This Zucchini and Cheese Oatmeal Bake is a quick, nutritious dish that’s perfect for breakfast, lunch, or even a light dinner. The combination of grated zucchini, cheese, and oatmeal makes for a satisfying, savory meal that’s both healthy and delicious. With just a few simple ingredients, this recipe comes together in under 30 minutes and can be easily customized to suit your taste.
Preparation Time:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Servings: 2-3
Ingredients:
- 1 medium zucchini, grated
- Salt, to taste
- 3-4 tablespoons oatmeal
- 100g (1 cup) cheese, grated (cheddar, mozzarella, or your choice)
- 2 eggs
- Pepper, to taste
- Chives, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Directions:
Step 1: Prepare the Zucchini
- Grate the Zucchini:
Grate the zucchini and place it in a bowl. Sprinkle with a pinch of salt and let it sit for 10 minutes. This helps to draw out excess moisture. - Drain the Zucchini:
After 10 minutes, squeeze the zucchini with your hands or in a clean kitchen towel to remove the excess water. Set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Batter
- Mix the Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the drained zucchini, 3-4 tablespoons of oatmeal, 100g of grated cheese, and 2 eggs. Season with pepper to taste. - Stir in Chives:
Add chopped chives if using, and mix everything until well combined.
Step 3: Bake
- Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 180°C (360°F). - Bake:
Transfer the mixture to a baking dish or muffin tin. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
Step 4: Finish Baking
- Open the Lid:
After 20 minutes, open the oven door and continue baking for an additional 10 minutes to allow the top to brown and the mixture to set.
Step 5: Serve
- Cool and Serve:
Let the zucchini bake cool slightly before serving. Garnish with extra chives if desired, and enjoy warm!
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with a side salad or fresh greens for a light lunch.
- Pair with scrambled eggs or avocado for a hearty breakfast.
- Enjoy alongside roasted vegetables or grilled chicken for a complete dinner.
- Add a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt for a creamy contrast.
- Serve with tomato salsa or hot sauce for a little extra kick.
Cooking Tips:
- Remove Excess Moisture: Be sure to squeeze out as much water as possible from the zucchini to prevent the bake from becoming too soggy.
- Customize the Cheese: You can use any type of cheese you prefer—feta, parmesan, or a combination of cheeses will work well.
- Oatmeal Substitute: If you don’t have oatmeal, you can substitute with breadcrumbs or crushed crackers for a similar texture.
- Add Protein: For a more filling dish, add cooked bacon, sausage, or ham to the mixture.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Zucchini is low in calories and a good source of vitamins A and C, promoting immune health and good vision.
- Oatmeal adds fiber and protein, making this bake more filling and promoting digestive health.
- Eggs provide high-quality protein and essential vitamins such as B12 and D.
- Cheese adds calcium and protein, supporting bone health.
Dietary Information:
- Vegetarian: This recipe is suitable for vegetarians.
- Gluten-Free: Use certified gluten-free oats to make this recipe gluten-free.
- Low-carb option: Substitute oatmeal with almond flour or coconut flour for a lower-carb alternative.
Nutritional Facts (per serving, approx.):
- Calories: 220
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Protein: 13g
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 2g
Storage Tips:
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: You can freeze the bake for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat before serving.
- Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 160°C (320°F) for about 10 minutes, or in the microwave for 1-2 minutes until warm.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Quick and Easy: Perfect for busy days when you need a healthy, filling meal in under 30 minutes.
- Customizable: Easily adjust the ingredients to your preferences by adding different vegetables, cheese, or protein.
- Nutritious: Packed with protein, fiber, and vitamins, this bake is a great way to start your day or enjoy a light meal.
- Vegetarian-Friendly: This recipe is entirely vegetarian and can be made gluten-free for those with dietary restrictions.
- Great for Meal Prep: This bake stores well and can be easily reheated, making it ideal for meal prep.
Conclusion:
This Zucchini and Cheese Oatmeal Bake is a delicious, healthy option that combines the fresh flavors of zucchini with the richness of cheese and the wholesome texture of oatmeal. It’s quick to prepare and perfect for a variety of meals, from breakfast to dinner. With simple ingredients and versatile options, this recipe is a must-try for anyone looking for a nutritious and tasty dish. Enjoy!