LOW CARB Zucchini Casserole

Start the casserole on a higher heat to dry it out a bit, and then add the last of the cheese on the top (otherwise it gets too brown or could even burn). This works with any kind of zucchini or green summer squash, including a combination of squashes.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb. zucchini (approximately 2 medium)
• 1 Tbsp olive oil
• 1/3 cup chopped onion (about 1/2 of a medium onion)
• 3 cloves garlic
• 3/4 lb. tomatoes (fresh or canned - about a one lb. can of whole tomatoes, drained)
• 1 tsp Italian herbs or oregano
• Salt and pepper
• 1 cup Italian cheese mixture (packaged, or a mix including, for example, Mozzarella, Parmesan, provolone)

Preparation:

Heat oven to 400° F.

1) Heat the oil in a medium saucepan. Sauté the onion in the oil for 2-3 minutes, then add the garlic and cook for another 30-60 seconds, until the garlic is fragrant. Cut tomatoes in 3-5 pieces, and add, along with the herbs and spices.

2) Cook over medium heat until the liquid is mostly gone (but not dry), stirring occasionally - it should end up being about a cup. This should take about 5-10 minutes.

3) Meanwhile, cut the zucchini into slices approximately ¼ inch thick. Take the largest slices and line the bottom of a 9 X 9" or 8 X 8" pan.

4) Spread about ¼ of the tomato mixture on the zucchini (don't even try to spread evenly; it won't work), followed by ¼ cup of the cheese.

5) Continue layering. It should come out to four layers, but if it only makes three, just try to divide things relatively evenly. Don't put the final layer of cheese on yet.

6) Bake for 20 minutes. Top with the rest of the cheese, and lower the temperature to 375. Bake for about 20 more minutes, or until cheese is golden brown.

Makes 9 smallish servings.

Nutritional Information: Each serving has 3 grams effective carbohydrate plus 1 gram fiber, 5 grams protein, and 78 calories.