This savory zucchini snack loaf is a delicious, gluten-free snack cake that combines cheese, garlic, and vegetables for a nutritious treat. With a blend of cornmeal, chickpea flour, and rice flour, this recipe is simple to prepare and perfect for breakfast or as a snack.
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
Ingredients
- Grated zucchini: 120 g (do not squeeze out the liquid)
- Cheese (Mozzarella or any other type): 120 g (1 cup)
- Yogurt: 120 g (1/2 cup)
- Baking soda: 1 teaspoon
- Egg: 1 large
- Salt: To taste (consider the saltiness of your cheese)
- Cornmeal: 100 g (3/4 cup)
- Chickpea flour: 50 g (1/3 cup)
- Rice flour or ground oats: 50 g (1/2 cup)
- Seasonings: To taste (e.g., garlic, finely chopped herbs, etc.)
Directions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 360°F (180°C). Grease a 10 x 20 cm baking dish or line it with parchment paper.
- Prepare the Zucchini: Grate 120 g of zucchini finely, keeping the moisture (do not squeeze it out).
- Mix Cheese and Yogurt: In a bowl, combine 120 g of grated cheese and 120 g of yogurt.
- Add Baking Soda: Stir in 1 teaspoon of baking soda, which will react with the yogurt and create a fizzing sound.
- Add Egg and Flours: Mix in the egg, then add 100 g of cornmeal, 50 g of chickpea flour, and 50 g of rice flour or ground oats. Mix well until combined.
- Add Seasonings and Herbs: Incorporate garlic and finely chopped herbs of your choice. Mix everything well to form a smooth batter.
- Pour into Baking Dish: Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for about 40 minutes, or until the loaf is golden brown with a crispy crust.
- Cool and Serve: Remove from the oven, let it cool slightly, then slice and serve warm or at room temperature.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve warm with a dollop of Greek yogurt or herb dip.
- Pair with a fresh salad or as a side to a bowl of soup.
- Enjoy as a savory breakfast on its own or with a fried egg on top.
Cooking Tips
- Cheese Variations: Feel free to use different types of cheese or mix multiple kinds for extra flavor.
- Herb Options: Fresh herbs like parsley, dill, or chives add great flavor to the loaf.
- Garlic Substitute: If you’re not a fan of garlic, you can replace it with onion powder or other spices.
Nutritional Benefits
- High in Protein: Contains protein from eggs, cheese, and chickpea flour.
- Rich in Fiber: Made with chickpea flour and zucchini, providing a good amount of fiber.
- Gluten-Free: Suitable for those with gluten sensitivity or intolerance.
Dietary Information
- Vegetarian: This recipe is vegetarian-friendly.
- Gluten-Free: Made with gluten-free flours (cornmeal, chickpea, and rice flour).
Nutritional Facts (per serving)
- Calories: 180
- Protein: 7g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fat: 8g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 2g
Storage Tips
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes or in a microwave for 30 seconds to 1 minute.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Prepare: Minimal ingredients and simple steps.
- Customizable: Can be adjusted to include your favorite cheeses, herbs, and spices.
- Healthy and Filling: A perfect balance of protein, fiber, and healthy fats.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: Make ahead and enjoy throughout the week.
Conclusion
This savory zucchini snack loaf is a versatile, healthy, and delicious option for a gluten-free breakfast or snack. Packed with flavor from cheese, garlic, and fresh herbs, it’s easy to prepare and customize, sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Enjoy the delightful taste and texture!
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes, replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 3 tablespoons water) and use a vegan cheese alternative. - Can I use different types of flour?
Absolutely! You can substitute chickpea or rice flour with other gluten-free flours like almond flour or coconut flour. - Can I add more vegetables?
Yes, grated carrots, bell peppers, or spinach would be great additions. - How can I make it nut-free?
This recipe is already nut-free. Just ensure no cross-contamination if you have severe allergies. - Can I freeze the zucchini loaf?
Yes, you can freeze it. Wrap in plastic wrap and then foil, and store for up to 2 months. - Can I omit the garlic?
Yes, you can omit the garlic or replace it with other spices or herbs to suit your taste. - Can I use other types of cheese?
Yes, cheddar, feta, or a mix of cheeses would work well for different flavors. - Is it okay to use low-fat yogurt?
Yes, you can use low-fat yogurt, but it may slightly alter the texture. - How do I keep the loaf from becoming too dry?
Ensure the zucchini retains its moisture and do not overbake. Cover with foil if it starts to brown too quickly. - What can I serve with this loaf?
Serve it with a salad, soup, or a poached egg for a complete meal.