Provencal Zucchini Fans

Preheat oven to 400 degrees F. Wash the tomatoes, and cut each of them lengthwise into four slices. Wash the zucchini and trim off the stem end of each. Then, starting at the flower end, cut each zucchini lengthwise into 1/4-inch slices, leaving the slices attached at the stem end so they can be opened like a fan. Each zucchini should have four slits.

Arrange the zucchini side by side in a roasting pan or large gratin dish with enough space between so each one can be fanned out. Slide a slice of tomato into each slit and press firmly down on the zucchini to create a fan with alternating segments of zucchini and tomato.

Cut each garlic clove lengthwise into eight thin slices, and slide the slices into the fans alongside the tomato slices. Brush the entire surface of the fans with the oil and sprinkle the salt, pepper and herbes de Provence on top.

Bake at 400 degrees F for 30 minutes, until the vegetables are soft and the fans are nicely browned on top. Using a large spatula, transfer the fans to four plates, and serve immediately.