Zucchini Chickpea Tomato Bake

Name: Zucchini Chickpea Tomato Bake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 medium zucchinis, sliced; 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed; 1 can diced tomatoes; 1 onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon dried basil; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Baked Meals

I love making this Zucchini Chickpea Tomato Bake when I want a cozy yet healthy dinner that’s full of flavor. The combination of tender zucchini, hearty chickpeas, and rich tomatoes is not only satisfying but also incredibly nutritious. Plus, it’s easy to adapt with whatever spices or herbs I have on hand. Whether I’m hosting a dinner party or just enjoying a quiet evening at home, this dish always brings smiles to the table. It's a delightful way to enjoy seasonal produce and eat well!

Created by

Odette Fairbanks

Last updated on 2026-01-15T14:18:37.598Z

When I first experimented with this Zucchini Chickpea Tomato Bake, I was pleasantly surprised by how well the flavors melded together. The creamy chickpeas complement the lightly sautéed zucchini perfectly, and the tomato sauce brings it all to life with its vibrant color and rich taste. I added a sprinkle of herbs de Provence, which enhanced the dish’s aroma and depth. It’s a simple dish that feels gourmet.

Another great thing about this recipe is its adaptability. I often toss in different vegetables depending on what I have on hand, such as bell peppers or spinach. This flexibility means I can make it year-round, and it never gets boring. Plus, it’s a great way to use up those slightly wilting veggies – win-win!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Packed with nutrients from fresh vegetables and protein-rich chickpeas
Easily customizable with your favorite seasonings and vegetables
A one-pan dish that simplifies cleanup while delivering great taste
Perfect for meal prep, as it keeps well in the fridge

Elevate Your Vegetable Game

The zucchini is the star of this dish, boasting a mild flavor that absorbs the spices beautifully. When selecting zucchinis, choose ones that are firm and smooth without blemishes. Cutting them into uniform slices not only enhances cooking evenness but also ensures that they maintain their texture instead of becoming mushy during the baking process. You’ll know they’re perfect when they’re tender yet still hold their shape, creating a pleasant contrast to the creamy chickpeas.

Chickpeas add heartiness and a protein boost, making this dish satisfying. When using canned chickpeas, make sure to rinse them thoroughly to remove excess sodium and improve their texture. If you prefer, you can use cooked dried chickpeas for a fresh, earthy flavor; simply soak them overnight and boil until tender before adding them to the pan. This small adjustment can enhance the dish's depth while keeping it healthy.

Baking for Maximum Flavor

Baking this dish after sautéing helps meld the flavors together. It creates a delightful caramelization on the top layer of zucchini and chickpeas, adding a slight crunch while keeping the inside moist. I recommend using a shallow baking dish for better heat circulation; this enables the dish to bubble up beautifully and develop those golden edges. Keep an eye on it during the last few minutes of baking to achieve that ideal golden-brown finish without overcooking.

If you love a bit of spice, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or smoked paprika when mixing in the tomatoes. The subtle heat enhances the overall flavor profile but won’t overpower the dish. Always taste the mixture before transferring to the oven to adjust the seasoning according to your palate—this extra step ensures that each bite bursts with flavor.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to create a delicious Zucchini Chickpea Tomato Bake.

Ingredients

2 medium zucchinis, sliced
1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
1 can diced tomatoes
1 onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Mix and match these ingredients to suit your taste, and enjoy!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your Zucchini Chickpea Tomato Bake.

Prepare the Vegetables

In a large pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until the onion becomes translucent.

Add Zucchini and Chickpeas

Stir in the sliced zucchini and chickpeas, cooking for about 5 minutes until the zucchini begins to soften.

Incorporate Tomatoes and Seasoning

Pour in the canned diced tomatoes, and add oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together and let it simmer for another 10-15 minutes.

Bake

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and bake for 20 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.

Serve

Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy your delicious Zucchini Chickpea Tomato Bake warm!

Don’t forget to share with your loved ones!

Pro Tips

Feel free to substitute any vegetables you have on hand, and try adding cheese for an extra layer of flavor.

Make-Ahead and Storing

This Zucchini Chickpea Tomato Bake is a fantastic candidate for meal prep. You can prepare the entire dish a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just be sure to cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to keep it fresh. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes, for a warm and satisfying meal.

If you're planning to freeze it, let the bake cool completely before wrapping it in freezer-safe containers. It can be stored for up to three months. For best results, I recommend only baking it halfway before freezing; allow it to finish baking right when you’re ready to enjoy it. This way, you’ll experience that fresh-from-the-oven taste without losing any texture.

Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs beautifully with a side of crusty whole-grain bread or a light salad for a more balanced meal. The bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce, while a fresh salad adds a crisp contrast to the warm bake. For heartier servings, you can also serve it over quinoa or rice, which will enhance the nutritional value and provide a fulfilling base.

For a touch of brightness, drizzle with a bit of balsamic glaze or lemon juice before serving. The acidity cuts through the richness, providing a refreshing complement. Adding a sprinkle of feta cheese just before serving can elevate the flavor profile, bringing in a creamy, salty element that works wonderfully with the earthiness of the chickpeas and zucchini.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes, this recipe is naturally vegan as it doesn't include any animal products.

→ How can I store leftovers?

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

→ Can I freeze the Zucchini Chickpea Tomato Bake?

Absolutely! Just cool it completely, then freeze in a container or freezer bag for up to 2 months.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

This bake pairs beautifully with a side salad or crusty bread for a complete meal.