This Zucchini, Potato, and Cheese Savory Loaf is the perfect combination of tender vegetables and rich, cheesy flavors. It’s an excellent choice for a light lunch, a side dish, or even a savory breakfast. With grated zucchini and potato, combined with Parmesan and spreadable cheese, this loaf is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients.
Ingredients
- 2 zucchini, grated
- 1 medium potato, peeled and grated
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 120 g (1 cup) flour
- 4 eggs
- 100 ml (⅓ cup + 4 tsp) milk
- 60 ml (4 tbsp) extra virgin olive oil (plus two turns for sautéing)
- 11 g (1 packet) yeast (for savory pies)
- 1 tsp (4 g) sugar
- A few tablespoons of protein or light spreadable fresh cheese
- 40 g (⅓ cup) grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Zucchini and Potato
- Grate the vegetables: Using a box grater, grate the zucchini and potato into a large bowl.
- Remove excess water: Zucchini tends to release a lot of water. To prevent the loaf from becoming soggy, place the grated zucchini in a clean cloth or paper towel and squeeze out as much water as possible. This step is crucial for achieving the right texture.
2. Sauté the Onion
- Heat olive oil: In a frying pan, heat two turns of extra virgin olive oil over medium heat.
- Sauté the onion: Add the chopped onion and sauté for 5-7 minutes, or until golden and softened. Once done, set aside to cool slightly.
3. Mix the Dry Ingredients
- Prepare the flour mixture: In a large bowl, mix together the 120 g of flour, 1 packet of yeast, and 1 tsp of sugar.
- Season: Add a pinch of salt and pepper to taste.
4. Combine the Wet Ingredients
- Whisk the wet ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the 4 eggs, 100 ml of milk, and 60 ml of extra virgin olive oil. Ensure the mixture is well combined and smooth.
5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
- Incorporate the wet mixture: Gradually pour the wet egg mixture into the bowl with the flour mixture. Stir well to create a smooth batter.
- Add the vegetables and cheese: Stir in the grated zucchini, grated potato, sautéed onion, spreadable fresh cheese, and 40 g of grated Parmesan cheese. Mix everything thoroughly until well combined.
6. Prepare the Loaf Pan
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 180°C (360°F) and allow it to preheat.
- Prepare the pan: Grease a loaf pan with a little olive oil or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
7. Bake the Loaf
- Pour the batter: Transfer the zucchini and potato mixture into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
- Bake: Place the loaf in the preheated oven and bake for 45-55 minutes. The loaf is ready when it’s golden brown on top and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Cool and Serve
- Cool the loaf: Allow the loaf to cool slightly in the pan for about 10 minutes. This will make it easier to remove and slice.
- Serve: Slice and serve the savory loaf warm, either on its own or with a dollop of spreadable cheese or butter. It also pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or as a side to soups and stews.
Tips for Success
- Removing excess water: Be sure to squeeze out as much water as possible from the zucchini. This step is key to ensuring the loaf has the right texture and doesn’t become too moist.
- Fresh cheese: If you want a richer flavor, opt for a protein-rich cheese or a light spreadable cheese such as ricotta or cream cheese.
- Add-ins: For extra flavor, feel free to add herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley. You can also include extras like sun-dried tomatoes, olives, or even some cooked bacon bits.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 220 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 18 g
- Protein: 9 g
- Fat: 12 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Sodium: 300 mg
- Sugar: 2 g
Conclusion
This Zucchini, Potato, and Cheese Savory Loaf is an incredibly versatile dish that you can enjoy at any time of day. It’s a perfect balance of vegetables and cheese, providing a comforting yet nutritious meal. Serve it warm from the oven or enjoy it cold as a snack or packed lunch the next day. With its moist texture and delicious flavor, this savory loaf is sure to become a household favorite!
