Golden Mediterranean Zucchini Bake with Spinach, Herbs, and Crumbled Feta Recipe

Introduction

This Golden Mediterranean Zucchini Bake combines tender zucchini, fresh spinach, and flavorful herbs with creamy feta and Parmesan cheeses. It’s a simple, savory dish perfect for a light dinner or a delightful side that brings a touch of the Mediterranean to your table.

Ingredients

• 3 medium zucchinis, thinly sliced
• 3 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
• 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1 small onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 large eggs
• 1/2 cup milk (or cream)
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Olive oil spray for greasing

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a medium baking dish with olive oil spray.
2. Step 2: In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 3 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds more.
3. Step 3: Add the chopped spinach to the skillet and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes. Remove the skillet from heat.
4. Step 4: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk (or cream), Parmesan cheese, oregano, basil, paprika, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
5. Step 5: Layer half of the sliced zucchini in the prepared baking dish. Spread half of the spinach mixture over the zucchini, then sprinkle half of the crumbled feta on top. Repeat the layers with the remaining zucchini, spinach, and feta.
6. Step 6: Pour the egg mixture evenly over the layers, allowing it to settle between them.
7. Step 7: Bake uncovered for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the top is golden and the center is fully set.
8. Step 8: Let the bake rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Tips & Variations

• For a richer flavor, use cream instead of milk in the egg mixture.
• Swap feta for goat cheese or ricotta for a different creamy texture.
• Add chopped fresh herbs like parsley or dill for extra brightness.
• Include a handful of sun-dried tomatoes or olives to deepen the Mediterranean flavors.
• Use a mandoline slicer for evenly thin zucchini slices to ensure even cooking.

Storage

Store any leftover zucchini bake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven at 325°F (160°C) until warmed through, or microwave in short intervals to avoid drying out. This dish is best enjoyed fresh but keeps well for quick meals during the week.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this zucchini bake ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the zucchini bake a few hours before baking. Keep it covered in the refrigerator until ready to bake, then follow the baking instructions as usual.

Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Fresh spinach is preferred for best texture and flavor, but you can substitute frozen spinach. Just be sure to thaw and squeeze out excess water before cooking to avoid a soggy bake.

Golden Mediterranean Zucchini Bake with Spinach, Herbs, and Crumbled Feta Recipe

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★★★★★

4.9 from 586 reviews

This Golden Mediterranean Zucchini Bake is a delightful and healthy casserole featuring layers of thinly sliced zucchini, sautéed spinach with aromatic herbs, and creamy crumbled feta cheese. Baked to a perfect golden brown, it’s a nutritious dish combining fresh Mediterranean flavors with creamy textures, ideal for a satisfying vegetarian meal.

• Author: Sana
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Category: Casserole
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Mediterranean
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Vegetables

• 3 medium zucchinis, thinly sliced
• 3 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
• 1 small onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced

Dairy & Eggs

• 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 3 large eggs
• 1/2 cup milk (or cream)
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Oils & Seasonings

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Olive oil spray for greasing

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a medium baking dish with olive oil spray to prevent sticking and promote even browning.
2. Sauté Aromatics: In a skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 3 minutes until softened and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
3. Cook Spinach: Add the roughly chopped spinach to the skillet with the onions and garlic. Cook until the spinach wilts, approximately 2 minutes. Remove the skillet from heat to cool slightly.
4. Prepare Egg Mixture: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk (or cream), grated Parmesan cheese, dried oregano, dried basil, paprika, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
5. Layer the Casserole: Begin by layering half of the thinly sliced zucchini evenly on the bottom of the greased baking dish. Spread half of the spinach mixture over the zucchini, then sprinkle half of the crumbled feta cheese on top. Repeat the layering with the remaining zucchini slices, spinach mixture, and crumbled feta.
6. Add Egg Mixture: Pour the prepared egg mixture evenly over the layered ingredients in the baking dish. Tilt the dish slightly if needed to help the mixture settle and evenly coat the layers.
7. Bake: Place the casserole uncovered in the preheated oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes. Bake until the top turns a beautiful golden color and the center is set and firm to the touch.
8. Rest and Serve: Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes. This allows the bake to set further and makes it easier to slice. Serve warm as a main or side dish.

Notes

• You can substitute milk with cream for a richer texture.
• Use fresh herbs instead of dried if available, adjusting quantities to taste.
• This dish can be made ahead and reheated; leftovers keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• For a gluten-free meal, ensure that Parmesan cheese is certified gluten-free.
• Adding a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts or chopped walnuts on top before serving adds a nice crunch.

Keywords: Zucchini bake, Mediterranean casserole, spinach feta bake, baked vegetable dish, vegetarian casserole