If you’re searching for a delicious and satisfying way to enjoy zucchini, this Savory Zucchini Bake with Herb-Crusted Topping is the perfect recipe. Combining the fresh taste of zucchini with the richness of smoked cheese and a crispy herb-infused breadcrumb topping, this dish offers a delightful medley of flavors and textures. It’s an excellent choice for a quick weeknight dinner or as a savory side dish for a more elaborate meal.
Recipe
Ingredients:
- 2 zucchini
- Salt
- 4 slices of bread
- Herbs of Provence
- Parsley
- 1/2 onion
- Olive oil
- Black pepper
- 100 grams (1/2 cup) Parmesan cheese
- 2 eggs
- 5 tablespoons breadcrumbs
- 200 grams (1 cup) smoked cheese or mozzarella
- Olive oil (for greasing)
- Additional breadcrumbs
- Additional Parmesan cheese
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Slice the zucchini, sprinkle with salt, and let it steep for 10-15 minutes to draw out excess moisture.
- In the meantime, crumble the bread and mix with Herbs of Provence and parsley.
- Dice the onion and sauté in olive oil for 3-5 minutes until softened. Set aside.
- Remove the water from the zucchini by squeezing gently.
- Mix the zucchini with the sautéed onions, salt, black pepper, and 100 grams of Parmesan cheese.
- In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs and combine with 5 tablespoons of breadcrumbs and 200 grams of smoked cheese or mozzarella.
- Combine the egg mixture with the zucchini mixture and mix well.
- Grease a baking paper-lined mold with olive oil. Sprinkle with breadcrumbs and some Parmesan cheese.
- Pour the zucchini mixture into the prepared mold. Drizzle the top with olive oil and sprinkle additional breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, then turn on the grill for an additional 10 minutes to achieve a golden, crispy top.
For the Sauce:
- In a bowl, mix 3 tablespoons of Greek yogurt, 2-3 tablespoons of light mayonnaise, 1-2 tablespoons of Dijon mustard, and chopped parsley. Stir well and serve alongside the baked zucchini.
Nutritional Information:
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 60 minutes
- Calories: 400 kcal per serving
- Servings: 4 servings
More Information About This Recipe
This Savory Zucchini Bake with Herb-Crusted Topping is a wonderful way to enjoy the natural flavors of zucchini while adding a satisfying crunch and richness. The key to this recipe is the combination of herbs and Parmesan cheese with the breadcrumbs, creating a delectable crust that contrasts beautifully with the tender zucchini and melted cheese inside.
The preparation is straightforward, making it an ideal choice for those busy evenings when you need a quick yet impressive dish. The use of smoked cheese or mozzarella adds a depth of flavor that complements the zucchini perfectly, while the yogurt-mustard sauce provides a tangy and creamy element that enhances the overall taste.
Nutritional Benefits
This zucchini bake is not only tasty but also offers several nutritional benefits. Zucchini is low in calories and high in essential nutrients such as vitamins A and C, potassium, and dietary fiber, which are great for maintaining a healthy immune system and digestive health. The Parmesan cheese adds a good source of calcium and protein, vital for bone health and muscle function.
Eggs contribute high-quality protein and essential vitamins like B12 and D, while Greek yogurt in the sauce provides probiotics that support gut health. The inclusion of herbs like parsley and the herbs of Provence adds not only flavor but also antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties, making this dish a healthy choice.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Savory Zucchini Bake with Herb-Crusted Topping is a delightful recipe that combines simplicity with gourmet flavor. It’s a versatile dish that can serve as a main course or a hearty side, perfect for any occasion. The combination of tender zucchini, melted cheese, and a crispy herb-infused topping creates a balanced and satisfying meal that is sure to please everyone at the table.
With its nutritional benefits and delicious taste, this recipe is a must-try for anyone looking to add more vegetables to their diet in an enjoyable way. Serve it with the creamy yogurt-mustard sauce for an extra layer of flavor, and enjoy the compliments from your family and friends. This bake is sure to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire.