Zucchini Bake

Zucchini Bake is a delicious and nutritious dish that’s perfect for any meal of the day. Packed with grated zucchinis, carrots, onions, and red peppers, and topped with melty cheddar cheese, this bake is sure to be a hit with the whole family.

Why Make Zucchini Bake?

Zucchini Bake is a great way to use up any extra zucchinis you have on hand. It’s easy to make, packed with veggies, and can be customized with your favorite herbs and spices.

How to Make Zucchini Bake

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:
   • Start by preheating your oven to 200°C (392°F). Grease a baking dish with a bit of vegetable oil or line it with parchment paper.
2. Mix the Vegetables:
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the grated zucchinis, onion, carrot, red pepper, and parsley. Add salt and black pepper, mixing well to ensure the vegetables are evenly seasoned.
3. Prepare the Batter:
   • In another bowl, beat the eggs and then whisk in the milk. Gradually add the flour to this mixture, stirring continuously to avoid lumps, until a smooth batter forms.
4. Combine:
   • Pour the egg and flour batter into the bowl with the mixed vegetables. Stir until the vegetables are well coated with the batter.
5. Add Cheese:
   • Fold in half of the grated cheddar cheese into the mixture, saving the rest for topping later.
6. First Bake:
   • Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. Place in the preheated oven and bake for 35 minutes.
7. Add More Cheese and Bake Again:
   • After the first baking time, carefully remove the dish from the oven and sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese on top. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden.
8. Serve:
   • Let the zucchini bake cool slightly before cutting into pieces. Serve warm, and enjoy the melty cheese and tender vegetables in every bite.

Serving Suggestions

Enjoy this Zucchini Bake as a side dish or a light meal. It’s perfect for brunch, lunch, or dinner, and pairs well with a fresh salad or some crusty bread.

Storage Information

Store any leftover Zucchini Bake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

Some Techniques or Tips

• Make sure to squeeze out any excess moisture from the grated zucchinis and carrots to prevent the bake from becoming too watery.
• Feel free to customize the recipe by adding your favorite herbs and spices, such as garlic powder, thyme, or basil.

FAQs about Zucchini Bake

1. Can I use other vegetables in this recipe?

• Yes, you can use any vegetables you like in this bake. Bell peppers, mushrooms, spinach, or broccoli would all work well.

2. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

• Yes, you can prepare the batter and chop the vegetables ahead of time, then assemble and bake the dish when you’re ready to eat.

3. Can I freeze this Zucchini Bake?

• Yes, you can freeze this bake for up to 3 months. Let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing. Reheat in the oven until warmed through before serving.

RECIPE

Ingredients:

• 3 zucchinis, grated
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 1 carrot, grated
• 1 red pepper, finely diced
• Parsley, chopped (to taste)
• 3-4 tablespoons of vegetable oil (25 ml)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 3 eggs
• 1.5 cups milk (300 ml)
• 2 cups flour (240 grams)
• 150 grams cheddar cheese, grated

Preparation:

1. Preheat the Oven:
   • Start by preheating your oven to 200°C (392°F). Grease a baking dish with a bit of vegetable oil or line it with parchment paper.
2. Mix the Vegetables:
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the grated zucchinis, onion, carrot, red pepper, and parsley. Add salt and black pepper, mixing well to ensure the vegetables are evenly seasoned.
3. Prepare the Batter:
   • In another bowl, beat the eggs and then whisk in the milk. Gradually add the flour to this mixture, stirring continuously to avoid lumps, until a smooth batter forms.
4. Combine:
   • Pour the egg and flour batter into the bowl with the mixed vegetables. Stir until the vegetables are well coated with the batter.
5. Add Cheese:
   • Fold in half of the grated cheddar cheese into the mixture, saving the rest for topping later.
6. First Bake:
   • Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. Place in the preheated oven and bake for 35 minutes.
7. Add More Cheese and Bake Again:
   • After the first baking time, carefully remove the dish from the oven and sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese on top. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden.
8. Serve:
   • Let the zucchini bake cool slightly before cutting into pieces. Serve warm, and enjoy the melty cheese and tender vegetables in every bite.