Zucchini Bake

If you’re ready to try something new, then this Zucchini bake is incredible. This dish is considered a culinary masterpiece in the Western world. Did you know that Zucchini is botanically a fruit? It is considered an immature fruit, which means it is harvested before it reaches full botanical ripeness.

Zucchini bake has its roots in Mediterranean cuisine. This summer squash has been used for centuries in their diets, and good reason: zucchini is creamy and delicious in savoury recipes. Let’s talk about zucchini itself. This green squash is packed with nutrients, and it is a staple in many kitchens, particularly in the summer months.

It is perfect as a side dish for your family gatherings, and it can also be served at barbecues. You can customize this recipe by adding other seasonal vegetables or incorporating protein like chicken, shrimp, or beef. This dish is incredibly easy to make and you can prepare it ahead of time.

Ingredients

Zucchini, Mushroom, Onion, Leek, Sweet Corn, Garlic Cloves, Fresh Cream, Milk, Eggs, Cheddar Cheese, Garlic Powder, Oregano, Ground white pepper, Salt.

Zucchini comes in a range of different colours such as dark green, light green, golden and striped. All of it taste the same, you can use whatever is available for you at the supermarket. White mushrooms are used in this recipe; you can also use brown mushrooms, cremini mushrooms, Portobello mushrooms, and Chanterelle mushrooms. Onions and garlic enhance the savoury flavours of this dish.

Fresh cream lends this dish a lighter taste. Given that zucchini is 93 percent water, the fresh cream adds creaminess without being heavy. Its lower fat content makes it suitable for dishes with a custard mix of eggs and cream, also known in French as an ‘Appareil’. On the other hand, you can also use heavy cream, which has a higher fat content, which will produce a richer and denser texture.

The eggs, fresh cream, and milk are whisked together into a smooth consistency, which creates the perfect custard-like mixture for this zucchini bake. The spices are minimalistic, with ground white pepper, oregano, and garlic powder providing a gentle flavour to the dish.

Instructions

Finely slice the red onion and mince the garlic cloves. Add oil to a pot and set the temperature to medium-low heat. Add the red onion and garlic cloves and sauté for six to eight minutes until it is golden brown and caramelized.

Thinly slice the leeks, wash the mushrooms, and the zucchini. Slice the mushrooms, cut the zucchini vertically, and then cut into a triangular shape. Add the leeks, mushrooms, and zucchini to the pan. Sauté on medium-low heat for five minutes until the water is released from the mushrooms; in some cases, it may take longer.

Add the spices such as the white pepper powder, garlic powder, salt and oregano and mix well. Add the sweetcorn and mix well. If using fresh or frozen corn, sauté for five more minutes. If using canned sweetcorn, further cooking is unnecessary.

Crack two eggs into a bowl and whisk well. Add the fresh cream to a bowl. Whisk the eggs and milk in a separate bowl along with the spices, such as garlic powder, white pepper powder, and salt. It is essential to add condiments to the custard-like mixture; this will give the zucchini bake a subtle flavour. Mix the ingredients well.

Add the sauteed vegetables to a baking casserole, pour the custard-like mixture into the casserole, ensure that the liquid is evenly spread out.

Grate the cheddar cheese and sprinkle it on top of the sauteed vegetables. Place the Zucchini bake in the oven and bake at a temperature of 175 °C for thirty minutes.

Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for five minutes, allowing it to settle down. Serve the dish with your favourite main meal or enjoy it as it is.

Zucchini bake is a simple dish to make at home, and it is perfect for family gatherings. The sautéed zucchini transforms into a creamy blend in this recipe, adding a nutty flair. Meanwhile, the combination of mushrooms, sweet corn, and caramelized onions complements the savoury flavours perfectly.

What to Serve with Zucchini Bake?

Zucchini bake pairs well with a variety of salads, such as the Rocket and Red Pepper salad, which uses a tangy Italian salad dressing that is absolutely delicious alongside this dish. If you want to complement the creaminess of the zucchini bake, consider a robust Caesar Salad, which uses crunchy croutons as well as grilled chicken for protein. If you’re looking for something out of the norm, consider our Grilled Fish recipe, which uses a lime butter dressing that would be spectacular with this Zucchini Bake.

How to Store Zucchini Bake?

Allow the zucchini bake to cool down and store it in an airtight container in the fridge. It will last for three to five days. You can also freeze the zucchini bake in the freezer for three months. To do this, cut the zucchini bake into square pieces and wrap each piece in parchment paper. This will make it easier to separate and maintain its form during defrosting. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm in a microwave.