Baked zucchini

Zucchini with Cheese - A Simple and Delicious Recipe

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 60 minutes
Total time: 75 minutes
Number of servings: 4

The history of zucchini in gastronomy is fascinating, as they have been used for centuries in various dishes. Zucchini are not only versatile but also very healthy, being rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. This zucchini and cheese recipe is perfect for a light dinner or as an appetizer for a festive meal. With a creamy texture and delicious taste, this combination of zucchini and cheese will delight everyone's taste buds.

Ingredients:
- 2 medium zucchinis
- 2 large eggs
- 200 ml sour cream
- 100 g flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 50 g melted butter
- Salt to taste
- 1 teaspoon curry (optional but recommended for an extra flavor)
- 150 g feta cheese or grated cheese
- Butter for greasing the baking dish

Step by step:

1. Preparing the zucchinis
Start by peeling the zucchinis. Use a sharp knife to remove the skin, then wash them well under cold running water. Once peeled, slice them into very thin rounds (about 3-5 mm). If desired, you can use a mandoline to achieve uniform and thin slices. This will help with even baking and will give an attractive appearance to the dish.

2. Preparing the mixture
In a large bowl, whisk the eggs with a whisk or fork until frothy. Add the flour, baking powder, salt, and curry. Mix well until combined. Then, pour in the melted butter and sour cream. Continue mixing until you achieve a uniform mixture without lumps. The secret to a successful recipe is to ensure that all ingredients are well integrated, so take your time with this step.

3. Mixing the zucchinis with the mixture
Add the zucchini rounds to the bowl with the mixture. Use a spatula to gently mix, ensuring that all slices are well coated with the batter. Here you can play a bit with flavors; if you like garlic, you can add a few crushed garlic cloves to the mix.

4. Preparing the baking dish
Preheat the oven to 180°C (medium to high heat). Grease a baking dish with butter so that the zucchinis do not stick. You can use a ceramic dish or a classic metal baking tray, depending on your preferences.

5. Assembling and baking
Pour the zucchini and mixture into the prepared dish. Spread it evenly with a spatula. On top, add the remaining sour cream (100 ml) and the grated cheese. This will form a golden and delicious crust during baking. Bake in the oven for about 60 minutes or until the zucchinis are soft and the cheese on top has turned golden.

6. Serving
Once the dish is ready, let it cool for a few minutes before cutting. Serve warm, alongside a fresh salad or as a side dish with a roast. These zucchini with cheese pair perfectly with a glass of dry white wine or fresh lemonade to balance the richness of the flavor.

Practical tips:
- If you want to add a bit of complexity, you can use feta cheese instead of feta for a saltier and more intense flavor.
- You can experiment with different spices, such as oregano or basil, to customize the recipe to your liking.
- Zucchini can be replaced with other vegetables, such as eggplant or potatoes, for a different version of this dish.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use frozen zucchini? While it is recommended to use fresh zucchini for optimal texture, you can use frozen zucchini, but make sure to thaw and drain them well before adding them to the mixture.
- How can I make the dish lighter? You can reduce the amount of sour cream and cheese to make a lighter version, but the taste will be different.
- What other recipes pair well with zucchini with cheese? These zucchinis are delicious alongside a roast chicken or turkey, but they can also be a great snack with a tomato and cucumber salad.

Nutritional benefits:
Zucchini are low in calories, making them an excellent choice for those looking to maintain their weight. They contain vitamins A, C, and K, as well as minerals like potassium and magnesium. Cheese provides protein and calcium, contributing to a balanced diet.

In conclusion, the zucchini with cheese recipe is a fantastic choice for a healthy and hearty meal. With simple steps and accessible ingredients, you will create a dish that will impress both family and friends. So, don’t hesitate to try this recipe and enjoy its delightful flavors!