Zucchini pie with cheese

Zucchini pie with cheese - a delicious and comforting recipe

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 45-60 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Number of servings: 4-6

If you are looking for a quick and tasty recipe, zucchini pie with cheese is the perfect choice. This pie is a delicious combination of fresh zucchini, telemea cheese, and parmesan, all in a golden and crispy crust. It is ideal as an appetizer, main dish, or snack.

Let’s explore this simple yet flavorful recipe together, which is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen!

Necessary ingredients:

- 1 large zucchini (approximately 500g)
- 200g cow telemea cheese (or feta cheese for a stronger taste)
- 50g grated parmesan
- 1 egg
- 1 tablespoon of flour
- 50g butter (for added flavor)
- Salt and pepper to taste

The history of zucchini pie:

Zucchini pies are an integral part of traditional cuisine, with deep roots in many cultures. They are often prepared during the summer season when zucchinis are at their peak freshness. The zucchini, a versatile vegetable, has gained popularity due to its delicate texture and subtle flavor, which blends perfectly with various ingredients, especially cheeses.

Preparing the ingredients:

1. Grating: Start by washing the zucchini well and cleaning it of impurities. Use a large grater to grate it. It is important to choose a fresh, firm zucchini to achieve a tasty pie.

2. Squeezing: After grating the zucchini, place it in a clean towel and squeeze it well to remove excess water. This step is essential to avoid the pie becoming too wet.

3. Mixing: In a large bowl, add the grated zucchini, beaten egg, salt, pepper, and flour. Mix well until the ingredients are fully integrated.

4. Telemea: In another bowl, grate the telemea cheese. If you prefer a stronger taste, you can opt for feta cheese. This will add a salty and creamy note to your pie.

Assembling the pie:

1. Preparing the baking dish: Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). In a heatproof dish, melt the butter and coat the bottom and sides well. Then, place a piece of parchment paper to prevent sticking.

2. Zucchini layer: Pour half of the zucchini mixture into the prepared dish and level it evenly.

3. Cheese: Sprinkle the grated telemea over the zucchini layer. This layer of cheese will add delicious flavor and creamy texture.

4. Finalizing the mixture: Add the remaining zucchini mixture over the cheese layer and smooth the surface. Grate a little parmesan on top to achieve a golden and crispy crust.

5. Baking: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45-60 minutes or until the pie is golden and firm. Check the pie with a knife: if it comes out clean, the pie is ready.

Serving the pie:

Let the pie cool slightly before cutting it. You can serve the pie warm or at room temperature, alongside a fresh salad or a garlic yogurt sauce, which will perfectly complement the flavors. If you like to experiment, add some fresh herbs like dill or parsley to the zucchini mixture for an extra touch of freshness.

Useful tips:

- Variations: You can replace telemea with goat cheese or mozzarella for a different taste. Additionally, add vegetables like carrots or onions if you want a richer pie.
- Calories and nutritional benefits: This pie contains approximately 250-300 calories per serving, depending on the ingredients used. Zucchini is an excellent source of vitamins and minerals, being low in calories and high in fiber. Telemea adds protein and calcium, contributing to a balanced diet.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use small zucchinis?
Yes, small zucchinis are just as good, but make sure to choose young ones with a finer texture.

2. How can I store the pie?
The pie can be stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 days, covered with plastic wrap. You can reheat it in the oven to bring back the crispy texture.

3. Can I freeze the pie?
Yes, you can freeze the pie before baking or after it has completely cooled. Make sure to wrap it well in plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn.

In conclusion, zucchini pie with cheese is an easy-to-make, versatile, and flavorful recipe. Whether you serve it at a family dinner, a meal with friends, or simply to treat yourself, this zucchini pie will bring smiles to everyone’s faces. So don’t hesitate to try it and share the joy of cooking with your loved ones! Enjoy your meal!