Zucchini and Potato Savory Cake

This Zucchini and Potato Savory Cake is a delicious and nutritious dish that can be enjoyed as a breakfast, brunch, or even a light dinner. It is packed with healthy vegetables like zucchinis and potatoes, balanced with eggs, cheese, and a soft cake-like texture. Whether you’re looking for a quick meal or a tasty snack, this savory cake is easy to make and versatile enough to pair with any side dish. The combination of Parmesan cheese, fresh spreadable cheese, and tender vegetables makes this cake flavorful and satisfying for both kids and adults alike.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

  • Zucchinis: 2
  • Olive oil: 1 tablespoon
  • Eggs: 4
  • Black pepper: 1/4 teaspoon
  • Salt: 3/4 teaspoon
  • Sugar: 1 teaspoon
  • Milk: 6 and 1/2 tablespoons (100 ml)
  • Vegetable oil: 4 and 1/2 tablespoons (60 ml)
  • All-purpose flour: 1 and 1/4 cups (140g)
  • Baking powder: 2 and 1/2 teaspoons (12g)
  • Potato: 1 medium-sized 🥔
  • Onion: 1 small 🧅
  • Parmesan cheese: 2-3 tablespoons (for the mixture)
  • Fresh spreadable cheese: Optional
  • Extra Parmesan cheese: For garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

  1. Grate the Zucchini: Wash the zucchinis and grate them using a box grater or food processor. After grating, place the zucchini in a bowl and sprinkle with a little salt. Let it sit for 10 minutes to draw out excess moisture, then squeeze the zucchini to remove as much liquid as possible.
  2. Dice the Potato: Peel and finely dice the potato into small cubes. Boil the potato for about 5-7 minutes until it’s slightly tender, but not fully cooked. Drain and set aside.
  3. Chop the Onion: Finely chop the small onion and set it aside with the potato.

Step 2: Make the Batter

  1. Mix the Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 4 eggs, 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper, 3/4 teaspoon of salt, 1 teaspoon of sugar, 6 and 1/2 tablespoons of milk, and 4 and 1/2 tablespoons of vegetable oil. Whisk until smooth and well combined.
  2. Add the Dry Ingredients: Gradually sift in 1 and 1/4 cups of all-purpose flour and 2 and 1/2 teaspoons of baking powder. Continue to whisk the batter until it is lump-free and smooth.
  3. Add Parmesan: Stir in 2-3 tablespoons of grated Parmesan cheese. This will add a savory depth to the frittata.

Step 3: Combine the Vegetables and Batter

  1. Add the Zucchini, Potato, and Onion: Fold the grated zucchini, diced potatoes, and chopped onions into the batter. Make sure all the vegetables are evenly coated with the mixture.
  2. Optional Fresh Cheese: If you want a creamier texture, you can also fold in small dollops of fresh spreadable cheese (such as ricotta or cream cheese) for added richness.

Step 4: Cook the Frittata

  1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 180°C (356°F).
  2. Heat the Olive Oil: In a large ovenproof skillet or baking dish, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, pour the frittata mixture into the skillet. Spread it out evenly.
  3. Garnish with Parmesan: Sprinkle some extra Parmesan cheese on top for a golden, crispy finish.
  4. Bake the Frittata: Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the frittata is fully set and lightly golden on top. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center—if it comes out clean, the frittata is ready.
  5. Let it Cool Slightly: Remove the frittata from the oven and let it cool for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Cooking Tips

  • Don’t Skip Draining the Zucchini: Zucchinis contain a lot of water, so squeezing out the excess liquid is essential for achieving the right texture. Failing to do this can make the frittata watery.
  • Pre-cook the Potato: Slightly boiling the potato before adding it to the batter ensures that it will cook through fully in the oven without becoming too mushy.
  • Cheese Variations: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses. Cheddar, Gouda, or feta would also work well in this recipe.
  • Use a Non-Stick Pan: A well-oiled or non-stick pan will help to prevent the frittata from sticking and make it easier to remove from the skillet.
  • Add Extra Veggies: You can easily customize this recipe by adding other vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms.

Storage

  • In the Refrigerator: Store leftover frittata in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat slices in the microwave or in a skillet over low heat.
  • Freezing: The frittata can also be frozen for up to 1 month. Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. Reheat from frozen by placing slices in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 290 kcal
  • Protein: 12g
  • Fat: 18g
  • Carbohydrates: 22g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 620mg

FAQs

1. Can I make this frittata ahead of time?

Yes! This frittata can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s great for meal prep and reheats well.

2. What can I serve with the frittata?

This dish pairs well with a fresh salad, crusty bread, or roasted vegetables. You can also serve it with a dollop of sour cream or some fresh salsa for added flavor.

3. Can I make this frittata without eggs?

While eggs are the base of a traditional frittata, you can try making an egg-free version by using a combination of chickpea flour and water as a substitute for eggs. You’ll need to experiment with the consistency to get the best results.

4. How do I prevent the frittata from sticking to the pan?

Using a non-stick skillet or baking dish is key to preventing sticking. Make sure to coat the pan with enough olive oil before pouring in the batter. If using a regular pan, greasing it generously or lining it with parchment paper can help.

5. Can I add meat to the frittata?

Certainly! You can add cooked bacon, sausage, or ham for a heartier version. Make sure to cook the meat thoroughly before adding it to the frittata mixture.

Conclusion

This Savory Zucchini and Potato Frittata is a versatile and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any time of day. Whether you’re serving it for breakfast, brunch, or dinner, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser. The combination of fresh zucchini, potatoes, Parmesan cheese, and eggs makes for a comforting yet nutritious meal. Plus, the recipe is easy to customize based on your preferences. Enjoy this frittata with a simple side salad or some fresh bread for a complete and satisfying meal!