This Easy Cheesy Zucchini Bake is a delicious and nutritious dish that’s simple to prepare and perfect for any meal. With fresh vegetables, a savory batter, and gooey cheddar cheese, this bake is sure to become a family favorite. Let’s get started!
Ingredients
To make this delicious Zucchini Bake, you will need:
- Zucchinis: 3, freshly grated
- Onion: 1, finely chopped
- Carrot: 1, grated
- Red Pepper: 1, finely diced
- Parsley: Chopped, to taste
- Vegetable Oil: 3-4 tablespoons (approximately 25 ml)
- Salt: 1 teaspoon
- Black Pepper: 1 teaspoon
- Eggs: 3, large
- Milk: 1.5 cups (300 ml)
- Flour: 2 cups (240 grams)
- Cheddar Cheese: 150 grams, grated
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to prepare your Easy Cheesy Zucchini Bake:
Preheat the Oven
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 200°C (392°F) to ensure it’s ready for baking. Lightly grease your baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
Mix the Vegetables
- Combine Vegetables: In a large bowl, toss together the grated zucchinis, chopped onion, grated carrot, diced red pepper, and parsley. Season with salt and black pepper, mixing thoroughly.
Prepare the Batter
- Beat Eggs: Crack the eggs into a separate bowl and beat them.
- Add Milk: Whisk in the milk.
- Incorporate Flour: Gradually sift in the flour, stirring consistently to avoid any lumps until you have a smooth, pourable batter.
Combine
- Mix Ingredients: Pour the egg and milk mixture into the bowl of seasoned vegetables. Mix well until every piece of vegetable is coated in the batter.
- Add Cheese: Stir in half of the grated cheddar cheese into the batter, saving the remainder for topping.
Bake
- Transfer to Dish: Transfer the mixture into your prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Initial Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 35 minutes.
Cheese Topping
- Add Cheese Topping: After the initial bake, sprinkle the rest of the cheddar cheese on top of the bake.
- Final Bake: Return the dish to the oven for another 15 minutes, or until the cheese is perfectly melted and golden.
Serve
- Cool and Slice: Allow the bake to cool slightly before slicing. Serve warm to enjoy the gooey cheese and soft, flavorful vegetables.
Tips for Success
- Uniform Grating: Ensure the vegetables are grated and chopped uniformly for consistent texture.
- Avoid Lumps: Gradually add the flour to the egg and milk mixture to avoid lumps in the batter.
- Cheese: Use high-quality cheddar cheese for the best flavor and melting consistency.
Health Benefits
This Easy Cheesy Zucchini Bake is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients:
- Rich in Vitamins: Zucchini, carrots, and red peppers are rich in vitamins A and C, which support immune health.
- High in Fiber: The vegetables provide dietary fiber, aiding in digestion and promoting fullness.
- Protein: Eggs and cheddar cheese add a good source of protein, essential for muscle repair and growth.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other types of cheese?
Yes, you can use any type of cheese you like. Mozzarella, Parmesan, or feta are great alternatives.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover zucchini bake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or corn to the mix.
Is there a substitute for milk?
You can use a dairy-free alternative like almond milk or oat milk if you prefer.
Conclusion
This Easy Cheesy Zucchini Bake is a delicious and nutritious dish that’s perfect for any meal. With its gooey cheese and flavorful vegetables, it’s sure to be a hit with your family and friends. Enjoy this simple and satisfying recipe, and make it a regular part of your meal rotation!
Read Also: Zucchini Casserole: Yummy Vegetable Dish in 30 Minutes