This Zucchini and Vegetable Bake is a flavorful, healthy dish combining layers of tender zucchini, vibrant vegetables, and melted mozzarella. Paired with a creamy garlic sauce, it’s a wholesome meal perfect for any occasion.
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
Servings
Makes: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1.2-1.3 kg (2.5-3 lbs) zucchini, grated
- 3 eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 30 ml (1 fl oz) olive oil
- 1 cup flour
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 2 onions, finely chopped
- Vegetable oil (for sautéing)
- 1 carrot, grated
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, diced
- 1 long pepper, diced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
- 100 g (3.5 oz) pizza mozzarella, grated
- 1 tbsp dill, chopped
For the Garlic Sauce:
- 2 tbsp Greek yogurt
- 2 tbsp mayonnaise
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp curry powder
- 1/2 tsp sweet paprika
Directions
- Prepare the Zucchini Base:
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Grate the zucchini and squeeze out excess moisture using a clean kitchen towel or paper towels.
- Mix the Batter:
- In a large bowl, beat the eggs and mix in the milk and olive oil.
- Gradually add the flour and baking powder, mixing until smooth.
- Fold in the grated zucchini and season with salt and pepper. Set aside.
- Sauté the Vegetables:
- Heat a tablespoon of vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Sauté the chopped onions until soft, then add the grated carrot, diced peppers, and minced garlic. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. Season with salt and pepper.
- Assemble the Bake:
- Grease a baking dish with olive oil.
- Pour half of the zucchini batter into the dish, spreading it evenly.
- Layer the sautéed vegetables over the batter.
- Top with the remaining zucchini batter and sprinkle with grated mozzarella.
- Bake the Casserole:
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown and set in the middle.
- Prepare the Garlic Sauce:
- In a small bowl, mix Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, minced garlic, curry powder, and sweet paprika. Stir until well combined.
- Serve:
- Allow the casserole to cool slightly before slicing. Serve warm with a drizzle of garlic sauce and garnish with chopped dill.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve alongside a fresh green salad for a light meal.
- Pair with crusty bread or garlic bread.
- Add a side of roasted potatoes or steamed rice for a heartier dish.
Cooking Tips
- Use a mix of colorful bell peppers for added flavor and visual appeal.
- Ensure the zucchini is well-drained to avoid excess water in the bake.
- Substitute mozzarella with cheddar or feta for a different flavor profile.
Nutritional Benefits
- Zucchini: Low in calories, rich in vitamins A and C.
- Vegetables: Packed with fiber, antioxidants, and essential nutrients.
- Greek Yogurt: High in protein and probiotics.
Dietary Information
- Vegetarian: Yes
- Gluten-Free: Substitute flour with a gluten-free alternative.
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)
- Calories: ~220
- Protein: 10 g
- Carbohydrates: 18 g
- Fat: 12 g
- Fiber: 3 g
Storage
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Warm in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for 10 minutes or in the microwave.
- Freeze: Freeze individual portions for up to 1 month. Thaw before reheating.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Versatile and customizable with your favorite vegetables.
- Packed with nutrients and flavor.
- Perfect for meal prep or entertaining guests.
- A delicious way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet.
Conclusion
This Zucchini and Vegetable Bake with Mozzarella and Garlic Sauce is a wholesome, delicious dish that’s easy to prepare and packed with flavor. Whether served as a main course or side dish, it’s sure to delight everyone at the table. Try it for your next meal and enjoy the comfort of a homemade casserole with a gourmet touch!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Can I use frozen zucchini? Yes, but make sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly.
- What other cheeses can I use? Feta, cheddar, or Gouda work well.
- Can I make this ahead of time? Yes, assemble it in advance and bake just before serving.
- Can I skip the garlic sauce? Yes, but it adds a delicious flavor boost.
- Can I add meat to this recipe? Ground chicken or turkey can be sautéed with the vegetables.
- Can I replace Greek yogurt with sour cream? Yes, sour cream is a good substitute.
- What other herbs can I use? Basil, parsley, or oregano are great options.
- How can I make this dish vegan? Use plant-based milk, cheese, and yogurt.
- How do I prevent the bake from being watery? Drain the zucchini well before adding it to the batter.
- Can I double the recipe? Yes, use a larger baking dish and adjust the baking time accordingly.