adding a peppery contrast that brightens the dish. Alternatively, serving it over a bed of quinoa or couscous can boost the nutritional profile while adding a satisfying grain element.

For a fun twist, consider adding additional toppings before serving. A sprinkle of toasted pine nuts or a drizzle of balsamic glaze adds both texture and an extra layer of flavor. If you're entertaining, portion the casserole into smaller ramekins, which make for delightful individual servings that guests will appreciate. The versatility of this dish means that you can get creative with your presentation to suit any occasion!

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients before you start cooking:

Ingredients

2 medium zucchinis, sliced
2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
1 onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
2 tablespoons olive oil

Make sure to have everything ready for seamless cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps to make the casserole:

Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Sauté Vegetables

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until the onion becomes translucent, about 5 minutes.

Combine Ingredients

Stir in the sliced zucchini and halved cherry tomatoes. Cook for another 5-7 minutes until slightly softened. Add the chickpeas, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper, and mix well.

Assemble Casserole

Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with shredded mozzarella cheese.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Serve

Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!

Your delicious casserole is now ready to be enjoyed!

Pro Tips

Try adding other vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for an extra nutritional boost. You can also use different cheese such as feta or parmesan for varied flavors.

Ingredient Substitutions

If zucchini isn’t in season, you can substitute it with other summer squash varieties or even eggplant, which adds a lovely richness to the dish. For those with dietary restrictions or preferences, using dairy-free cheese can maintain the creamy texture while providing a vegan option. Additionally, white beans can serve as an alternative to chickpeas, keeping the protein content and providing a similar creamy bite.

For a spicy kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the sautéed vegetables. This can enhance the overall flavor, making it exciting for those who enjoy a bit of heat. Remember, when making substitutions, think about how the new ingredient's texture and flavor will meld with the existing ingredients to ensure the success of the casserole.

Storage and Reheating

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When reheating, it’s best to use the oven at 350°F (175°C) to maintain texture, allowing the casserole to warm evenly without drying out. Cover it with foil to keep moisture in, and bake for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. Microwave reheating is quicker but may result in a soggier texture.

If you find you're dealing with too much leftover casserole, consider freezing portions. Portion them into individual containers, and these can be a lifesaver for busy days ahead. To reheat from frozen, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then follow the reheating instructions above, or bake straight from frozen for about 40-50 minutes, adding foil for the first part of the cook time to avoid over-browning.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen zucchini or tomatoes?

Yes, but the texture may differ slightly. Thaw and drain excess moisture before using.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I omit the cheese?

Absolutely! You can leave it out or replace it with a dairy-free alternative.

→ Is this casserole suitable for meal prep?

Yes, it’s perfect for meal prep! Just assemble and store in the fridge before baking.