This Cheesy Zucchini Bake is a light, flavorful, and nutritious dish that’s perfect as a side or main course. Made with fresh zucchini, garlic, dill, and melted cheese, it’s easy to prepare and incredibly satisfying. Serve it warm with a fresh salad or as a delicious appetizer!
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Resting Time: 5-7 minutes
- Bake Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Servings: 4-6
Ingredients
- 2-3 zucchini, grated
- Salt, to taste
- 3 eggs
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Fresh dill, chopped
- Black pepper, to taste
- 120g (4 tbsp) flour
- 1 tomato, sliced
- 100g cheese, shredded (cheddar, mozzarella, or feta)
- Butter, for greasing
Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Zucchini
- Grate the zucchini and sprinkle with salt. Let it rest for 5-7 minutes to release excess moisture.
- Squeeze out the excess water using a cheesecloth or a clean kitchen towel.
Step 2: Mix Ingredients
- In a large bowl, mix together the grated zucchini, eggs, minced garlic, chopped dill, black pepper, and flour until well combined.
Step 3: Assemble & Bake
- Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Grease a baking dish with butter and spread the zucchini mixture evenly.
- Layer sliced tomatoes on top and sprinkle with shredded cheese.
- Bake for 30 minutes or until the cheese is melted and golden brown.
Step 4: Serve
- Let it cool for a few minutes, then slice and serve warm.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a fresh side salad for a balanced meal.
- Pair with roasted or grilled meat for a protein-rich dinner.
- Top with sour cream or Greek yogurt for extra creaminess.
- Enjoy with crusty bread for a hearty meal.
Cooking Tips
- For extra crispiness, bake uncovered for the last 5 minutes.
- Use a mix of cheeses like cheddar and Parmesan for a deeper flavor.
- For a gluten-free option, substitute flour with almond flour or cornstarch.
- If you prefer a firmer texture, add 1 tbsp of breadcrumbs to absorb extra moisture.
Nutritional Benefits
- Zucchini is rich in fiber & low in calories.
- Eggs provide protein & essential nutrients.
- Cheese adds calcium & healthy fats.
- Garlic & dill boost antioxidants & flavor.
Dietary Information
- Vegetarian-friendly
- Gluten-free option available
- Low-carb & keto-friendly with almond flour
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Protein: 10g
- Fat: 9g
- Fiber: 3g
Storage & Freezing
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Freeze portions for up to 1 month. Reheat in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for 10 minutes.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy, quick, and minimal ingredients.
- Deliciously cheesy with a soft zucchini texture.
- Customizable with different herbs & cheeses.
- Perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.
Conclusion
This Cheesy Zucchini Bake is a simple yet flavorful dish that brings out the best of fresh summer zucchini with savory cheese and herbs. Whether served as a side or main dish, it’s a delicious and healthy meal that’s easy to prepare!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Can I use frozen zucchini? Yes, but make sure to thaw and squeeze out excess water before using.
- What type of cheese works best? Cheddar, mozzarella, feta, or Parmesan all work great.
- How do I make it dairy-free? Use dairy-free cheese or omit cheese altogether.
- Can I add other vegetables? Yes! Try adding bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for extra flavor.
- How do I get a crispier top? Broil for 2-3 minutes at the end of baking.
- Can I use different herbs? Absolutely! Basil, parsley, or oregano work well.
- How do I prevent a watery bake? Make sure to squeeze out as much moisture as possible from the zucchini.
- Can I make this ahead of time? Yes, assemble the dish and store it in the fridge for up to 12 hours before baking.
- Can I make this in muffin cups? Yes! Bake in greased muffin tins for 20 minutes at 180°C (350°F).
- What protein can I add? You can mix in cooked shredded chicken or crumbled sausage for extra protein.