Cheesy Baked Zucchini with Bell Peppers

This Cheesy Baked Zucchini with Bell Peppers is a delicious and vibrant dish that’s perfect as a side or a light main course. The tender zucchini, sweet bell peppers, and rich, melty cheese create a delightful combination that’s sure to please. Enjoy this flavorful and colorful addition to your table!

Ingredients:

  • 2 zucchinis
  • 1/2 onion
  • 1/2 yellow bell pepper
  • 1/2 red bell pepper
  • 1 egg
  • 50-70 grams feta cheese, crumbled
  • 60 grams Parmesan cheese, grated
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • Olive oil
  • Sunflower oil

Directions:

1. Prepare the Zucchini:

  • Grate the zucchinis and place them in a mixing bowl. Sprinkle with a little salt and mix well. Let the zucchini sit for 15 minutes to draw out moisture.
  • After resting, squeeze out the excess water from the zucchini to ensure your dish isn’t watery.

2. Preheat the Oven:

  • Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).

3. Prepare the Vegetable Mixture:

  • Finely chop the onion and bell peppers.
  • In a skillet, heat a little sunflower oil over medium heat. Add the chopped vegetables and sauté for about 10 minutes until they are softened. Season with salt and black pepper.

4. Mix the Zucchini Mixture:

  • To the drained zucchini, add one beaten egg, a pinch of salt, and some black pepper. Mix well to combine.

5. Bake the Zucchini:

  • Spread the zucchini mixture in a lightly oiled baking dish. Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes.

6. Add Cheese and Egg:

  • Remove the baking dish from the oven. Sprinkle the sautéed vegetables evenly over the baked zucchini.
  • In a small bowl, mix the crumbled feta and another beaten egg. Spread this mixture over the vegetables.
  • Finally, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top.

7. Final Baking:

  • Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and slightly golden.

8. Serving:

  • Serve warm directly from the oven. This dish makes a great side or a light main course and is especially good when paired with a fresh salad.

This baked zucchini recipe is not only delicious but also adds a vibrant splash of color to your table. Enjoy the blend of tender zucchini, sweet bell peppers, and rich, melty cheese in every bite!

Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: Approximately 200 kcal per serving

Serving Suggestions:

  • Pair this dish with a crisp green salad and a tangy vinaigrette for a complete meal.
  • Serve alongside grilled chicken or fish for a more substantial dinner.
  • Enjoy as a standalone vegetarian main course with a side of crusty bread.

Cooking Tips:

  • Be sure to squeeze out as much water from the grated zucchini as possible to prevent the dish from becoming too watery.
  • Feel free to add other herbs and spices like oregano or thyme for extra flavor.
  • Use a mix of different colored bell peppers for a more vibrant presentation.

Nutritional Benefits:

  • Zucchini is low in calories and high in essential nutrients like vitamin C, vitamin A, and potassium.
  • Bell peppers are rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, contributing to overall health.
  • Feta and Parmesan cheeses add protein and calcium to the dish.

Dietary Information:

  • This recipe is vegetarian-friendly.
  • For a gluten-free option, ensure all additional ingredients used are certified gluten-free.
  • Low in carbohydrates, making it suitable for low-carb diets.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

  • It’s quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights.
  • The combination of fresh vegetables and cheeses creates a satisfying and flavorful dish.
  • Versatile and can be served in various ways to suit your preferences.

Conclusion:

This Cheesy Baked Zucchini with Bell Peppers is a delicious and healthy addition to your meal repertoire. With its simple preparation and versatile serving options, it is sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy the balance of flavors and the health benefits packed into each bite!