Zucchini Bake
Servings: 6 | Total Time: 50 minutes
Introduction:
If you’re looking for a simple and delicious vegetable dish that’s perfect as a side or even a light main course, this Zucchini Bake is sure to become a family favorite. It combines the mild, savory flavor of zucchini with the richness of mozzarella and parmesan cheeses, a touch of oregano, and fresh basil, all bound together with eggs for a hearty, satisfying meal. With a prep time of just 15 minutes and a cook time of 35 minutes, you can easily have this comforting dish on the table in under an hour. Let’s dive into this easy-to-make recipe, which is ideal for those busy weeknights or any time you’re craving a cheesy, veggie-packed treat.
Zucchini Bake Recipe
Preparation Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 35 minutes | Total Time: 50 minutes
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Zucchini | 4 medium |
| Mozzarella Cheese | 2 cups |
| Parmesan Cheese | 2 tablespoons |
| Onion (finely chopped) | 1 medium |
| Eggs | ½ to 1 large |
| Oregano | 1 teaspoon |
| Basil (fresh or dried) | 1 tablespoon |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 272.9 kcal |
| Fat Content | 21.4 g |
| Saturated Fat | 7.5 g |
| Cholesterol | 172 mg |
| Sodium | 315.3 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 6.6 g |
| Fiber | 1.3 g |
| Sugar | 3.2 g |
| Protein | 14.4 g |
Instructions:
-
Preheat the Oven:
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This allows it to reach the perfect temperature for baking your zucchini bake. -
Prepare the Zucchini:
Wash the zucchini thoroughly. Slice them into thin rounds or half-moons (whichever you prefer), then set them aside. If you’d like to remove excess moisture from the zucchini, place the slices in a colander, sprinkle them with a little salt, and let them sit for about 10 minutes. Afterward, pat them dry with a paper towel. -
Combine the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced zucchini, mozzarella cheese, parmesan cheese, finely chopped onion, eggs, oregano, and basil. Stir everything together until the zucchini is well coated with the cheese and herbs. If you prefer a creamier texture, you can add a tablespoon of heavy cream or sour cream to the mixture. -
Assemble the Bake:
Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter. Transfer the zucchini mixture into the dish, spreading it out evenly. -
Bake:
Place the dish into the preheated oven and bake for about 25 to 35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the zucchini is tender. You can check for doneness by inserting a fork into the zucchini – it should be easily pierced. If you want a slightly crispy top, you can broil it for the last 2-3 minutes. -
Serve:
Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes. Serve warm as a side dish, or pair it with your favorite protein for a complete meal. Enjoy!
Why You’ll Love This Zucchini Bake
This Zucchini Bake is not only incredibly easy to prepare, but it’s also versatile. You can enjoy it as a low-carb alternative to lasagna, a vegetarian-friendly meal, or simply a side dish to complement a variety of main courses. With its balance of cheese and zucchini, it’s both filling and flavorful. Whether you’re looking to satisfy a craving for cheesy comfort food or sneak in some extra vegetables, this recipe ticks all the boxes.
Tips and Variations:
- Add Protein: For a more filling dish, consider adding cooked chicken, turkey, or ground beef to the mixture. Just layer it with the zucchini and cheese.
- Herb Variations: Feel free to experiment with different herbs, such as thyme, rosemary, or Italian seasoning, to give this dish a unique twist.
- Make it Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it an excellent option for anyone following a gluten-free diet.
- Cheese Substitutions: If you’re not a fan of mozzarella, try using gouda, cheddar, or even a blend of different cheeses for a more flavorful dish.
Final Thoughts
This Zucchini Bake from lovewithrecipes.com is the perfect way to showcase the mild, versatile flavor of zucchini while incorporating the richness of cheeses and fresh herbs. Whether you’re preparing it as a quick weeknight dinner or as a side for a holiday meal, it’s sure to be a hit with everyone at the table. So, gather your ingredients, preheat the oven, and let the cheesy goodness begin!
