Zucchini and Cheese Pie Recipe: A Delightful Savory Treat
Ingredients
For the Filling:
- Zucchini: 500 g (1.1 lbs), grated
- Green Onions: 1 bunch, chopped
- Dill: 1 bunch, chopped
- Cheese: 50 g (1.8 oz), grated
- Eggs: 4, beaten
- Salt and Pepper: To taste
For the Batter:
- Flour: 250 g (2 cups)
- Kefir: 300 ml (1 1/4 cups)
- Eggs: 3
- Baking Powder: 2 level teaspoons
- Vegetable Oil: 50 ml (3.4 tablespoons)
- Salt and Pepper: To taste
For Decoration:
- Sesame Seeds: As desired
Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Based on 10 Servings)
- Calories: 210
- Protein: 7 g
- Carbohydrates: 21 g
- Sugars: 2 g
- Fat: 11 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Cholesterol: 95 mg
- Sodium: 190 mg
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
- Grate the zucchini into a large bowl and lightly squeeze out excess water to prevent the pie from becoming too watery.
- Chop the green onions and dill finely.
- In a bowl, mix the grated zucchini, chopped green onions, dill, and grated cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Beat 4 eggs and add them to the zucchini mixture, stirring well to combine. This mixture will form the savory filling for your pie.
Step 2: Make the Batter
- In a separate large bowl, beat the remaining 3 eggs.
- Add the kefir and vegetable oil to the eggs, whisking until smooth and well combined.
- Gradually add the flour and baking powder, mixing thoroughly to form a smooth batter. Ensure there are no lumps in the batter for an even texture.
- Season the batter with salt and pepper according to your taste preferences.
Step 3: Combine and Assemble
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (356°F).
- Grease a baking dish or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Pour half of the batter into the baking dish, spreading it evenly to form the base layer.
- Spoon the zucchini filling over the batter layer, spreading it evenly to cover the base.
- Pour the remaining batter over the top, smoothing it out to cover the filling completely.
Step 4: Bake the Pie
- Sprinkle sesame seeds on top for a decorative touch and extra flavor.
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 40-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the pie to cool slightly before cutting into squares or slices. This will make it easier to cut and serve.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
- Serve warm or at room temperature. This pie is perfect as a snack, appetizer, or a light meal.
- Pair with a side salad or a dollop of sour cream for added freshness and flavor.
Tips for Success
- Remove Excess Moisture: Grating the zucchini and squeezing out the excess moisture is crucial to avoid a soggy pie. You can use a clean kitchen towel or paper towel to squeeze the grated zucchini.
- Cheese Variety: Use your favorite cheese for this recipe. A sharp cheese like cheddar or gouda adds a nice contrast to the mild zucchini.
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the batter for a spicy kick.
- Fresh Herbs: If dill is not available, fresh parsley or basil can be used for a different but equally delicious flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions
- As a Snack: Serve as finger food at a party or as a quick snack during the day.
- For Breakfast: Pair it with scrambled eggs or a fresh fruit salad for a balanced breakfast.
- Light Lunch or Dinner: Accompany with a fresh salad or a bowl of soup for a satisfying light meal.
Storage and Reheating Tips
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 180°C (356°F) for about 10 minutes or in the microwave for 1-2 minutes until warmed through.