Welcome to the world of culinary delight, where we explore the exquisite fusion of flavors and textures in every dish. Today, let’s embark on a journey to create a delectable Zucchini & Feta Gratin that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving for more. This recipe is perfect for lunch or as a satisfying snack, blending the freshness of zucchini with the creamy richness of feta cheese, all nestled on a bed of cooked long-grain rice, seasoned to perfection with a hint of nutmeg.
With just a total time of 1 hour, including 20 minutes of prep and 40 minutes of cooking, this recipe is not only easy but also incredibly flavorful. So let’s dive into the culinary magic and uncover the secrets of this mouthwatering dish.
Ingredients:
- 2 1/2 cups cooked long-grain rice
- 1 cup feta cheese, divided
- 4 zucchinis
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 3 eggs
Instructions:
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Preheat Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit, ensuring that it’s nice and toasty for our gratin.
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Prepare Rice and Cheese Mixture: In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked long-grain rice with 1/2 cup of crumbled feta cheese. Mix them together until well combined, creating a flavorful base for our gratin.
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Layering: Take a 10-inch quiche dish or pie plate and coat it with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Press the rice and cheese mixture into the dish, creating an even layer at the bottom.
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Prepare Zucchini: Slice the zucchinis into thin rounds and steam them for about 5 minutes until they are tender but still firm. Once steamed, gently press the zucchini slices between paper towels to remove any excess moisture.
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Season Zucchini: In another bowl, combine the steamed zucchini slices with the remaining 1/2 cup of crumbled feta cheese. Season with salt, pepper, and a touch of ground nutmeg, infusing the zucchini with irresistible flavor.
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Arrange Zucchini Mixture: Spread the zucchini and feta mixture evenly over the rice layer in the dish, creating a beautiful mosaic of colors and flavors.
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Prepare Egg Mixture: In a separate bowl, crack open the eggs and beat them well with a wire whisk until they are frothy and well combined. This egg mixture will bind our gratin together, adding richness and depth of flavor.
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Bake: Carefully pour the beaten egg mixture over the zucchini layer, ensuring that it covers the entire surface evenly. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake at 375 degrees Fahrenheit for approximately 40 minutes, or until the gratin is set and golden brown on top.
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Serve and Enjoy: Once baked to perfection, remove the gratin from the oven and let it cool slightly before slicing into generous portions. Serve it warm, allowing the creamy feta cheese to melt into the tender zucchini and rice, creating a symphony of flavors with every bite.
Nutritional Information:
- Calories: 151.3 per serving
- Fat Content: 6.1g
- Saturated Fat Content: 3.5g
- Cholesterol Content: 96mg
- Sodium Content: 387.6mg
- Carbohydrate Content: 16.9g
- Fiber Content: 0.9g
- Sugar Content: 2g
- Protein Content: 7.1g
Recipe Tips:
- Feel free to customize this gratin by adding your favorite herbs or vegetables for an extra burst of flavor.
- If you’re not a fan of feta cheese, you can substitute it with goat cheese or shredded mozzarella for a different twist.
- Make sure to drain the zucchini well after steaming to prevent the gratin from becoming too watery.
With its creamy texture, vibrant colors, and irresistible flavors, this Zucchini & Feta Gratin is sure to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire. Whether you’re hosting a potluck, enjoying a cozy dinner at home, or simply looking for a satisfying snack, this dish is guaranteed to impress. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and let’s indulge in the culinary magic of homemade goodness. Bon appรฉtit!
