Vegetable cake

Vegetable loaf – a savory and healthy recipe

Preparation times:
- Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Baking time: 40-50 minutes
- Total time: 55-65 minutes
- Number of servings: 8

The history of the vegetable loaf is one filled with culinary creativity. This recipe evolved from the desire to transform simple ingredients into tasty and nutritious dishes, providing a versatile option for everyday meals or special occasions. The vegetable loaf is not just a delicious appetizer but also an excellent choice for a healthy breakfast or a snack between meals.

Necessary ingredients:
- 125 g flour
- 1 large egg
- 50 g well-drained cottage cheese
- 50 g grated cheese
- 50 g natural yogurt
- 1 red bell pepper, peeled and diced
- 1 bunch of green onions, finely chopped
- 1 small zucchini, peeled and diced
- 30 ml milk
- 1 sachet of baking powder (about 7 g)
- 2 tablespoons of butter, plus 1 tablespoon for greasing
- Salt, to taste

Preparing the vegetable loaf is simple and satisfying. Here’s how you can achieve a perfect result!

Step 1: Preparing the ingredients
Start by preparing all the ingredients. Wash the vegetables well – the bell pepper, green onions, and zucchini. Cut them into small cubes so that they integrate perfectly into the loaf mixture. This will not only enhance the appearance but also the final taste of the dish.

Step 2: Mixing the wet ingredients
In a large bowl, beat the egg well using a whisk or a fork. Gradually add the oil, milk, and yogurt, continuously mixing to achieve a homogeneous mixture. These wet ingredients will give the loaf a fluffy and moist texture.

Step 3: Incorporating the dry ingredients
In another bowl, combine the flour with the baking powder and a pinch of salt. These dry ingredients are essential to ensure even baking and an airy texture. Sifting the flour also helps eliminate any lumps.

Step 4: Combining the ingredients
Add the dry ingredient mixture to the bowl with the wet ingredients, mixing gently to avoid lumps. Once the mixture is homogeneous, incorporate the cottage cheese and grated cheese. These will add a rich flavor and creamy consistency.

Step 5: Adding the vegetables
Finally, add the diced vegetables – bell pepper, zucchini, and green onions. Gently mix to ensure the vegetables are evenly distributed in the mixture. This step will turn the loaf into a colorful and nutrient-rich dish.

Step 6: Preparing the baking tray
Preheat the oven to 180°C (moderate to low heat). Grease a loaf pan with butter and dust it with flour. This will prevent the loaf from sticking and allow you to easily remove it after baking.

Step 7: Baking the loaf
Pour the mixture into the prepared pan, leveling the surface with a spatula. Place a tablespoon of butter on top to add even more flavor. Bake the loaf in the preheated oven for 40-50 minutes. To check if it’s done, use the toothpick test – if it comes out clean, the loaf is perfectly baked.

Step 8: Serving the loaf
Once the loaf is baked, let it cool in the pan for a few minutes, then transfer it to a rack to cool completely. You can serve the loaf sliced, on a platter, alongside other appetizers or simply with a fresh salad. It’s an excellent choice for breakfast or a healthy snack.

Nutritional details:
The vegetable loaf is a healthy option, rich in vitamins and minerals due to the vegetables used. Each serving has approximately 150-200 calories, depending on the specific ingredients used. The cottage cheese and cheese add essential proteins, while the vegetables contribute fiber and antioxidants.

Useful tips:
- You can experiment with different vegetables, such as carrots, pumpkin, or spinach, to vary the taste and add nutrients.
- If you want a spicier loaf, you can add a few slices of chili pepper.
- The vegetable loaf keeps well in the fridge, making it an excellent choice for meal prep.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use frozen vegetables?
Yes, you can use frozen vegetables, but make sure to thaw and drain them well before adding them to the mixture.

2. What can I use instead of cottage cheese?
You can use ricotta or feta cheese for a different flavor.

3. How can I make the loaf moister?
Make sure not to overbake the loaf and add an extra tablespoon of yogurt or milk if you want a moister texture.

This is a vegetable loaf that is not only easy to prepare but also offers a wide range of flavors and textures. I encourage you to try it and customize it to your taste. It can become a family favorite, perfect for any occasion!