This Zucchini Casserole is a delightful dish bursting with savory flavors, making it a perfect choice for any meal. Whether you’re looking for a nutritious family dinner or a dish to bring to a potluck, this recipe is versatile and sure to impress. The fresh zucchinis and onions, seasoned with a blend of spices, are baked to perfection, creating a comforting and satisfying casserole. The combination of eggs and cheese adds a creamy texture that complements the tender vegetables, making every bite a delicious experience.
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
Ingredients
- 2 Zucchinis
- 1 Onion
- 3 tablespoons Olive Oil
- Salt (to taste)
- Black Pepper (to taste)
- Dried Garlic (to taste)
- Turmeric (to taste)
- Fresh Parsley, chopped
- 2 Cloves of Garlic, minced
- 3 Eggs
- 150 grams (about 1 ½ cups) Cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or your choice)
Directions
- Preheat Your Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).
- Prepare the Vegetables:
- Cut the zucchinis into half rings and transfer them to a bowl. Cover them with water.
- Cut the onion into half rings and add them to the bowl with the zucchinis.
- Drizzle 3 tablespoons of olive oil over the zucchini and onion. Season with salt, black pepper, dried garlic, and turmeric. Mix well to coat the vegetables evenly.
- Spread the seasoned zucchini and onion mixture onto a baking sheet in a single layer.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
- Prepare the Egg Mixture:
- While the zucchini is baking, finely chop the parsley and mince the garlic. Place them in a separate bowl.
- Crack the eggs into the bowl with parsley and garlic. Season with salt and pepper, then mix well to combine.
- Coarsely grate 150 grams of cheese.
- Combine and Bake:
- Once the zucchini is done baking, transfer it to a large bowl. Add the egg mixture and mix everything well to combine.
- Spread half of the zucchini mixture evenly onto a baking sheet. Sprinkle half of the grated cheese on top.
- Layer the remaining zucchini mixture on top of the cheese layer. Sprinkle the remaining cheese over the top.
- Bake the casserole in the oven at 200°C (400°F) for another 15 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the top is golden brown.
- Once done, remove the Zucchini Casserole from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a fresh green salad and crusty bread for a complete meal.
- Serve alongside grilled chicken or fish for added protein.
- For a vegetarian feast, consider adding a side of roasted potatoes or a grain salad.
Cooking Tips
- For a crispier topping, sprinkle some breadcrumbs mixed with grated Parmesan cheese over the top before baking.
- Season the vegetables well to bring out their natural flavors.
- Substitute some of the olive oil with melted butter for a richer flavor.
Nutritional Benefits
- Zucchini: Low in calories but high in essential nutrients like vitamins A and C, potassium, and fiber.
- Onions: Great for boosting the immune system and have anti-inflammatory properties.
- Eggs and Cheese: Add a good amount of protein and calcium, making this casserole not only tasty but also nutritious.
Dietary Information
- Vegetarian: This recipe is vegetarian.
- Gluten-Free: Can be made gluten-free by ensuring all ingredients are certified gluten-free.
- Dairy-Free: Substitute the cheese with a plant-based alternative to make it dairy-free.
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)
- Calories: 290 kcal
- Protein: 12g
- Fat: 22g
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 5g
Storage
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: The casserole can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
You’ll love this Zucchini Casserole because it’s easy to make, full of healthy ingredients, and incredibly versatile. The combination of fresh zucchinis, savory onions, and creamy cheese creates a delightful balance of flavors and textures that everyone will enjoy. Plus, it’s a great way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet in a delicious and satisfying way.
Conclusion
This Zucchini Casserole is a wonderful addition to any meal plan, offering a perfect balance of flavor, nutrition, and ease of preparation. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting friends, this dish is sure to be a hit. Its rich, savory taste and comforting texture make it a favorite that you’ll want to make again and again. Enjoy the wholesome goodness and delicious flavors of this delightful casserole!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Can I add other vegetables to this casserole?
- Yes, you can add sliced mushrooms, bell peppers, or tomatoes to the casserole for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Can I use a different type of cheese?
- Absolutely! Feel free to use any cheese you prefer, such as Gouda, Swiss, or a spicy pepper jack.
- How do I make this dish gluten-free?
- Ensure that any spices or additional ingredients used are certified gluten-free, and you’re good to go!
- Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
- Yes, you can assemble the casserole a day in advance and bake it just before serving. Store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake.
- What can I use instead of olive oil?
- You can substitute olive oil with vegetable oil, avocado oil, or melted butter.
- How do I reheat leftovers?
- Reheat leftovers in the oven at 180°C (350°F) until warmed through, or microwave individual portions.
- Can I make this casserole dairy-free?
- Yes, use dairy-free cheese alternatives and substitute the milk in the egg mixture with a plant-based milk.
- What should I do if the casserole is too watery?
- If the casserole seems too watery, bake it for a little longer or let it rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the excess moisture to be absorbed.
- Can I freeze this casserole?
- Yes, the casserole can be frozen. After baking, let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly and freeze. Thaw before reheating.
- Is this casserole suitable for meal prep?
- Definitely! This casserole stores well and can be portioned out for meal prep. It’s a great option for make-ahead lunches or dinners.