This Cheese Zucchini Bread is a delicious, low-calorie recipe made without wheat flour or butter. It’s perfect for a healthy snack or as a savory side. Packed with zucchini, cheese, and a blend of gluten-free flours, this bread is flavorful, moist, and easy to prepare.
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Ingredients
- 120 g (1 cup) grated zucchini (do not squeeze out the liquid)
- 120 g (1 cup) cheese (Mozzarella or your favorite type), grated
- 120 g (½ cup) yogurt
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1 large egg
- Salt, to taste (consider the saltiness of the cheese)
- 100 g (¾ cup) cornmeal
- 50 g (⅓ cup) chickpea flour
- 50 g (½ cup) rice flour or ground oats
- Seasonings, to taste (e.g., garlic powder, finely chopped herbs, chili flakes, etc.)
Directions
Prepare the Batter:
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (355°F). Grease and line a loaf pan with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk the egg, yogurt, and baking soda until well combined.
- Stir in the grated zucchini and cheese. Mix gently to incorporate.
- Add the cornmeal, chickpea flour, and rice flour (or ground oats) to the wet mixture. Stir until the batter is smooth and well combined.
- Season with salt and your choice of seasonings, adjusting to taste.
Bake the Bread:
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, spreading it evenly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until the top is golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cool and Serve:
- Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Slice and serve as a snack or side dish.
5 Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a dollop of Greek yogurt or sour cream.
- Pair with a fresh salad for a light meal.
- Top with avocado slices and a sprinkle of chili flakes.
- Enjoy with a warm bowl of soup or stew.
- Toast lightly and spread with cream cheese or hummus.
Cooking Tips
- Use freshly grated zucchini for optimal moisture and texture.
- Adjust the seasonings to your preference; herbs like parsley or dill add great flavor.
- Ensure your baking soda is fresh for proper rising.
- For extra flavor, mix in chopped sun-dried tomatoes or olives.
- Let the bread cool completely before slicing to maintain its structure.
Nutritional Benefits
- Low in calories and free of wheat flour and butter.
- Zucchini provides fiber, vitamins, and moisture.
- Cornmeal and chickpea flour add protein and a unique flavor.
- Cheese contributes calcium and protein.
Dietary Information
- Gluten-free.
- Vegetarian-friendly.
Nutritional Facts (Per Slice)
- Calories: 120
- Protein: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fat: 5g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 1g
Storage
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
- Refrigerate for up to 5 days, reheating slices as needed.
- Freeze individual slices for up to 1 month; thaw at room temperature before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- A healthy, savory alternative to traditional bread.
- Easy to customize with your favorite herbs and seasonings.
- Perfect for gluten-free diets and low-calorie meal plans.
- Moist, cheesy, and full of flavor.
Conclusion
This Cheese Zucchini Bread is a versatile, wholesome recipe that’s perfect for anyone looking for a healthier bread option. With its simple ingredients and savory flavor, it’s ideal for snacks, light meals, or sharing with friends. Try it today and enjoy a guilt-free treat!
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, any cheese that melts well, like cheddar or Gouda, works great. - Can I skip the chickpea flour?
Replace it with more cornmeal or rice flour, but chickpea flour adds a unique flavor and texture. - Can I make this vegan?
Substitute the egg with a flax or chia egg and use plant-based cheese and yogurt. - What if I don’t have rice flour?
Ground oats or almond flour make excellent substitutes. - Can I freeze the bread?
Yes, freeze slices in an airtight container for up to 1 month. - How do I ensure the bread doesn’t turn out too salty?
Adjust the salt based on the saltiness of your cheese. - Can I add other vegetables?
Yes, grated carrots or finely chopped spinach work well. - What if my batter seems too dry?
Add a little more yogurt to loosen the batter. - Can I bake this in muffin tins instead of a loaf pan?
Absolutely! Adjust the baking time to 20-25 minutes. - What pairs well with this bread?
It’s great with soups, salads, or as a standalone snack with your favorite spread.