This Zucchini, Potato, and Carrot Bake is a simple and hearty dish that combines fresh vegetables with a cheesy, egg-based mixture, perfect for a wholesome meal. It’s easy to make and packed with flavor, making it a great addition to your weeknight dinner rotation.
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Ingredients
- 4 eggs
- Salt and black pepper (to taste)
- 100g yogurt
- 80g flour
- 1 zucchini, grated
- 1 potato, grated
- 1 carrot, grated
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 150g cheese (divided in half)
- Fresh dill (to taste)
- 20cm diameter mold, lined with parchment paper
Directions
- Prepare the Eggs:
- In a large bowl, beat 4 eggs.
- Season with salt and black pepper, and whisk until well combined.
- Add Yogurt and Flour:
- Stir in 100g of yogurt and 80g of flour until a smooth mixture forms.
- Grate Vegetables:
- Grate 1 zucchini, then lightly salt it and let it stand for 5 minutes to release excess moisture. After 5 minutes, squeeze out the excess water.
- Grate 1 potato and squeeze out the juice to prevent it from making the mixture too watery.
- Grate 1 carrot and finely chop 1 onion.
- Combine Ingredients:
- Add the prepared zucchini, potato, carrot, and onion into the egg mixture.
- Stir in half of the cheese (about 75g) and mix well.
- Add fresh dill to taste.
- Prepare the Mold:
- Line a 20cm diameter mold with parchment paper.
- Pour the vegetable mixture into the mold and spread it evenly.
- Top with Cheese:
- Sprinkle the remaining 75g of cheese over the top of the mixture.
- Bake:
- Preheat your oven to 200°C (390°F).
- Bake the dish for 30 minutes, or until the top is golden and the center is fully set.
- Serve:
- Let the bake cool slightly before slicing. Serve warm, and enjoy!
Serving Suggestions
- Serve this dish with a side salad or a slice of fresh bread.
- Add a dollop of sour cream or yogurt on top for extra creaminess.
Cooking Tips
- Make sure to squeeze out the excess moisture from the zucchini and potato to prevent the dish from becoming soggy.
- You can substitute the dill with other fresh herbs like parsley or basil for a different flavor.
Nutritional Benefits
- Vegetables: Zucchini, potato, and carrot provide essential vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants.
- Protein: Eggs and cheese add a good amount of protein.
- Calcium: Cheese and yogurt are great sources of calcium for bone health.
Dietary Information
- This dish contains gluten and dairy. You can substitute with gluten-free flour and dairy-free cheese and yogurt to accommodate dietary restrictions.
Storage
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: You can freeze portions for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple and Quick: Easy to make with basic ingredients.
- Versatile: A great way to use up leftover vegetables.
- Wholesome: Nutritious and filling, making it perfect for a family meal.
Conclusion
This Zucchini, Potato, and Carrot Bake is a delicious, vegetable-packed dish that’s easy to prepare and packed with flavor. With its cheesy topping and soft, tender vegetables, it’s sure to be a hit at your table.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Can I use different vegetables?
- Yes, you can substitute the zucchini, potato, or carrot with vegetables like sweet potato, broccoli, or bell peppers.
- Can I make this dish gluten-free?
- Yes, simply substitute the flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
- Can I use a different type of cheese?
- You can use any cheese you like, such as mozzarella, gouda, or even feta for a tangy flavor.
- How do I prevent the bake from being too watery?
- Make sure to squeeze out the excess moisture from the grated vegetables, especially the zucchini and potato.
- Can I prepare this in advance?
- Yes, you can prepare the mixture a few hours ahead and keep it in the fridge. Bake when ready to serve.
- Can I make this dish dairy-free?
- Yes, you can substitute the cheese and yogurt with dairy-free alternatives like vegan cheese and plant-based yogurt.
- What other herbs can I use besides dill?
- You can use parsley, basil, thyme, or cilantro for a different herb flavor.
- Can I add meat to this dish?
- Yes, cooked bacon, ham, or chicken can be added for a heartier version.
- How do I know when the bake is done?
- The top should be golden brown, and a toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean.
- How should I reheat leftovers?
- Reheat in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 10-15 minutes, or microwave individual portions.