Mediterranean Herb and Garlic Loaf
Time: 1 hour (including prep and baking)
Serves: 8–10 slices
This Mediterranean Herb and Garlic Loaf is a savory, aromatic bread that combines fresh herbs, garlic, and cheese with a tender, moist crumb. Shredded zucchini adds natural moisture and subtle sweetness, while a mix of cheeses provides richness and depth of flavor. Perfect as a snack, breakfast, or side for soups and salads, this loaf is easy to prepare and full of Mediterranean-inspired flavors.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients:
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking powder
½ tsp baking soda
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper
Wet Ingredients:
3 large eggs
½ cup vegetable oil or olive oil
½ cup milk or yogurt
Main Fillings:
1 cup shredded zucchini (squeezed to remove excess moisture)
1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, Parmesan, or feta)
2–3 cloves garlic, minced
Herbs:
2 tbsp fresh herbs, chopped (parsley, dill, basil, oregano, or chives), or 2 tsp dried herbs
Instructions
Preheat the oven:
Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
Prepare the dry ingredients:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and pepper.
Mix the wet ingredients:
In a separate bowl, beat the eggs, then whisk in the oil and milk (or yogurt) until smooth.
Combine wet and dry ingredients:
Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and gently fold until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the loaf tender.
Add fillings:
Fold in the shredded zucchini, cheese, minced garlic, and chopped herbs until evenly distributed.
Bake:
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan.
Bake for 45–55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean and the top is golden brown.
Cool and serve:
Let the loaf cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Tips & Variations
Zucchini Preparation
Shredded zucchini contains a lot of water. Squeeze out excess moisture with a clean kitchen towel or paper towels to prevent the loaf from becoming soggy.
You can substitute zucchini with grated carrots or yellow squash for a slightly different flavor.
Cheese Options
Use cheddar for a sharp flavor, Parmesan for nuttiness, or feta for a tangy Mediterranean twist.
A combination of cheeses adds depth and richness.
Herbs and Flavor Enhancements
Fresh herbs like parsley, basil, dill, oregano, or chives bring bright flavor.
Dried herbs can be used if fresh are unavailable, but reduce the amount slightly as dried herbs are more concentrated.
Optional additions: a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat or a teaspoon of lemon zest for brightness.
Mixing Tips
Fold the ingredients gently. Overmixing can lead to a dense loaf.
Make sure zucchini and cheese are evenly distributed to avoid pockets in the loaf.
Baking Tips
Check for doneness with a toothpick inserted into the center; it should come out clean.
If the top browns too quickly, cover loosely with foil for the last 10 minutes of baking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve warm as a snack, breakfast, or side dish.
Pair with soups, salads, or Mediterranean dips like tzatziki for a complete meal.
Slice and toast leftovers for sandwiches or a savory breakfast.
Make-Ahead Tips
The loaf can be made a day in advance and stored in an airtight container at room temperature.
It also freezes well: wrap slices individually for convenient future use.
Q&A
Q: Can I make this loaf gluten-free?
Yes. Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend suitable for baking. You may need to adjust the liquid slightly to achieve the right batter consistency.
Q: Can I use other vegetables instead of zucchini?
Absolutely. Grated carrots, yellow squash, or even cooked spinach can be used. Just ensure excess moisture is removed to prevent a soggy loaf.
Q: Can I make this loaf dairy-free?
Yes. Use a dairy-free milk or yogurt and a plant-based cheese alternative. The flavor will be slightly different but still delicious.
Q: Can I prepare the batter ahead of time?
You can mix the batter and refrigerate for a few hours before baking. Allow it to come to room temperature for 10–15 minutes before placing it in the oven.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for 2–3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week. You can also freeze slices for up to 2 months.
Nutrition
(Per serving – based on 10 slices)
Calories: ~180
Protein: 7g
Fat: 9g
Carbohydrates: 18g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 250mg
(Values vary depending on the type of cheese and milk used.)
Conclusion
The Mediterranean Herb and Garlic Loaf is a savory, aromatic bread packed with fresh herbs, garlic, zucchini, and cheese. It’s moist, flavorful, and versatile—perfect as a snack, breakfast, or side to soups and salads. Quick to prepare and adaptable to dietary needs, this loaf brings a bright Mediterranean flair to your table, and it’s a simple way to enjoy fresh herbs and vegetables in every bite.