Zucchini fritters with cheese in the oven

Zucchini Fritters with Cheese - A Delicious, Simple, and Healthy Recipe

If you are looking for a recipe that impresses both in taste and appearance, zucchini fritters with cheese are the perfect choice! These delicious dishes are easy to make, ideal as an appetizer or even as a main course alongside a fresh salad. Let’s explore together the steps to create these zucchini fritters with cheese that will delight your family and friends.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Ingredients:
- 3 medium zucchinis (about 600-700 g)
- 2 large eggs
- 3-4 tablespoons of flour
- 3 tablespoons of olive oil (or any other vegetable oil)
- 150 g cheese sliced thinly
- 3 tablespoons of sour cream
- 50 g grated Parmesan
- Breadcrumbs (about 100 g, to cover the tray and give a crunchy texture)
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste (optional)

The History of Zucchini Fritters
Zucchini fritters have a long-standing tradition, being a popular dish in many cultures due to their versatility and pleasant taste. They are often made as a way to use fresh zucchinis from the garden, transforming them into a satisfying and healthy meal. Today, we will add a touch of modernity to the traditional recipe by combining simple ingredients in a creative and delicious way.

Preparing the Ingredients
Let’s start with the zucchinis. Choose fresh zucchinis, with smooth skin and no blemishes. They should be vibrant and full of life, as a quality zucchini will make a difference in the final taste of the dish. Wash them well and cut off the ends.

1. Boiling the Zucchinis
Place the zucchinis in a large pot of salted water, bringing it to a boil. Let them boil for about 10-15 minutes, or until they become soft enough to be mashed. It is important not to overboil them, as you don’t want them to become overly mushy. Once boiled, drain them and let them cool slightly before mashing.

2. Preparing the Mixture
After the zucchinis have cooled, place them in a large bowl and mash them with a fork or a potato masher. Add the two eggs, flour, salt, and pepper to taste. Mix well until everything is homogeneous. Use a spatula or a wooden spoon to ensure there are no lumps left.

3. Preparing the Baking Tray
Preheat the oven to 180°C. In a baking tray, add the 3 tablespoons of olive oil, spreading it evenly over the bottom of the tray. Sprinkle a uniform layer of breadcrumbs on the bottom of the tray, making sure to cover the surface well. This layer will provide a crunchy texture to your fritters.

4. Assembling the Fritters
Divide the zucchini mixture into two equal parts. Spread the first half of the mixture in the tray, ensuring a uniform base. Then, place the slices of cheese over this layer, distributing them evenly. Now, take the other half of the zucchini mixture and spread it over the cheese, completely covering this layer.

5. Finishing the Dish
Sprinkle another layer of breadcrumbs on top of the mixture, followed by the 3 tablespoons of sour cream, which will add creaminess. Finally, sprinkle the grated Parmesan on top for an intense flavor and crunchy texture.

6. Baking the Fritters
Place the tray in the preheated oven and let it bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the fritters become golden and crispy on top. It’s the perfect time to enjoy the delicious aroma that will spread throughout the house!

Serving and Suggestions
Once the fritters are ready, let them cool for a few minutes before cutting them into portions. They are excellent served warm, but can also be enjoyed at room temperature. You can accompany the fritters with a fresh green salad or a yogurt sauce flavored with dill and garlic for an extra touch of freshness.

Variations and Tips
If you want to experiment, you can add herbs such as basil or dill to the zucchini mixture for an extra note of flavor. You can also substitute the cheese with feta or mozzarella for a different taste dimension.

Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use frozen zucchinis?
It is preferable to use fresh zucchinis, but you can also use frozen zucchinis, ensuring that you completely thaw and drain them before mashing.

2. What other ingredients can I add?
You can add grated carrots, potatoes, or even olives to diversify the recipe.

3. How can I store the fritters?
They can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 3-4 days. You can reheat them in the oven or microwave before serving.

Estimated Nutritional Values (per serving):
- Calories: 250
- Protein: 12 g
- Fats: 15 g
- Carbohydrates: 20 g
- Fiber: 3 g

Zucchini fritters with cheese are not only a tasty dish but also an excellent way to consume vegetables. They are rich in vitamins and minerals, with a low-calorie content, making them ideal for a balanced diet.

In conclusion, this recipe for zucchini fritters with cheese is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family dinner or a party with friends. Let your creativity flow and enjoy every bite! Enjoy your meal!