Are you looking for a quick, healthy, and incredibly flavorful dinner recipe? Look no further! This zucchini and feta cheese bake is the perfect solution for busy weeknights. It’s a simple dish that’s packed with fresh flavors and requires minimal cleanup—a win-win for any home cook. This recipe is a celebration of fresh ingredients, highlighting the delicate sweetness of zucchini perfectly complemented by the salty tang of feta cheese. It's a healthy meal option, perfect for those following a Mediterranean diet or simply looking for delicious dishes that are good for you. Get ready to elevate your weeknight dinner game with this easy-to-follow recipe!
Ingredients:
- 2 medium zucchini, sliced into half-moons
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 1/4 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
Instructions:
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Prep the Zucchini: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Wash and slice the zucchini into half-moons, about 1/4 inch thick. Try to slice them evenly for consistent cooking.
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Sauté the Garlic: Heat the olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as this will make it bitter.
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Cook the Zucchini: Add the zucchini slices to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they start to soften slightly. Don't overcook; you want them to retain a bit of their texture.
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Assemble and Bake: Stir in the lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Sprinkle the feta cheese and chopped dill evenly over the zucchini. If using, add the halved cherry tomatoes at this stage.
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Bake to Perfection: Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the zucchini is tender and the feta cheese is melted and slightly golden brown. Keep a close eye on it during the last few minutes to prevent burning.
Tips for the Best Zucchini and Feta Bake:
- Choose young zucchini: Young zucchini are usually more tender and have fewer seeds.
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Ensure there’s enough space between the zucchini slices for even cooking. You may need to cook them in batches if necessary.
- Adjust seasoning to your taste: Feel free to add more or less salt, pepper, garlic, or dill depending on your preference. A pinch of red pepper flakes adds a nice kick.
- Serve immediately: This dish is best enjoyed hot and fresh from the oven.
Variations:
- Add protein: Include some cooked chicken, chickpeas, or crumbled sausage for a heartier meal.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Use different herbs: Experiment with other fresh herbs like oregano, thyme, or parsley.
- Add other cheeses: Try substituting or adding other cheeses like goat cheese or Parmesan.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and will vary based on the specific ingredients used and serving size.
- Calories: Approximately 200-250
- Fat: 15-20g
- Protein: 5-7g
- Carbohydrates: 10-15g
This easy recipe is a fantastic addition to your repertoire of quick dinner ideas and healthy meals. The combination of zucchini and feta cheese creates a symphony of flavors that is both satisfying and surprisingly light. Enjoy this delicious and healthy homemade cooking experience!