Zucchini Torta
A savory zucchini and rice tart with fresh herbs and Parmesan, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, offering a golden crust and tender filling.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Slice the zucchini and chop the onion.
- Parboil the zucchini and onion for about 15 to 20 minutes, then drain well.
- Cook the rice until tender.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked zucchini, onion, eggs, chopped basil, chopped parsley, cooked rice, bread crumbs, grated Parmesan cheese (reserve some for topping), salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Pour the mixture into a greased 9 x 13-inch glass baking dish.
- Sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese on top.
- Bake at 350°F for 30 minutes or until the top is golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and cool well before slicing into squares and serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding ricotta cheese to the mixture. If zucchini is unavailable, yellow squash can serve as a suitable substitute. Fresh herbs like dill or cilantro can also enhance the flavor. Make sure to squeeze out excess moisture from the zucchini after parboiling to prevent a soggy torta. This dish is versatile and can be adapted to include other vegetables as well.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the zucchini torta warm or at room temperature, cut into squares. It pairs beautifully with a crisp salad, like Greek Macaroni Salad, to balance the flavors. This dish can be enjoyed as a main course or as a side dish for grilled meats or Mediterranean recipes. A dollop of yogurt or sour cream can complement the dish nicely.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick snack, but the oven will help maintain the torta's texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Zucchini Torta contains roughly 1135 calories, with 42g protein, 197g carbohydrates, and 27g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (222% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (119% of the Daily Value), and potassium (106% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1560mg per serving (68% 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 this torta ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the torta a day in advance. Assemble the dish and cover it tightly with plastic wrap before refrigerating. Bake it the next day, allowing a few extra minutes in the oven if cooking from cold.
Can I freeze the zucchini torta?
Freezing is possible! After baking, let the torta cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing. It can be stored for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
What can I serve with zucchini torta?
Zucchini torta pairs well with a variety of dishes. Consider serving it alongside roasted vegetables, a fresh garden salad, or even a light soup for a complete meal. It also makes a great addition to a brunch spread or as an appetizer.
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).