Discover the ease and deliciousness of our Zucchini Casserole, a dish so good it’ll have you running to the kitchen day after day! Ready in just 45 minutes, this vibrant mix of zucchini, colorful peppers, and creamy egg filling is perfect for a quick dinner that doesn’t skimp on flavor.
Ingredients:
- 1 zucchini, sliced
- Salt, to taste
- Olive oil & Sunflower oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 1 carrot, chopped
- 1 yellow bell pepper, chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- Black pepper, to taste
- 3 eggs
- 300 ml milk
- 30 ml olive oil
- 5 tablespoons flour
- 10 grams baking powder
- 1 clove of garlic, minced
- Vegetable fat, for greasing
- Dill, chopped
- 150 grams cheese, grated
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon yogurt
- Lemon juice, a squeeze
- Green onions, chopped
Instructions:
- Prep: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Sprinkle sliced zucchini with salt and set aside to draw out water. In a skillet, heat olive and sunflower oils over medium heat. Sauté onions until translucent.
- Cook Veggies: Add chopped carrots and bell peppers to the skillet, season with salt and pepper, and sauté under cover for about 5-7 minutes. Press the zucchini slices between paper towels to remove excess water, then add to the skillet. Continue cooking for another 15 minutes.
- Prepare Egg Mixture: In a mixing bowl, whisk eggs, milk, and olive oil. Gradually incorporate flour, baking powder, minced garlic, and dill.
- Bake: Grease a baking dish with vegetable fat, pour in the veggie mix, then the egg mixture. Top with grated cheese. Bake for 35-40 minutes until golden.
- Make Sauce: Combine mayonnaise, yogurt, lemon juice, black pepper, and green onions.
- Serve: Let the casserole cool slightly before serving with the sauce.
Serving Suggestions:
Zucchini Casserole Delight is versatile and can be served in various ways to cater to different tastes and occasions. Here are some thoughtful ideas to elevate this dish:
- Create a Buffet: Serve this casserole as part of a buffet with other dishes such as roasted chicken, a variety of salads, and a selection of grains like bulgur or couscous. This allows guests to mix and match flavors according to their preferences.
- Accompany with Proteins: For those who prefer a more protein-rich meal, accompany the casserole with grilled chicken breast, baked salmon, or a bean salad. These protein sources complement the lightness of the zucchini while adding satisfying substance.
- Pair with Wine: Pair this dish with a light white wine such as Pinot Grigio or a Sauvignon Blanc. The crispness of the wine pairs beautifully with the freshness of the zucchini and the richness of the cheese.
- Add a Dip: Serve with a side of creamy tzatziki or a spicy tomato salsa to dip or drizzle over the casserole for added flavor.
- Make It Kid-Friendly: For a kid-friendly version, serve it with a side of homemade garlic bread or mashed potatoes, which are always a hit with the younger crowd.
- Seasonal Variations: In the autumn months, consider adding slices of butternut squash or pumpkin to the layers for a seasonal twist that brings a sweet depth to the dish.
- Garnish Galore: Garnish with aromatic herbs such as dill, chives, or cilantro to introduce a new dimension of freshness that contrasts the creamy, baked texture of the casserole.
Nutrition:
This zucchini casserole is not only delightful in taste but also packed with nutritional benefits. It’s low in calories but high in fiber, thanks to the zucchini and bell peppers. The eggs and cheese provide a good source of protein and calcium, making it a balanced dish. Each serving contains approximately:
- Calories: 250
- Protein: 12g
- Fiber: 3g
- Fat: 15g (with an option to reduce fat by using less cheese or substituting with low-fat cheese)
- Carbohydrates: 18g
Tips for the Perfect Casserole
- Squeeze Out Water: Ensure to squeeze as much water as possible from the zucchini to prevent the casserole from becoming soggy.
- Layering: Arrange the zucchini in a uniform layer to ensure that it cooks evenly.
- Cheese Topping: Add the cheese in the last 10 minutes of baking to prevent it from burning and to ensure a golden, bubbly topping.