1. Preparation Time: 15 minutes
2. Cooking Time: 40 minutes
3. Total Time: 55 minutes

• 4 medium courgettes (zucchinis), sliced into thin rounds
• 200g (7 oz) cheddar cheese, grated
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 300ml (10.1 fl oz) milk
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Cooking oil, for greasing
• Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and grease a casserole dish with cooking oil.
2. Prepare the Courgettes: Slice the courgettes into thin rounds. If your courgettes are particularly watery, you can lightly salt them and let them sit for 10 minutes to release some moisture. Then, pat them dry with paper towels.
3. Make the Cheese Sauce: In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until softened and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes. Stir in the flour to create a roux, and cook for another 2 minutes, stirring continuously.
4. Add the Milk: Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring there are no lumps. Continue to cook and stir until the sauce thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Season and Add Cheese: Stir in the dried thyme, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Add 150g (5 oz) of grated cheddar cheese and stir until it’s melted and the sauce is smooth.
6. Layer the Casserole: Place half of the sliced courgettes in the greased casserole dish. Pour half of the cheese sauce over the courgettes. Repeat with another layer of courgettes and cheese sauce.
7. Bake: Sprinkle the remaining 50g (2 oz) of grated cheddar cheese on top of the casserole. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden brown, and the courgettes are tender.
8. Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, then serve your delicious Courgette and Cheese Casserole hot.

Nutrition Information (per serving – serves 4):

• Calories: 335 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 13g
• Protein: 15g
• Fat: 25g
• Saturated Fat: 15g
• Fibre: 2g
• Sugar: 7g
• Sodium: 424mg