If you’re looking for a quick, tasty, and nutritious meal that you can prepare almost every day, this Zucchini and Tuna Casserole is the perfect recipe. Combining the freshness of zucchini, the savory taste of tuna, and the creamy texture of cheese, this dish is both satisfying and easy to make. Let’s dive into the detailed steps to create this culinary delight.
Ingredients
- Zucchini: 2 medium-sized
- Salt: to taste
- Onion: 1 medium-sized
- Dill: to taste
- Eggs: 3
- Black Pepper: to taste
- Mayonnaise: 2 tbsp (30ml)
- All-Purpose Flour: 3 tbsp (24g)
- Baking Powder: 1 tsp (4g)
- Canned Tuna: 7 oz (200g)
- Boiled Eggs: 2
- Cheese: 3.5 oz (100g)
- Vegetable Oil: as needed
- Breadcrumbs: 1 tbsp (15g)
Preparation of Zucchini Mixture
Step 1: Preparing the Zucchini
- Slice the Zucchini: Wash the zucchini thoroughly and slice them into thin rounds.
- Salting: Place the sliced zucchini in a colander and sprinkle generously with salt. Let them sit for about 15 minutes. This process helps to draw out excess moisture from the zucchini.
- Squeeze Out Moisture: After 15 minutes, squeeze the zucchini slices gently to remove the excess water. This step is crucial to prevent the casserole from becoming too watery.
Step 2: Mixing with Other Ingredients
- Chop the Onion and Dill: Finely chop the onion and dill. These will add flavor and freshness to the zucchini mixture.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the chopped onion and dill with the zucchini slices.
- Prepare the Egg Mixture: In a separate bowl, beat the 3 eggs. Add black pepper to taste, 2 tablespoons of mayonnaise, 3 tablespoons of all-purpose flour, and 1 teaspoon of baking powder. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
- Mix Everything Together: Pour the egg mixture into the bowl with the zucchini, onion, and dill. Stir until the zucchini slices are evenly coated with the mixture.
Preparation of Tuna Mixture
Step 3: Preparing the Tuna Filling
- Prepare the Ingredients: Drain the canned tuna and place it in a bowl. Chop the boiled eggs into small pieces. Grate the cheese.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the chopped boiled eggs and grated cheese to the bowl with the tuna. Mix well to ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed.
Assembly and Baking
Step 4: Assembling the Casserole
- Grease the Baking Dish: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease a baking dish with vegetable oil. Sprinkle 1 tablespoon of breadcrumbs evenly over the bottom of the dish. This helps to prevent sticking and adds a bit of crunch to the bottom layer.
- Layering: Spread the zucchini mixture evenly over the bottom of the baking dish. This forms the first layer of the casserole. Next, spread the tuna mixture evenly over the zucchini layer, ensuring it is well-distributed.
Step 5: Baking
- Bake the Casserole: Place the assembled casserole in the preheated oven and bake for about 40 minutes. The top should be golden brown and bubbly, indicating that it is done.
Serving Suggestions
Step 6: Serving Your Dish
- Rest the Casserole: Allow the casserole to cool slightly for about 5 minutes after removing it from the oven. This makes it easier to cut and serve.
- Serving: Cut the casserole into portions and serve hot. Pair it with a fresh green salad or some crusty bread to complete the meal. Enjoy the delicious combination of flavors and textures that make this dish so special.
Tips for Perfect Zucchini and Tuna Casserole
- Drain the Tuna Well: Ensuring that the canned tuna is well-drained prevents excess moisture in the casserole.
- Cheese Variety: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese. Cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix of cheeses can add unique flavors to the dish.
- Add Vegetables: You can add other vegetables like bell peppers or tomatoes to the zucchini mixture for added flavor and nutrition.
This Zucchini and Tuna Casserole is not only delicious but also a great way to incorporate vegetables and protein into your diet. Enjoy making this quick and easy dish that’s perfect for any day of the week!
