Zucchini Cheese Pancakes blend the freshness of zucchini with the heartiness of cheese, creating a delectable dish that’s both nutritious and satisfying. Ideal for breakfast, lunch, or a light dinner, these pancakes are a versatile addition to any meal plan.
Whether you’re looking for a quick weekday meal or something special for weekend brunch, these Zucchini Cheese Pancakes are perfect. They offer a fantastic way to use seasonal zucchini and can be dressed up with various toppings like sour cream, chives, or even a sprinkle of extra cheese.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- Zucchini: 3, grated
- Eggs: 2 large
- Cheese: 150g, grated (your choice of meltable cheese)
- Onion: 1/2, finely chopped
- All-Purpose Flour: 3 tablespoons
- Salt: to taste
- Ground Black Pepper: to taste
- Rosemary: finely chopped (optional)
- Chili Flakes or Powder: optional, for a spicy touch
- Olive Oil: for frying
Directions:
- Prepare the batter by combining grated zucchini, beaten eggs, grated cheese, and chopped onion in a large mixing bowl.
- Stir in the flour to help bind the mixture together.
- Season with salt, pepper, and optionally, rosemary and chili flakes for added flavor.
- Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a non-stick frying pan over medium heat.
- Spoon portions of the zucchini mixture into the pan, forming pancakes. Flatten slightly with the back of a spoon.
- Fry each pancake for about 3-4 minutes on one side until golden brown, then flip and cook for another 3-4 minutes on the other side.
- Transfer cooked pancakes to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
- Repeat with the remaining batter, adding more olive oil to the pan as needed.
- Serve hot with your favorite sauce, like ketchup or a yogurt-based dip.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes
Kcal: 210 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
Why You’ll Love These Pancakes
- Health Benefits: Zucchini is known for its low calorie count and high nutritional value. It is rich in vitamins A and C, potassium, and fiber, which are essential for maintaining good health. Incorporating zucchini into pancakes is a tasty way to get a good portion of your daily vegetable intake.
- Versatility: This recipe is wonderfully adaptable. Feel free to add or substitute ingredients based on your dietary needs or what you have on hand. For example, you can use gluten-free flour to make it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities, or toss in some diced bell peppers for an extra pop of color and nutrition.
- Cheesy Goodness: The addition of cheese not only brings a rich and melty texture but also adds calcium and protein to the dish. Choose from a variety of cheeses like mozzarella for mild flavor, or sharp cheddar for a bit more zest.
- Kid-Friendly: These pancakes are a hit with kids and a sneaky way to include vegetables in their diet. The cheese helps mask the green of the zucchini, making it a clever dish for picky eaters.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your Zucchini Cheese Pancakes hot off the skillet with a dollop of sour cream or a light yogurt-based dip. They pair wonderfully with a fresh side salad or as a side dish to your main course. For a brunch spread, serve them alongside scrambled eggs and crispy bacon for a hearty meal.
Cooking Tips
- Moisture Control: To avoid soggy pancakes, make sure to squeeze out as much moisture as possible from the grated zucchini before mixing it with the other ingredients. A clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth works well for this purpose.
- Keep them Warm: If you’re serving pancakes to a group, keep them warm in a low oven until you’re ready to serve. This will help maintain their delightful crispy edges.
- Batch Cooking: These pancakes freeze well, so don’t hesitate to double the recipe and freeze extras for an easy future meal. Simply reheat in a toaster oven or on a skillet for a quick and delicious option.
Conclusion
Zucchini Cheese Pancakes are a fantastic way to enjoy a nutritious, satisfying meal any time of the day. With their delightful flavor and easy preparation, they’re sure to become a staple in your cooking repertoire. Give this recipe a try and watch it become a new favorite in your household!