Baked zucchini and feta meatballs

The zucchini and feta appetizer is an excellent choice for any occasion, whether it's a family dinner, a party with friends, or simply a healthy snack. These delicious patties are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, and the feta cheese adds a unique flavor that will delight everyone's taste buds. Additionally, they are easy and quick to prepare, and the ingredients are accessible and full of nutrients.

Total preparation time: 45 minutes
Cooking time: 25 minutes
Number of servings: 9 large patties

Ingredients needed for the zucchini and feta patties:

- 2 small zucchinis (preferably yellow, but green ones are just as good)
- 1 medium onion
- 2 eggs
- 50 g feta cheese
- 60 g breadcrumbs
- Salt and pepper to taste
- A few fresh basil leaves

Step by step:

1. Preparing the oven and ingredients:
Start by preheating the oven to 200°C. This step is essential as it ensures that the patties will bake evenly and become crispy.

2. Washing and preparing the zucchinis:
Wash the zucchinis well under running water, and if you’ve used fresh yellow zucchinis from the farm, there’s no need to peel them, as the skin adds color and nutrients. Cut off the ends of the zucchinis and grate them coarsely. This step will help release the juice from the zucchinis, which is essential for the final texture.

3. Preparing the onion:
Peel the onion and, like the zucchinis, grate it coarsely. The onion will add a sweet and aromatic flavor to your patties.

4. Salting and draining the zucchinis and onion:
In a large bowl, add the grated zucchinis and onion, sprinkle with coarse salt, and let the mixture sit for 10-15 minutes. The salt will help extract excess water. After they have sat, use a spoon to press the mixture, extracting as much liquid as possible. This step is crucial to avoid wet patties.

5. Mixing the ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the drained zucchinis and onion with the finely chopped fresh basil, crumbled feta cheese, breadcrumbs, and the 2 eggs. Mix well to achieve a homogeneous mixture. Add salt and pepper to taste. Fresh basil not only adds flavor but also a note of freshness.

6. Forming the patties:
Using wet hands, form medium-sized patties. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving a little space between them for even baking.

7. Baking the patties:
Place the tray in the preheated oven and bake the patties for 20-25 minutes, turning them halfway through for even browning. You will notice how the patties become golden and crispy.

8. Serving:
The zucchini and feta patties can be served warm or cold. If you choose to serve them warm, accompany them with a fresh green salad or a garlic yogurt sauce. If opting for the cold version, they make a perfect appetizer alongside a spicy tomato sauce or garlic mayonnaise.

Useful tips:

- Variations of ingredients: You can experiment with different types of cheese, such as ricotta or goat cheese, to achieve varied flavors. Additionally, adding spices like oregano or dill can provide an even more interesting taste.

- What to do with leftovers: If there are leftover patties, they store well in the refrigerator for 2-3 days and can be reheated in the oven or microwave.

- Nutritional benefits: Zucchinis are rich in vitamins and minerals, being an excellent source of vitamin C, potassium, and fiber. Feta cheese adds calcium and protein, while basil contributes valuable antioxidants.

Frequently asked questions:

- Can I use frozen zucchinis? Yes, but make sure to thaw and drain them well before using, to avoid excess water.

- What sauces pair best? A yogurt sauce with dill or a tartar sauce are excellent choices. Additionally, a spicy tomato sauce can add a flavorful touch.

In conclusion, the zucchini and feta patties are not only a simple and quick recipe but also a versatile appetizer that can be adapted according to your preferences. So, don’t hesitate to try them and bring your own contributions based on your tastes! Enjoy!