This Zucchini Cheese Bake recipe is a simple yet delicious dish that combines the fresh taste of zucchini with the richness of cheese and the fluffiness of eggs. Whether you are looking for a light meal, a side dish, or a quick snack, this bake has it all. It’s perfect for those who want a healthy, baked alternative to fried zucchini dishes and makes use of simple ingredients you likely have in your kitchen. Plus, it’s easy to make, and you can bake it in under 30 minutes!

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

Zucchini – 350 g (about 3 medium-sized zucchinis)
Salt – to taste (to help release excess moisture from the zucchini)

Cheese – 100 g (any soft, melting cheese like mozzarella or cheddar will work)
Flour – 2 tablespoons (all-purpose flour)
Eggs – 2 large eggs

Baking Powder – 1/2 teaspoon (for added fluffiness)
Olive oil – for greasing the baking tray

Instructions:

Prepare the Zucchini: Start by washing and grating the zucchini. Once grated, place the zucchini into a large bowl. Sprinkle some salt over the grated zucchini and allow it to sit for about 10 minutes. This helps to draw out the excess moisture from the zucchini, ensuring the bake won’t be soggy.

Squeeze Out the Moisture: After 10 minutes, take the grated zucchini and use your hands or a clean kitchen towel to squeeze out as much moisture as possible. This step is important to achieve the right texture for the bake.
Prepare the Batter: In a mixing bowl, combine the drained zucchini, grated cheese, flour, eggs, and baking powder. Stir everything together until well combined. The batter should be thick but not too dry. If it seems too wet, you can add an additional tablespoon of flour.
Preheat the Oven: While you’re preparing the batter, preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).

Prepare the Baking Tray: Lightly grease a baking tray with olive oil. You can also use parchment paper if you prefer. Pour the zucchini mixture into the prepared baking tray, spreading it out evenly so that it cooks uniformly.
Bake: Place the baking tray into the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the bake is golden brown on top and has firmed up in the center.
Serve: Once baked, remove from the oven and allow the bake to cool slightly before cutting it into squares or slices. Serve warm, and garnish with fresh herbs like parsley if desired.

Cooking Tips:

Cheese Options: For a richer flavor, you can mix cheeses such as parmesan and mozzarella. Feta cheese can also be used for a slightly tangy taste.
Make it Gluten-Free: You can substitute regular flour with gluten-free flour or almond flour to make this dish suitable for those with gluten intolerance.
Extra Add-ins: Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots or bell peppers to the mix. Chopped fresh herbs like dill or basil can also add more flavor.

Egg Alternatives: If you are looking for a vegan alternative, you can substitute the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon of ground flax seeds mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water per egg) and use vegan cheese.

Storage:

Refrigerator: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or a toaster for a crispy finish.
Freezing: This bake freezes well! Once cooled, you can freeze individual portions wrapped in plastic wrap and stored in an airtight container. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Nutritional Facts (per serving):

Note: Nutritional values are approximate and based on a standard serving size.

Calories: 140 kcal
Carbohydrates: 8g

Protein: 6g
Fat: 10g
Fiber: 2g

Sodium: 220mg
Calcium: 90mg

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

Can I use other vegetables instead of zucchini? Yes, this recipe is versatile! You can use grated carrots, butternut squash, or even sweet potatoes as a substitute for zucchini.

What type of cheese works best for this recipe? Any melting cheese like mozzarella, cheddar, or a combination of cheeses will work well. You can experiment with sharper cheeses like parmesan for added flavor.
Can I make this bake ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the batter and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 12 hours before baking. Just make sure to cover it well.
How can I make this recipe low-carb? To make this recipe low-carb, you can skip the flour or use almond flour instead of all-purpose flour.

Conclusion:

The Zucchini Cheese Bake is an easy, healthy, and tasty dish that can serve as a perfect appetizer, snack, or even a light meal. Its versatility allows you to customize it to your taste, and it is a great way to make the most of seasonal vegetables. With a few simple ingredients and minimal effort, you can enjoy this nutritious bake any day of the week. Pair it with a side salad or serve as an appetizer at your next gathering – either way, it’s bound to be a hit!