Embrace the essence of a bountiful garden with our Zucchini and Pepper Savory Cake. This delightful dish combines the fresh, vibrant flavors of zucchini and peppers with the comforting richness of cheese, all baked into a perfect golden brown cake that’s as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate.
Ideal for any occasion, from a casual family dinner to a more formal gathering, this savory cake is sure to impress. Its wholesome ingredients and straightforward preparation make it a standout choice for those seeking a nutritious yet delicious meal option.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 2.2 pounds (1 kg) zucchini, thinly sliced
- 2 long green peppers, cut into strips
- 2 red peppers, cut into strips
- 1 carrot, peeled and grated
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 teaspoons olive oil
- 1 1/4 cups milk
- 1 1/8 cups all-purpose flour
- 3 eggs
- 2 tablespoons dill, chopped
- 1 sachet of baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3.5 ounces (100 g) cheese, grated (type according to preference)
Directions:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
- In a large frying pan, heat olive oil and sauté zucchini, peppers, carrot, and onion until tender.
- In a bowl, mix milk, olive oil, and eggs. Gradually add flour, baking powder, dill, salt, and pepper.
- In a greased baking dish, layer vegetables, pour sauce, and sprinkle cheese. Repeat layers, ending with cheese.
- Bake for 45-50 minutes or until golden and firm.
Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 50 minutes | Total Time: 70 minutes | Kcal: 350 | Servings: 6
Why You’ll Love This Dish
- Healthy Ingredients: This recipe uses fresh vegetables like zucchini, peppers, and carrots, which are not only flavorful but also packed with essential vitamins and minerals. The inclusion of dill adds a unique flavor and offers additional antioxidant benefits.
- Versatile and Adaptable: While this recipe gives a basic guideline, it’s incredibly flexible. Feel free to add other vegetables like spinach or mushrooms to tailor it to your taste or to use up whatever you have in your fridge. It’s also easy to make this dish gluten-free by substituting the all-purpose flour with any gluten-free flour of your choice.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just making a weeknight meal for your family, this savory cake fits perfectly. It’s substantial enough to serve as a main dish and pairs wonderfully with a light salad or soup.
Nutritional Benefits
The Zucchini and Pepper Savory Cake isn’t just tasty; it’s also beneficial for your health. Zucchini is low in calories and high in water and fiber, making it excellent for digestion. Peppers are rich in vitamins A and C, which are vital for immune health and skin integrity. Furthermore, the eggs and cheese provide a good amount of protein and calcium.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Results
- Even Thickness: When slicing your zucchini and peppers, try to keep them at an even thickness to ensure they cook uniformly and provide a pleasing texture in every bite.
- Proper Layering: To maximize the flavors and achieve the perfect texture, layer the vegetables and cheese meticulously as directed. Each layer should be evenly coated with the sauce to allow the flavors to meld beautifully while baking.
- Check Doneness: Since oven temperatures can vary, check the cake 5-10 minutes before the suggested baking time. The cake should be golden on top and firm to the touch.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this savory cake warm directly from the oven. It pairs excellently with a crisp white wine such as a Sauvignon Blanc or a chilled rosé, which complements the lightness of the vegetables and the depth of the cheese. For a non-alcoholic option, a sparkling apple cider or a herbal lemonade would be just as delightful.
By adding this Zucchini and Pepper Savory Cake to your culinary repertoire, you’re not just serving food; you’re creating moments of joy and healthfulness that your family and guests will appreciate.