Potatoes and zucchini with cheese baked

Potatoes and Zucchini with Cheese Baked

Total preparation time: 1 hour
Cooking time: 30-40 minutes
Number of servings: 4-6

I propose a delicious and comforting recipe, perfect for a family meal or a dinner with friends: baked potatoes and zucchini with cheese! This recipe not only combines flavors and textures, but it is also very easy to prepare, making it ideal for anyone, regardless of culinary skills.

A brief history

Baked dishes with vegetables and cheese are a cherished culinary tradition in many cultures, with deep roots in comfort food cuisine. These recipes are appreciated for their combination of simple yet flavorful ingredients, which transform into a savory main dish, perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

- 3 zucchini
- 5 large potatoes
- 1 tomato
- 400 grams of cheese (a delicious combination of sheep cheese and mozzarella is ideal)
- 3 tablespoons of breadcrumbs
- Butter or margarine for greasing the dish
- 2 eggs
- 1 tablespoon of milk
- 10 tablespoons of sour cream or yogurt
- Salt and spices (preferably aromatic herbs like oregano or basil)

Ingredient details

- Zucchini: Choose young zucchini with smooth skin for a sweeter taste and a more pleasant texture.
- Potatoes: Opt for floury potatoes, such as Russet or Yukon Gold varieties, which will cook perfectly without falling apart.
- Cheese: Sheep cheese adds an intense flavor, while mozzarella provides a creamy texture and a delicious melted cheese layer.
- Sour cream or yogurt: You can use full-fat sour cream for a richer taste, while Greek yogurt will add a note of freshness.

Step-by-step preparation

1. Preparing the vegetables: Start by peeling the zucchini, then slice them lengthwise into approximately 1 cm thick slices. These slices will absorb the flavors and cook evenly.

2. Boiling the zucchini: Place the zucchini in a pot of boiling salted water. Let them boil for 5 minutes - it's important not to leave them longer, as you want them to remain crunchy and not get too soft.

3. Preparing the potatoes: Peel the potatoes and cut them into medium-sized cubes. Boil them for 10-15 minutes, until they become soft but do not fall apart. Drain them well and set aside.

4. Preparing the baking dish: Grease a heat-resistant dish with butter or margarine, then sprinkle the breadcrumbs on the bottom of the dish to create a crunchy crust.

5. Assembling the dish: Arrange the zucchini slices in the dish, covering the base well. Sprinkle with salt and your favorite spices. Add half of the grated cheese and drizzle with half of the sour cream or yogurt.

6. Adding the potatoes: Place the boiled potato cubes in an even layer, sprinkle with salt and spices, then add the remaining cheese and sour cream on top.

7. Preparing the egg mixture: In a bowl, beat the 2 eggs with 1 tablespoon of milk and a pinch of salt. This will add a creamy and tasty layer on top of the dish.

8. Decorating with tomatoes: Slice the tomato thinly and arrange it evenly on top for an extra touch of color and freshness.

9. Baking: Preheat the oven to 180-200°C and place the dish inside. Let it bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the dish turns golden and the cheese on top melts beautifully.

Serving and suggestions

Once the dish is ready, let it cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve it warm, alongside a fresh salad or a side of steamed vegetables. You can accompany this main dish with a glass of white wine or herbal tea for a truly special meal.

Variations and tips

- You can vary the recipe by adding other vegetables, such as carrots or bell peppers, for different textures and flavors.
- Replace sheep cheese with feta for a saltier note or add spices like cumin or paprika for a spicier taste.
- If you want to reduce calories, you can use low-fat cheese or Greek yogurt.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use other vegetables instead of zucchini? Yes, you can use pumpkin, eggplant, or even broccoli. Make sure all the vegetables are cut evenly for uniform cooking.

2. How can I reheat the dish? The dish can be reheated in the oven or microwave, but it’s best in the oven to restore the crunchy crust.

3. Is this dish suitable for vegetarians? Absolutely! This recipe is completely vegetarian, perfect for those who choose a meat-free lifestyle.

Nutritional benefits

This dish offers an excellent mix of carbohydrates from potatoes, vitamins and minerals from zucchini and tomatoes, as well as proteins from cheese and eggs. It is a balanced meal, full of essential nutrients.

So, don’t hesitate to try this baked potatoes and zucchini with cheese recipe! It’s simple, quick, and full of flavor. Enjoy!