Appetizer cake with chicken and olives

Savory Chicken and Olive Cake – A Delicious Treat for Any Occasion

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 60 minutes
Total time: 80 minutes
Number of servings: 8

In a culinary world full of sophisticated recipes, the savory chicken and olive cake proves to be an excellent choice for any meal, whether it's a brunch with friends or a family dinner. This is not just a simple appetizer, but an explosion of flavors and textures that combine perfectly to create a memorable culinary experience.

The history of this savory cake is simple yet charming. Its origins lie in the tradition of transforming simple ingredients into a delicious dish that is easy to serve and enjoy. Each household began to create its own variations, adding seasonal or available ingredients, making each cake a unique creation.

Ingredients:

- 4 large eggs
- 4 tablespoons of flour
- 1 pinch of salt
- 1 pinch of baking powder
- 500 g minced chicken
- 100 g cheese (or preferred cheese), diced
- 1 bell pepper, cleaned and diced
- 1 red onion, finely chopped
- 1 small zucchini, grated and well-drained
- 100 g pitted olives, sliced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- A few sprigs of fresh dill, finely chopped
- A few sprigs of fresh parsley, finely chopped

Preparation Instructions:

1. Preparing the Ingredients: Start by gathering all the necessary ingredients. Make sure you have a large bowl for mixing and a loaf pan lined with parchment paper. This will facilitate both the transfer of the cake from the pan and the subsequent cleanup.

2. Beating the Eggs: In a large bowl, beat the eggs together with a pinch of salt. Use a whisk or mixer to achieve a smooth mixture. This step is essential for giving the cake a fluffy texture.

3. Mixing the Dry Ingredients: Add the flour and baking powder to the beaten eggs. It is important to mix gently with a spatula or whisk to avoid lumps. Once the ingredients are well incorporated, move on to the next step.

4. Preparing the Vegetables: Wash and chop the vegetables. The bell pepper should be kept in larger cubes to add a pleasant contrast in texture, while the onion and zucchini should be finely chopped. The zucchini can be grated and drained to avoid excess moisture in the cake.

5. Incorporating the Ingredients: Add the chopped vegetables, diced cheese, olives, and herbs (oregano, dill, parsley) to the egg mixture. Gently mix, ensuring that all ingredients are well distributed.

6. Adding the Meat: Finally, add the minced chicken. Mix again, making sure everything is well combined. It is important that each bite contains a balanced combination of meat and vegetables.

7. Transferring to the Pan: Pour the mixture into the prepared pan, being careful not to overfill it (leave a little room for rising). You can decorate the top of the cake with slices of bell pepper and a few sprigs of fresh dill for an attractive appearance.

8. Baking: Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. Bake the cake for about 60 minutes, or until golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. It is important not to open the oven door in the first 30 minutes of baking to prevent the cake from collapsing.

9. Cooling: Once the cake is done, take it out of the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. This step will help maintain its fluffy texture.

10. Serving: Once cooled, the cake can be sliced and served as an appetizer or snack. You can pair it with a fresh salad or a garlic yogurt sauce for a refreshing contrast. It is delicious both warm and cold.

Practical Tips:

- Ingredient Variations: You can experiment with different types of minced meat (for example, turkey or pork) or add other vegetables like carrots or spinach to diversify the recipe.
- Storing the Cake: This savory cake keeps well in the refrigerator for 2-3 days, covered with plastic wrap. It can also be frozen, sliced, and enjoyed later.
- Frequently Asked Questions:
- *Can I use free-range eggs?* Of course! Free-range eggs will add a richer flavor to the cake.
- *What other flavors can I add?* You can try spices like turmeric or chili for a spicier taste.
- *Is it suitable for festive meals?* Absolutely! This cake can be an excellent choice for buffets or festive meals due to its attractive appearance and delicious taste.

Calories and Nutritional Benefits:

This recipe has approximately 250-300 calories per serving, depending on the specific ingredients used. The savory cake is a good source of protein from the meat, eggs, and cheese, while the vegetables add essential vitamins and fiber for a balanced diet.

I warmly recommend trying this savory chicken and olive cake recipe; not only is it simple to make, but it will add a burst of flavor to any meal. Whether served warm or cold, this cake will surely become one of your favorites! Enjoy!