Zucchini Treat
A savory zucchini casserole with Parmesan, eggs, and breadcrumbs, offering a delicious, cheesy, and tender dish perfect for family meals or entertaining guests.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Wash and cut zucchini into quarters and cook in boiling slightly salted water until done.
- Don't overcook.
- Drain well, let cool, cut into small pieces, and slightly squeeze out excess water.
- Place in a large bowl, add beaten eggs and all other ingredients.
- Mix very well.
- Oil the bottom of a 9 x 12-inch pan.
- Sprinkle some bread crumbs and smooth out.
- Spread mixture on top of the crumbs.
- Sprinkle a few more crumbs and Parmesan cheese on top of the mixture.
- Bake in a 350°F oven for about 50 minutes or until brown on top.
- Serve warm or when cooled, cut into 2-inch squares and serve as hors d'oeuvres.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, you can substitute half of the Parmesan cheese with nutritional yeast. If you want a bit more flavor, consider adding minced garlic or fresh herbs like basil or thyme. Adjust the seasoning according to your taste preferences, and remember to drain the zucchini thoroughly to avoid a watery mixture.
Serving Suggestions
This Zucchini Treat pairs beautifully with a fresh salad, such as Jean Hardin'S Salad, or can be served alongside a dipping sauce like marinara or ranch. Cut into smaller squares, they make delightful hors d'oeuvres for parties, or serve them as a side dish for grilled meats.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place the squares in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick snack.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Zucchini Treat contains roughly 823 calories, with 13g protein, 145g carbohydrates, and 22g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (27% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (25% of the Daily Value), and iron (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1432mg per serving (62% 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 use other vegetables besides zucchini?
Yes, you can experiment with other vegetables like yellow squash or shredded carrots. Just ensure they are cooked and drained well to maintain the right consistency in the mixture.
What can I substitute for eggs in this recipe?
You can replace the eggs with flaxseed meal or chia seeds mixed with water as a vegan alternative. Use 1 tablespoon of flaxseed or chia mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water per egg, letting it sit until it becomes gel-like.
How do I know when the dish is done baking?
The Zucchini Treat is done when the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on it towards the end of the baking time to prevent over-browning.
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).