Zucchini pie (pie with zucchini and feta)

Name: Zucchini pie (pie with zucchini and feta) - Maia N.
Ingredients: 500 g zucchini; 2 eggs; 250 g feta cheese; 1.5 cups flour; half a teaspoon baking powder; 1 cup milk; half a cup olive oil; half a grated onion; 1 teaspoon dried mint; pepper

Appetizers - Zucchini pie (pie with zucchini and feta) by Maia N. - Recipia

Kolokithopita – Zucchini and Feta Pie A zucchini and feta pie, known as Kolokithopita, is an excellent choice for any time of the day. This recipe is easy to prepare, quick, and versatile, making it perfect for a healthy snack or a savory appetizer at a meal with friends. Whether you choose to make it with pastry sheets or simplify it, as I usually do, you will be delighted by its Mediterranean flavor. Preparation time: 15 minutes Baking time: 45 minutes Total time: 1 hour Servings: 6 servings Ingredients: - 500 g zucchini - 2 eggs - 250 g feta cheese - 1 ½ cups flour - ½ teaspoon baking powder - 1 cup milk - ½ cup olive oil - ½ grated onion - 1 teaspoon dried mint - Pepper to taste Preparation: 1. Preparing the zucchini: Start by peeling the zucchini. Grate them and mix with a little salt. This step is essential as the salt will help the zucchini release water. Let them sit in a strainer for about 15-20 minutes. If you're in a hurry, you can gently press them with your hand to speed up the draining process. 2. Mixing the ingredients: In a large bowl, crack the two eggs and beat them well with a fork. Add the crumbled feta cheese (if you prefer a stronger taste, you can use aged feta), milk, and olive oil. Mix everything until well combined. 3. Incorporating the zucchini: Once the zucchini has drained, add it to the bowl with the egg and cheese mixture. Add the grated onion, dried mint, and pepper. Mix well to ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed. 4. Adding the flour: In another bowl, combine the flour with the baking powder. Then, add the flour mixture to the zucchini mixture and stir gently. The flour will give the pie a fluffy and airy texture. 5. Baking the pie: Preheat the oven to 180-200°C. Grease a baking dish with oil and sprinkle a little flour to prevent sticking. Pour the mixture into the dish and level the surface with a spatula. 6. Baking time: Place the dish in the preheated oven and let it bake for about 45 minutes, or until it becomes golden and crispy on top. Check if it’s done by inserting a toothpick in the center – if it comes out clean, the pie is ready. 7. Cooling and serving: After removing it from the oven, let it cool for 10 minutes before cutting. This step is important as it allows the flavors to settle. Practical tips: - Serving: The pie can be served warm or at room temperature. It is delicious alongside a fresh green salad or with Greek yogurt for an extra touch of freshness. - Variations: You can add different herbs, such as dill or basil, to change the flavor of the pie. You can also try replacing some of the feta with goat cheese for a stronger taste. - Calories and nutritional benefits: A serving of Kolokithopita has approximately 300-350 calories, depending on the ingredients used. Zucchini is an excellent source of vitamins and minerals, while feta cheese adds protein and calcium. Personal story: I remember how, in my childhood, my mother would prepare Kolokithopita every summer when zucchini were abundant in the garden. This pie became a tradition in our family, and its aroma reminds me of the moments spent together. With every guest, the pie was a true highlight, and making it was an opportunity to share stories and create beautiful memories. Frequently asked questions: 1. Can I use frozen zucchini? It is recommended to use fresh zucchini for better texture, but if you are in a hurry, frozen zucchini can be an alternative. Make sure to let them thaw and drain well before using. 2. How can I make the pie less dense? You can reduce the amount of flour or add more milk to achieve a lighter texture. You can also experiment with different types of flour, such as whole wheat or oat flour. 3. Is it possible to make the pie without eggs? Yes, you can use an egg substitute, such as a mixture of flaxseeds and water or chia, to maintain the consistency of the mixture. Now that you have all the necessary information, all that’s left is to get started and enjoy this simple and delicious recipe! Kolokithopita is a culinary delight that will please your senses and bring a touch of joy to every meal. Bon appétit!

Zucchini pie (pie with zucchini and feta)

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