If you have zucchinis on hand, this is the recipe you need to try! This Zucchini and Potato Savory Cake is a delightful Italian-inspired dish that is perfect for any meal of the day. Combining the fresh flavors of zucchini, the creaminess of fresh cheese, and the hearty goodness of potatoes, this cake is both comforting and delicious. It’s simple to make, using everyday ingredients, yet it delivers a taste that will make you want to savor every bite. Whether served as a main dish, a side, or even as a savory snack, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.
Ingredients:
- 2 zucchinis
- Salt and black pepper (to taste)
- Extra virgin olive oil (EVOO)
- 4 eggs
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 100 ml milk
- 60 ml extra virgin olive oil (EVOO)
- 120 g all-purpose flour (type 00)
- 11 g baking powder (for cakes or savory bakes)
- 1 medium potato, grated
- 1 small onion
- Grated Parmesan cheese (to taste)
- Fresh spreadable cheese (like cream cheese)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Zucchinis:
- Wash the zucchinis thoroughly and grate them using a coarse grater. Place the grated zucchini in a bowl and sprinkle with salt and black pepper to taste. Let it sit for a few minutes to allow the excess moisture to be drawn out.
- After a few minutes, squeeze out the liquid from the zucchini using a clean kitchen towel or paper towels, then set the grated zucchini aside.
- Prepare the Other Ingredients:
- Grate the medium potato and finely chop the small onion. Set both aside.
- In a large bowl, crack the eggs and season them with salt, black pepper, and the teaspoon of sugar. Whisk the eggs until they are well combined and slightly frothy.
- Combine the Ingredients:
- Add the milk and 60 ml of extra virgin olive oil to the whisked eggs, and continue whisking until everything is thoroughly mixed.
- Gradually add the flour and baking powder to the egg mixture, whisking continuously to avoid lumps. The result should be a smooth batter.
- Fold in the grated zucchini, grated potato, and chopped onion, mixing until all the ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Prepare for Baking:
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (360°F).
- Lightly grease a baking dish or line it with parchment paper.
- Pour the prepared batter into the baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Add the Cheese:
- Generously sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the top of the batter. This will create a deliciously crisp and golden crust as it bakes.
- Dot the top of the cake with small dollops of fresh spreadable cheese. This adds a creamy richness to the savory cake that complements the other flavors beautifully.
- Bake:
- Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the cake is golden brown on top and fully set in the middle. You can check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean.
- Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool slightly before slicing.
- Serve:
- Slice the Zucchini and Potato Savory Cake into squares or wedges, depending on your preference.
- Serve warm as a main dish, or pair it with a fresh salad or a side of roasted vegetables for a more substantial meal.
Cooking Tips:
- Grating the Vegetables: Grate the zucchini and potato just before using to ensure they stay fresh and don’t release too much water.
- Flour Substitute: If you prefer a different type of flour, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour or a gluten-free blend.
- Cheese Varieties: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses for the topping. Pecorino Romano, Gruyère, or even a sharp cheddar would work well in place of Parmesan.
- Storage: This savory cake can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat slices in the oven or microwave before serving.
Nutritional Benefits:
This Zucchini and Potato Savory Cake is a balanced dish that provides a good mix of nutrients. Zucchini is rich in vitamins A and C, as well as dietary fiber, which supports healthy digestion. Potatoes provide energy-boosting carbohydrates and are also a good source of potassium. The eggs contribute high-quality protein, essential for muscle repair and overall health. Parmesan cheese adds calcium and protein, while the extra virgin olive oil provides healthy fats that are beneficial for heart health. Together, these ingredients create a dish that is both nourishing and satisfying.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
You’ll love this recipe because it’s incredibly versatile and easy to make. The combination of zucchini, potatoes, and cheese results in a dish that is rich in flavor yet light enough to enjoy any time of the day. It’s perfect for breakfast, lunch, dinner, or even as a snack. The ingredients are simple, and the preparation is straightforward, making it a great choice for busy days when you still want to eat something homemade and delicious. Plus, the savory cake is packed with nutrients, so you can feel good about indulging in this tasty treat!
Dietary Information:
- Vegetarian: This recipe is vegetarian, making it suitable for those who do not consume meat.
- Nut-Free: The recipe is naturally nut-free, so it’s safe for those with nut allergies.
- Can Be Made Gluten-Free: To make this recipe gluten-free, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
- Low-Sugar: The recipe contains only a small amount of sugar, making it a low-sugar option that still tastes delicious.
Why This Recipe Works:
This recipe works because it brings together simple, fresh ingredients that complement each other beautifully. The zucchini and potato add moisture and texture, while the eggs and flour create a light, airy structure that holds everything together. The fresh spreadable cheese adds a creamy contrast to the crisp Parmesan crust, making each bite a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The use of extra virgin olive oil not only enhances the taste but also adds a healthy dose of monounsaturated fats, which are beneficial for heart health. This dish is the epitome of Italian home cooking—simple, wholesome, and utterly delicious.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, this Zucchini and Potato Savory Cake is a must-try recipe that combines the best of Italian flavors with the ease of modern cooking. It’s a versatile dish that can be enjoyed on its own or paired with other foods, making it a perfect choice for any meal. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, this recipe is sure to impress with its rich flavor, satisfying texture, and healthful ingredients. So next time you find yourself with zucchinis in the kitchen, don’t hesitate to give this recipe a try—you’ll be glad you did!