Are you looking for a quick, healthy, and incredibly tasty dinner recipe? Look no further! This Zucchini and Eggs recipe is a fantastic option for a weeknight meal. It’s packed with flavor, requires minimal ingredients, and takes only minutes to prepare. Perfect for busy weeknights or a light and satisfying brunch, this dish is a winner for both beginners and experienced cooks. Get ready to experience a delightful blend of savory and slightly sweet flavors in this easy-to-follow recipe!
Ingredients:
- 2 medium zucchini, grated
- 4 large eggs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives or green onions
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Optional: 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder, pinch of red pepper flakes for extra spice
Instructions:
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Prep the Zucchini: Wash and grate the zucchini using a box grater. Place the grated zucchini in a colander and sprinkle with a teaspoon of salt. Let it sit for about 10 minutes to allow excess moisture to drain. This step is crucial for preventing a watery final dish. After 10 minutes, gently squeeze out any remaining liquid from the zucchini.
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Whisk the Eggs: In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, Parmesan cheese, chives (or green onions), salt, and pepper. If using, add the garlic powder and red pepper flakes at this stage.
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Combine and Cook: Add the squeezed zucchini to the egg mixture and stir well to combine. Heat the olive oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat. Pour the zucchini and egg mixture into the hot skillet.
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Cook to Perfection: Cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the bottom is set and lightly browned. Using a spatula, gently lift the edges of the frittata and tilt the pan to allow uncooked egg to flow underneath. Continue cooking until the eggs are fully cooked through and the zucchini is tender.
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Serve and Enjoy: Once cooked, slide the zucchini and egg frittata onto a plate. Cut into wedges and serve immediately. This dish is delicious on its own or paired with a side salad for a complete and healthy meal.
Tips for the Best Zucchini and Eggs:
- Don't skip the salting: Salting the zucchini helps draw out excess moisture, resulting in a much drier and tastier final dish.
- Use fresh herbs: Fresh chives or green onions add a vibrant flavor that enhances the dish.
- Adjust seasoning to your taste: Feel free to adjust the amount of salt, pepper, and other seasonings to your liking.
- Add-ins: Experiment with adding other vegetables like diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach. Sun-dried tomatoes or feta cheese would also make delicious additions!
Variations:
- Spicy Zucchini and Eggs: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Cheesy Zucchini and Eggs: Increase the amount of Parmesan cheese or add other cheeses like cheddar or mozzarella.
- Herby Zucchini and Eggs: Experiment with different herbs like dill, parsley, or oregano.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 150-200
- Protein: Approximately 10-12 grams
- Fat: Approximately 10-12 grams
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 5-7 grams
This zucchini and eggs recipe is a testament to how simple, healthy, and delicious homemade cooking can be. It’s a perfect example of transforming everyday ingredients into a satisfying and flavorful meal. Enjoy experimenting with different variations and making this recipe your own!