Cheesy Mediterranean Zucchini Bread
Cheesy Mediterranean Zucchini Bread is a savory loaf that combines the moisture of fresh zucchini with the rich flavors of Mediterranean ingredients. This delightful bread features a golden crust and a soft, cheesy interior, enhanced by the tang of feta and the savory notes of sun-dried tomatoes and olives. It’s perfect for a light lunch, served alongside soups and salads, or enjoyed as a snack. The blend of herbs like oregano and basil brings a fragrant aroma, making it a flavorful addition to any meal.
Ingredients:
1 ½ cups grated zucchini (about 1 medium zucchini)
1 ½ cups all-purpose flour (almond flour)
1 tsp baking powder
½ tsp baking soda
1 tsp salt
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp dried basil
½ tsp garlic powder
½ cup crumbled feta cheese
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
⅓ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (drain if in oil)
¼ cup black olives, chopped
2 large eggs
¼ cup olive oil
¼ cup plain Greek yogurt
1 tsp lemon zest
Freshly ground black pepper (optional)
Fresh herbs like parsley or basil for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
Prepare Zucchini: Grate the zucchini and squeeze out excess moisture using a clean kitchen towel or paper towels.
Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, oregano, basil, and garlic powder.
Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk the eggs, olive oil, and Greek yogurt until smooth. Stir in the lemon zest.
Combine Ingredients: Add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Fold in the grated zucchini, feta, Parmesan, sun-dried tomatoes, and olives.
Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Bake for 45-55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cool: Allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Serve: Garnish with fresh herbs if desired. Enjoy warm or at room temperature.
Notes:
Zucchini Preparation: Be sure to thoroughly squeeze out excess moisture from the grated zucchini; this prevents the bread from becoming soggy.
Cheese Variations: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese, such as goat cheese or mozzarella, for varied flavors and textures.
Add-Ins: You can add other ingredients like roasted red peppers, artichokes, or chopped spinach to customize the bread further.
Storage: Store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week or freeze for up to 3 months.
Serving Suggestions: This bread pairs well with a variety of dips, such as hummus or tzatziki, and makes a great base for open-faced sandwiches.
Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version, adjusting the liquid as needed.
This Cheesy Mediterranean Zucchini Bread is not only delicious but also versatile, making it a great option for any occasion!