This Zucchini Slice is a perfect blend of creamy cheese, tender zucchini, and a light, fluffy texture. It’s a versatile dish that can be served warm or cold, making it ideal for any occasion, specially for back to – school lunch or a light dinner.
It’s also incredibly customizable you can add in your favorite herbs, spices, or even a bit of cooked bacon or chicken to make it heartier. This dish offers a delightful balance of flavors and textures while being simple enough to make during busy weeknights. It’s a great way to get your kids involved in the kitchen, and it’s guaranteed to become a family favorite!
Full Recipe
Ingredients:
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2 medium zucchinis, grated
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1 onion, finely chopped
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1 cup grated cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
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1/2 cup self-raising flour
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4 large eggs
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1/2 cup milk
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1/4 cup olive oil
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Salt and pepper to taste
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Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Directions:
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Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish (approximately 8×8 inches) or line with parchment paper.
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Grate the zucchinis and squeeze out any excess water using a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth.
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In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
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Stir in the flour until smooth, then add the grated zucchini, chopped onion, and grated cheese. Mix well.
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Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and smooth the top evenly.
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Bake for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown and set in the center.
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Let the slice cool slightly before cutting into squares. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 35 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes
Kcal: 250 kcal | Servings: 6 servings
Zucchini Slice: A Perfect Easy Back-to-School Meal Idea
When it comes to back-to-school meals, finding the balance between nutritious and easy-to-make options can be tricky. As parents and caregivers scramble to pack lunchboxes and come up with after-school snacks, it’s always a relief to discover a recipe that’s both simple to prepare and packed with healthy ingredients. That’s where the Zucchini Slice comes in a savory dish that not only satisfies the taste buds but also provides a healthy way to incorporate vegetables into your kids’ diet.
This Zucchini Slice is a fantastic option for busy school days, offering a versatile meal that’s quick to prepare, delicious, and packed with nutrition. Whether you’re looking for an easy lunchbox filler, a tasty after-school snack, or a wholesome family dinner, this dish will check all the boxes.
Why Choose Zucchini Slice?
Zucchini, often seen as a humble vegetable, is packed with vitamins and minerals, including vitamins A, C, and K, as well as fiber and antioxidants. It’s also naturally low in calories, making it an ideal vegetable for those looking to maintain a healthy diet. Additionally, zucchini has a mild flavor that makes it an easy addition to many different dishes, and when grated, it seamlessly blends into recipes like this Zucchini Slice without overpowering other flavors.
The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity. With just a few ingredients, you can whip up a meal that is both satisfying and nourishing. The zucchini is paired with eggs, cheese, and a bit of self-raising flour to create a savory slice that’s both fluffy and rich. It’s a great way to get kids to eat more vegetables without them even noticing!
Versatility for Busy Families
One of the greatest advantages of this Zucchini Slice is how versatile it is. You can serve it warm, fresh out of the oven, or enjoy it cold the next day for lunch. It’s just as delicious at room temperature, making it perfect for packing into lunchboxes or serving as a quick snack after school.
The recipe is also highly adaptable. While the basic version is a perfect starting point, you can customize it according to your family’s preferences. If your kids love a little extra protein, you can easily add cooked chicken, bacon, or even ham into the mix. Alternatively, for those who prefer to keep things vegetarian, you can experiment with different herbs, spices, or even grated carrots for added flavor and nutrition.
Additionally, if you have other vegetables in the fridge that need to be used up, such as bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms, feel free to incorporate them into the Zucchini Slice. This makes it an excellent recipe for cleaning out the vegetable drawer while still creating a dish everyone will love.
A Balanced Meal in Every Slice
This recipe is not only an easy meal but also a well-rounded one. The zucchini provides a healthy dose of vitamins, while the eggs add protein, and the cheese brings a rich, savory flavor that children adore. The self-raising flour helps create a fluffy texture that’s comforting without being too heavy, which makes it a great option for lunch or dinner.
The best part? It’s a dish that’s also friendly to a variety of diets. You can make it gluten-free by swapping out regular flour for a gluten-free version. You can even make it dairy-free by using plant-based cheese and milk. For those who prefer a higher-protein version, try adding some quinoa, cooked chicken, or even chickpeas to the recipe for an extra boost.
Make Ahead and Store for Later
Another benefit of the Zucchini Slice is that it can be made ahead of time, making your week a whole lot easier. You can prepare it the night before or even batch cook it on the weekend to enjoy throughout the week. Once baked, allow it to cool, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
For even more convenience, this dish can be frozen. After cooling, slice it into individual portions and store them in freezer bags or airtight containers. When you need a quick meal or snack, simply pull out a portion and reheat it in the oven or microwave. This makes the Zucchini Slice an excellent addition to your meal prep routine, providing healthy and easy-to-reheat options when you’re on the go.
Perfect for School Lunchboxes
As schools open their doors once again, finding nutritious and easy lunchbox ideas is a priority for many parents. This Zucchini Slice is ideal for filling up lunchboxes with a delicious, veggie-packed option that your kids will enjoy. It’s easy to pack and requires no heating up, making it a convenient meal for busy mornings.
If you want to mix it up a bit, try pairing the Zucchini Slice with a side of fruit or a small serving of yogurt for a complete meal. It’s a great alternative to sandwiches and wraps, and its savory flavor will satisfy even the pickiest eaters.
Tips for Making the Best Zucchini Slice
To ensure that your Zucchini Slice comes out perfect every time, here are a few tips:
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Remove Excess Water from the Zucchini: Zucchini has a high water content, so it’s important to squeeze out as much moisture as possible before adding it to the mixture. This prevents the slice from becoming soggy and helps it hold together better.
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Use a Grater: Grating the zucchini helps it distribute evenly throughout the dish, giving it a light texture and ensuring that each bite contains some zucchini. You can use a box grater or a food processor for this step.
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Experiment with Cheese: While cheddar and mozzarella are common choices for this dish, feel free to get creative with your cheese selection. Parmesan, feta, or even a combination of different cheeses can add new flavors to the slice.
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Add Extra Vegetables: If you want to increase the nutritional value, consider adding extra vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms. These vegetables blend well with zucchini and add even more flavor and texture.
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Let It Cool Before Slicing: Allow the Zucchini Slice to cool slightly before cutting it into squares. This helps the slice set and makes it easier to handle and serve.
Conclusion:
The Zucchini Slice is a perfect, hassle-free meal idea for families looking for a simple, healthy, and delicious recipe. Whether you need a quick weeknight dinner, a make-ahead lunchbox option for back to school ideas, or an after-school snack, this recipe has you covered. It’s nutritious, full of flavor, and flexible enough to suit different tastes and dietary needs. By including zucchini, a vegetable that’s often overlooked, in a way that’s both enjoyable and easy to eat, this dish ensures that your kids are getting a great source of nutrition without even realizing it!
If you haven’t tried it yet, this easy Zucchini Slice should definitely be added to your repertoire of go-to meals. Quick, simple, and oh-so-delicious, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household for the busy school season and beyond.