This Baked Zucchini Casserole is a comforting and nutritious dish that’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings. Packed with layers of tender zucchini, flavorful vegetables, and topped with a cheesy crust, this dish is a great way to enjoy a variety of veggies in one meal. The combination of eggs, milk, and olive oil gives it a creamy texture, while the garlic and dill add a burst of flavor. It’s a wholesome meal that will leave everyone asking for seconds!
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Preparation Time:
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cooking Time: 55 minutes
- Total Time: 80 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Calories: 350 kcal per serving
Ingredients:
- 4 zucchinis, sliced
- 2 onions, chopped
- 1 carrot, sliced
- 4 peppers, sliced
- 3 eggs
- 1 ¼ cups (300 ml) milk
- 2 tbsp (30 ml) olive oil
- 5 tbsp (50 g) flour
- 2 tsp (10 g) baking powder
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 tbsp dill, chopped
- 1 ¼ cups (150 g) cheese, grated
- 1 tbsp mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp yogurt
- Juice of ½ lemon
- 1 green onion, chopped
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Sunflower oil for cooking
Directions:
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Prepare the Vegetables:
- Slice the zucchinis and sprinkle with salt. Let them sit for 10 minutes, then squeeze out the excess water.
- Chop the onions and cook them in sunflower oil over medium heat until soft.
- Add the sliced carrot, cover, and cook for 5 minutes.
- Add the sliced peppers, salt, and black pepper. Cover and cook for another 5-7 minutes.
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Prepare the Egg Mixture:
- In a bowl, mix the eggs, milk, olive oil, flour, and baking powder. Add minced garlic and dill, and mix well.
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Assemble and Bake:
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Transfer the cooked vegetables to a baking dish. Pour the egg mixture over the vegetables and spread it out.
- Sprinkle grated cheese over the top.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown.
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Prepare the Sauce and Serve:
- Mix mayonnaise, yogurt, lemon juice, and chopped green onion.
- Serve the baked zucchini with the sauce.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve as a main dish with a side of fresh salad or crusty bread.
- Pair with a glass of white wine for a complete meal.
- It can also be a great side dish for grilled meats or fish.
Cooking Tips:
- Make sure to squeeze out the water from the zucchini slices to avoid a watery casserole.
- Feel free to add more herbs like parsley or basil for extra flavor.
- You can substitute the cheese with a plant-based alternative for a dairy-free version.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Zucchini is low in calories and high in fiber, making it a healthy choice.
- Eggs and cheese provide a good source of protein and calcium.
- Carrots and peppers add vitamins A and C, boosting your immune system.
Dietary Information:
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-Free (if using gluten-free flour)
- Can be made dairy-free by using dairy-free cheese and yogurt
Nutritional Facts (per serving):
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Protein: 15g
- Fat: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 5g
Storage:
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in the oven at 180°C (350°F) until warmed through.
- This dish can also be frozen for up to 1 month.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- It’s a wholesome, veggie-packed meal that’s both satisfying and delicious.
- The creamy texture combined with the cheesy crust makes it a comfort food favorite.
- It’s easy to make and perfect for meal prep.
- Versatile and customizable, you can adjust the ingredients to your liking.
Conclusion:
This Baked Zucchini Casserole is more than just a healthy meal; it’s a delicious way to enjoy a variety of vegetables with a cheesy, comforting twist. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a dinner party, this dish is sure to impress with its rich flavors and satisfying texture. Give it a try and see why this recipe will become a staple in your kitchen. Enjoy every bite, and don’t forget to share this recipe with friends and loved ones!
Frequently Asked Questions:
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Can I use different vegetables in this recipe? Yes, you can substitute or add vegetables like spinach, tomatoes, or mushrooms.
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Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the casserole ahead and bake it when you’re ready to serve.
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Is it necessary to use sunflower oil, or can I use another type of oil? You can use olive oil, vegetable oil, or any cooking oil you prefer.
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Can I make this casserole without eggs? You can use egg substitutes like flax eggs or a chickpea flour batter for a vegan version.
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How do I make this dish gluten-free? Simply replace the regular flour with gluten-free flour.
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What’s the best way to reheat this casserole? Reheat it in the oven at 180°C (350°F) until warmed through for the best texture.
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Can I freeze the baked casserole? Yes, you can freeze it for up to 1 month. Thaw and reheat before serving.
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What kind of cheese works best in this recipe? Mozzarella, cheddar, or a mix of cheeses work well. Feel free to experiment with your favorite cheese.
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How can I reduce the calorie content of this dish? Use low-fat cheese and yogurt, and reduce the amount of oil used.
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Can I serve this casserole cold? While it’s best served warm, you can also enjoy it cold as a part of a picnic or lunch.