Indulge in the delightful blend of tender zucchini slices, enriched with a crust of melted cheeses and seasoned breadcrumbs. This dish brings a symphony of textures and flavors, making it a standout recipe for any meal. Whether you’re seeking a lighter alternative to meat or simply a delicious way to prepare vegetables, these Cheesy Baked Zucchini Rounds offer a satisfying crunch and cheesy goodness that pairs perfectly with the creamy, herb-infused yogurt sauce.
Crafted with care and bursting with flavor, this recipe elevates the humble zucchini to new heights. The golden-brown crust of cheese and breadcrumbs provides the perfect contrast to the soft, juicy zucchini base, creating a dish that is as visually appealing as it is tasty. It’s a versatile recipe that can be adapted for any occasion, from a family dinner to a casual get-together with friends. Serve it hot for a dish that is sure to impress and satisfy your guests’ palates.
Full Recipe:
- Ingredients:
- 3 zucchini
- 5 grams salt
- 5 grams black pepper
- 5 grams red pepper
- Vegetable fat (such as oil or margarine)
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 1 carrot, grated
- 3 eggs
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
- Oregano
- 40 grams breadcrumbs
- 50 grams hard cheese, grated
- 100 grams mozzarella cheese, grated
- For the Yogurt Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
- Garlic, minced
- Dill, chopped
- Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Wash the zucchini and slice them into rounds.
- In a bowl, combine the sliced zucchini with salt, black pepper, and red pepper. Toss to coat the zucchini evenly.
- Place the seasoned zucchini rounds on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Drizzle some vegetable fat over the zucchini.
- Bake the zucchini for about 15 minutes or until they are tender and slightly golden.
- While the zucchini is baking, heat some vegetable fat in a skillet and sauté the finely chopped onion until translucent. Add the grated carrot and cook until softened.
- In a bowl, beat the eggs with salt, black pepper, and oregano. Stir in the sautéed onion and carrot.
- Mix breadcrumbs, grated hard cheese, and grated mozzarella cheese in a separate bowl.
- Remove the zucchini from the oven and let them cool slightly.
- Spoon the egg and vegetable mixture onto each zucchini round, spreading it evenly.
- Sprinkle the breadcrumb and cheese mixture over the top.
- Bake for an additional 45 minutes or until the topping is golden brown and crispy.
- For the sauce, combine Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, minced garlic, and chopped dill in a bowl. Mix well.
- Serve the baked zucchini hot with the yogurt sauce
- Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 60 minutes | Total Time: 80 minutes | Kcal: 320 kcal | Servings: 4
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Health Benefits: Zucchini is a powerhouse of nutritional benefits. It’s low in calories but high in essential nutrients like potassium, manganese, and antioxidants. It contributes to healthy digestion and may help reduce blood sugar levels.
- Ease of Preparation: This recipe requires minimal prep and uses ingredients commonly found in any pantry, making it ideal for busy weeknights or impromptu dinner parties.
- Versatility: Whether served as a main course or a side dish, these zucchini rounds can adapt to any meal setting. They’re also great for customizing; add mushrooms, bell peppers, or different cheeses to suit your taste.
Cooking Tips
- Choosing the Right Zucchini: Look for medium-sized zucchini that are firm and free from blemishes. Smaller zucchini tend to be more flavorful and less watery.
- Getting the Perfect Texture: To avoid soggy zucchini rounds, ensure that your oven is properly preheated and that you bake the zucchini on a high heat for the first stage of cooking. This helps to evaporate some of the natural moisture in the zucchini.
- Cheese Varieties: While the recipe calls for hard cheese and mozzarella, experimenting with other types like sharp cheddar, Gruyère, or even a sprinkle of blue cheese can add a new depth of flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these Cheesy Baked Zucchini Rounds fresh out of the oven to enjoy their crispy, golden texture. They pair wonderfully with a light, crisp salad or a hearty grain like quinoa or farro for a more filling meal. The included yogurt sauce can be enhanced with lemon zest or a sprinkle of chili flakes for an extra kick.
Make Ahead
The zucchini rounds can be prepared ahead of time and refrigerated, then baked just before serving to maintain their crispiness. The yogurt sauce also keeps well in the fridge, its flavors melding beautifully over time.
This dish is more than just food; it’s a celebration of simplicity and flavor. It’s perfect for those who want to enjoy a delicious, guilt-free meal that doesn’t compromise on taste. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a cooking novice, these Cheesy Baked Zucchini Rounds will bring joy and nutrition to your dining table.
Nutritional Spotlight
One of the most appealing aspects of the Cheesy Baked Zucchini Rounds is their nutritional profile. Each serving is not only a delight for the taste buds but also a boon for your health. Zucchini is low in fat and high in fiber, which promotes satiety and aids in weight management. Additionally, the cheeses used are excellent sources of calcium and protein, supporting bone health and muscle repair. By incorporating this dish into your meals, you’re opting for a balance of flavor and nutritional benefits, making it suitable for a variety of dietary needs.
How to Involve the Family
Cooking can be a fun and educational activity for the entire family, and this recipe offers a perfect opportunity to get everyone involved. Children can help by:
- Washing and slicing the zucchini under supervision.
- Mixing the cheeses and breadcrumbs.
- Layering the zucchini rounds with the cheese and breadcrumb mixture. This not only makes the preparation process more engaging but also helps children learn valuable cooking skills and the importance of healthy eating habits.
Conclusion
The Cheesy Baked Zucchini Rounds recipe exemplifies how simple ingredients can be transformed into a sophisticated and delicious dish. It’s a testament to the flexibility of zucchini and the universal appeal of melted cheese. Whether you’re looking to impress guests, make a quick family dinner, or introduce more vegetables into your diet, this recipe is sure to satisfy.