If you’re looking for a nutritious and delicious dinner recipe that can be prepared in just 10 minutes, this zucchini dish is the perfect solution. Made with simple ingredients like zucchini, tomatoes, eggs, and mozzarella cheese, this recipe is not only quick and easy but also packed with flavor and nutrition. It’s perfect for a busy weeknight meal when you want something light, satisfying, and healthy.

The soft texture of zucchini combined with the richness of eggs, the freshness of tomatoes, and the creaminess of mozzarella cheese creates a dish that feels indulgent while being incredibly healthy. Plus, it’s versatile enough to be served for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Whether you’re a busy professional, a parent, or simply someone who loves a good home-cooked meal, this recipe is a great addition to your repertoire.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

• 2 medium zucchinis
  (Grated or finely chopped, approximately 300g each)
• Salt
  (To taste; about 1/2 teaspoon)
• 1 medium tomato
  (Diced, around 120g)
• 4 large eggs
  (Beaten)
• Parsley
  (Freshly chopped, about 2 tablespoons)
• Garlic powder
  (To taste; around 1/2 teaspoon)
• Black pepper
  (To taste; about 1/4 teaspoon)
• 6 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  (You can use whole wheat flour or gluten-free flour as a substitute)
• Olive oil
  (For cooking, about 2 tablespoons)
• 100g mozzarella cheese
  (Grated; approximately 1 cup)
• Thyme
  (Dried or fresh, to taste, around 1/2 teaspoon)

Detailed Instructions:

1. Prepare the Zucchinis:
   • Wash and grate the 2 zucchinis into a large bowl. Zucchinis have high water content, so it’s important to remove some of the moisture to ensure your dish doesn’t turn out too soggy.
   • Sprinkle salt over the grated zucchini (about 1/2 teaspoon) and let it sit for around 5-10 minutes. The salt helps draw out the water from the zucchini. After this time, use a kitchen towel or cheesecloth to squeeze out the excess liquid.
2. Prepare the Other Ingredients:
   • While the zucchini sits, dice 1 tomato and set it aside.
   • In a separate bowl, crack and beat the 4 eggs. Season the eggs with garlic powder, black pepper, and a little more salt to taste.
   • Add the squeezed zucchini to the egg mixture and mix well.
3. Combine the Ingredients:
   • Add the diced tomato to the zucchini and egg mixture. Stir until all the ingredients are well combined.
   • Next, gradually add the 6 tablespoons of flour to the mixture, stirring continuously to avoid lumps. The flour helps bind the ingredients together, giving the dish structure as it cooks.
4. Heat the Pan and Cook:
   • Heat a large non-stick skillet over medium heat and add olive oil (about 2 tablespoons) to the pan. Swirl the oil around so it evenly coats the bottom of the skillet.
   • Pour the zucchini-egg mixture into the skillet, spreading it evenly across the pan. Let it cook undisturbed for about 3-5 minutes or until the bottom is golden brown and slightly crispy.
5. Add Mozzarella and Herbs:
   • Once the mixture is nearly cooked through, sprinkle the grated mozzarella cheese evenly over the top. Cover the skillet with a lid for a couple of minutes to help the cheese melt and the dish cook all the way through.
   • Sprinkle thyme and freshly chopped parsley over the melted cheese for added flavor and aroma.
6. Finishing Touches:
   • Once the cheese is fully melted and the dish is cooked to your liking, carefully slide the zucchini mixture out of the skillet and onto a serving platter.
   • For an extra touch of flavor, drizzle a bit more olive oil over the top, and sprinkle a bit more parsley and thyme if desired.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
   • Cut the zucchini mixture into wedges or squares, and serve it hot with a side of fresh salad, crusty bread, or even a bowl of soup. This dish is delicious on its own, but it also pairs well with a variety of side dishes.

Why This Zucchini Recipe is So Special:

1. Nutrient-Packed:
   Zucchini is a fantastic vegetable that’s low in calories but high in essential vitamins and minerals like Vitamin C, potassium, and antioxidants. When combined with eggs, you’re getting a protein boost, making this dish not only tasty but also incredibly nutritious.
2. Quick and Easy:
   This recipe comes together in just about 10 minutes, making it perfect for busy days when you need something quick yet satisfying. The ingredients are simple and easy to find, and the steps are straightforward.
3. Versatile:
   You can enjoy this zucchini dish for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. It’s also great for meal prepping—simply store any leftovers in the fridge and reheat for a quick meal the next day.
4. Customizable:
   Feel free to add your favorite herbs and spices to give the dish your personal touch. You can also add extra ingredients like cooked chicken, ham, or bacon bits for a heartier meal, or switch up the cheeses for different flavors.

Tips for the Best Zucchini Dish:

• Remove Moisture:
  Always make sure to squeeze out as much moisture as possible from the zucchini before cooking. This prevents the dish from becoming too watery and helps achieve a better texture.
• Use Fresh Herbs:
  Fresh parsley and thyme add a burst of flavor to this recipe. If you don’t have fresh herbs on hand, dried herbs will work too, but be sure to adjust the quantities (you’ll need less dried herbs than fresh).
• Choose the Right Cheese:
  While mozzarella works great in this recipe, you can experiment with other types of cheese like cheddar, feta, or gouda. Each will bring a unique flavor to the dish.
• Make It Gluten-Free:
  If you’re gluten intolerant, substitute the all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour or almond flour. This way, you can still enjoy the dish without any issues.

FAQs:

1. Can I use different vegetables in this recipe?
Yes! You can add or substitute vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms. Just make sure to cook or squeeze out the moisture from watery vegetables before adding them to the mixture.

2. How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll keep for up to 2 days. You can reheat them in the microwave or on the stovetop.

3. Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, you can freeze this dish, but it’s best to freeze it before adding the mozzarella cheese. When ready to eat, thaw the dish and then add the cheese before reheating.

4. Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Yes! Simply substitute the mozzarella cheese with a dairy-free cheese or omit the cheese altogether. You can also use a dairy-free milk in place of regular milk if you’re adding any liquid to the mixture.

5. Can I make this recipe in the oven?
Absolutely! Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish and bake at 180°C (350°F) for about 20-25 minutes or until the top is golden and the dish is cooked through.

 

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):

Note: These values may vary depending on the ingredients and portion sizes used.

• Calories: 250 kcal
• Protein: 12g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fat: 14g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sodium: 300mg