This Savory Zucchini Cheddar Bread is a delicious and hearty loaf, perfect for any time of the day. The combination of fresh zucchini, sharp Cheddar cheese, and fragrant thyme creates a flavorful bread that’s sure to impress.
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Ingredients
- 325 grams zucchini (about 2 medium zucchinis)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 3 large eggs
- ⅓ cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons water
- 1 sprig fresh thyme (stems removed and leaves minced)
- 80 grams Cheddar cheese (cut into ⅓-inch cubes)
Directions
Prepare the Pan:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a standard 9″x5″ loaf pan with a thin layer of olive oil and dust with flour to coat evenly. Alternatively, line the inside of the pan with parchment paper.
Prepare the Zucchini: 2. Remove the ends of the zucchini and shred it into a colander using the large side of a box grater. Add the salt and toss to distribute evenly. Allow the excess water to drain from the zucchini for at least 15 minutes.
Mix Dry Ingredients: 3. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and paprika.
Mix Wet Ingredients: 4. In another bowl, whisk the eggs, olive oil, and water together until the mixture is light and frothy. Add the drained zucchini and thyme to the egg mixture and stir to combine.
Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: 5. Add the egg mixture to the flour mixture. Use a spatula to fold everything together until just combined. Be careful not to over-mix the batter to keep the bread tender.
Assemble the Bread: 6. Spread half the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Add half the Cheddar cheese cubes evenly over the batter. Spread the remaining batter on top and smooth the surface. Stick the remaining cheese cubes on top.
Bake: 7. Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cool: 8. When the zucchini bread is done, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool for 10 minutes in the pan. Then transfer the bread to a wire rack and let it cool completely.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve slices warm with a pat of butter.
- Pair with a bowl of soup or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
- Enjoy as a savory snack on its own.
Cooking Tips
- Ensure the zucchini is well-drained to prevent excess moisture in the bread.
- Use freshly grated Cheddar for the best flavor and texture.
- Do not over-mix the batter to keep the bread light and tender.
Nutritional Benefits
- Zucchini: Low in calories and high in vitamins A and C.
- Cheddar Cheese: Provides calcium and protein.
- Eggs: Offer high-quality protein and essential nutrients.
Dietary Information
- Vegetarian: Yes
- Gluten-Free: No (use gluten-free flour to make it gluten-free)
- Dairy-Free: No
Storage Tips
- Store any leftover bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- This bread can also be frozen. Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- The savory combination of zucchini, Cheddar cheese, and thyme is both delicious and unique.
- It’s a great way to use up fresh zucchini.
- Perfect for meal prep, snacks, or pairing with meals.
Conclusion
Enjoy this savory zucchini Cheddar bread as a flavorful addition to any meal. It’s easy to make, packed with delicious ingredients, and sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Happy baking!