This Savory Zucchini and Oatmeal Bake is a healthy and delicious dish combining the fiber of oats, the freshness of zucchini, and the richness of cheese. Perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, this bake is versatile and satisfying.
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients:
- Zucchini: 2 medium-sized, grated
- Oatmeal: 1 ½ cups (150g), quick or rolled oats
- Eggs: 3 large
- Milk: 1 cup (240ml), whole or plant-based
- Cheese: 1 cup (100g), shredded (cheddar, mozzarella, or your favorite)
- Onion: 1 small, finely chopped
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
- Salt: To taste
- Pepper: To taste
- Paprika: ½ teaspoon
- Parsley or Dill: 2 tablespoons, finely chopped (optional)
- Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons (for greasing)
- Baking Powder: 1 teaspoon
Directions:
- Prepare the Zucchini:
- Grate the zucchini and place it in a bowl. Sprinkle with a pinch of salt, let it sit for 10 minutes, and squeeze out excess water.
- Mix the Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the oatmeal, eggs, milk, salt, pepper, paprika, onion, garlic, and parsley or dill. Mix well.
- Add the grated zucchini and shredded cheese to the bowl. Stir until well combined.
- Add the baking powder and give it one final mix.
- Prepare the Baking Dish:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Grease a medium-sized baking dish with olive oil or line it with parchment paper.
- Bake:
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the bake is set.
- Serve:
- Let the bake cool for 5 minutes before slicing. Serve warm with your favorite sides.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt.
- Pair with a simple green salad for a balanced meal.
- Enjoy with a side of roasted vegetables.
- Add a drizzle of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Serve alongside scrambled eggs or grilled chicken for a protein-packed meal.
Cooking Tips:
- Grate the zucchini finely to ensure even texture and faster cooking.
- If the batter seems too thick, add a little more milk to achieve the right consistency.
- Use a non-stick baking dish to avoid sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Substitute the cheese with a plant-based option to make it dairy-free.
- For extra flavor, sprinkle Parmesan cheese or breadcrumbs on top before baking.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Zucchini: Low in calories, high in water content, and rich in vitamins C and K.
- Oatmeal: Excellent source of dietary fiber and slow-releasing energy.
- Eggs: Provide high-quality protein and essential vitamins like B12.
- Cheese: Adds calcium and protein for bone health and muscle function.
Dietary Information:
- Vegetarian-friendly.
- Can be made gluten-free with certified gluten-free oats.
- Can be made dairy-free with plant-based milk and cheese.
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving):
- Calories: 250
- Protein: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fat: 12g
- Fiber: 4g
Storage:
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
- Freezer: Freeze individual portions for up to 1 month. Thaw and reheat before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Simple and quick to prepare with pantry staples.
- A healthy and balanced meal option for any time of the day.
- Versatile and customizable with additional vegetables or spices.
- Perfect for meal prep and storing for busy weekdays.
- Packed with fiber, protein, and vitamins for a nutritious boost.
Conclusion: This Savory Zucchini and Oatmeal Bake is a wholesome and delicious dish that’s easy to make and enjoy. The combination of hearty oatmeal, fresh zucchini, and creamy cheese ensures it will be a crowd-pleaser. Whether served fresh or reheated, this bake is an excellent addition to any menu.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use another vegetable instead of zucchini? Yes, grated carrots, spinach, or broccoli work well as substitutes.
- Can I make this bake vegan? Replace eggs with flax or chia eggs and use plant-based milk and cheese.
- What kind of oats should I use? Quick oats or rolled oats are ideal for this recipe. Avoid steel-cut oats as they won’t cook properly.
- How do I store leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 1 month.
- Can I prepare the batter ahead of time? Yes, mix the batter and refrigerate overnight. Bake it fresh the next day.
- What cheese works best? Cheddar, mozzarella, or Parmesan are excellent choices for this recipe.
- Can I make this bake gluten-free? Use certified gluten-free oats and flour alternatives.
- What can I serve with this bake? It pairs well with sour cream, salad, or roasted vegetables.
- Is this dish kid-friendly? Yes, the cheesy flavor and soft texture make it appealing to kids.
- How do I reheat the bake? Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes or microwave for 1-2 minutes.