Zucchini-Artichoke Squares
Zucchini and artichoke hearts combine with cheesy goodness in these savory squares, perfect for brunch or light lunch, offering a flavorful vegetarian dish with Mediterranean flair.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Drain artichoke hearts, reserving marinade, then chop.
- In a large bowl, beat eggs and seasonings including Tabasco, oregano, and parsley.
- Mix in grated Cheddar cheese and bread crumbs.
- Mince the onion and garlic.
- Saute onions and garlic in 2 tablespoons of the reserved marinade until fragrant.
- Add zucchini and cook for 1 minute.
- Stir the sautéed vegetables and chopped artichoke hearts into the cheese mixture.
- Pour the mixture into a greased 9 x 13-inch pan.
- Bake in a preheated 350°F oven for 30 minutes or until firm.
- Allow to cool a few minutes, then cut into squares.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a bit of cream cheese or ricotta to the cheese mixture. If you don't have marinated artichokes, canned artichokes can be used with a splash of olive oil and lemon juice for flavor. Fresh herbs like basil or thyme can also make a delightful addition to the mix, enhancing the Mediterranean flavors.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Zucchini-Artichoke Squares warm as a delightful appetizer or snack at gatherings. They pair beautifully with a side of Romano Yogurt Salad Dressing for a refreshing dip. Consider serving them alongside a light salad or as part of a Mediterranean spread featuring dishes like Mediterranean Six Layer Dip for a complete meal experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Zucchini-Artichoke Squares in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place squares in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. These squares can also be enjoyed cold, making them a great option for meal prep.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Zucchini-Artichoke Squares contains roughly 312 calories, with 23g protein, 55g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (222% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (108% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (98% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 534mg per serving (23% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make Zucchini-Artichoke Squares ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just be sure to cover it to prevent it from drying out. This makes it easy to have a delicious dish ready for a gathering or quick meal.
What can I use instead of Cheddar cheese?
If you're looking for a different flavor, consider using Monterey Jack or a blend of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. For a sharper taste, you could also opt for Gruyère. Each cheese will provide a unique twist to the Zucchini-Artichoke Squares while maintaining a delicious texture.
Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to incorporate other vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms to enhance the flavor and nutrition of the squares. Just make sure to sauté any additional veggies to reduce moisture content and maintain the right texture in your dish.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).