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Baked zucchini with feta cheese captures the essence of Mediterranean cuisine. This simple yet elegant dish combines tender roasted zucchini with creamy, salty feta for a perfect balance of flavors. The recipe transforms basic ingredients into a satisfying meal that brings warmth and comfort to any table.
Each time this dish emerges from the oven, the aromatic blend of herbs and melted feta creates an irresistible invitation to the table.
Essential Ingredients
- Zucchini (4 medium) - Select firm, glossy specimens for best results. Fresh, local zucchini offer superior flavor and texture
- Authentic Feta (200g) - Use genuine Greek PDO feta for its distinctive tangy flavor and creamy texture
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil - Choose a high-quality, cold-pressed variety to enhance the Mediterranean flavors
- Fresh Thyme - Fresh herbs make a significant difference in the final taste profile
Detailed Preparation Steps
- 1. Zucchini Preparation
- Wash zucchini thoroughly and slice into 1cm half-moons for optimal cooking
- Ensure uniform thickness for even roasting
- 2. Seasoning
- Coat zucchini gently with olive oil in a large bowl
- Incorporate fresh thyme leaves, slightly crushed to release their oils
- 3. Assembly
- Arrange zucchini in a single layer in an oven-safe dish
- Crumble feta in varying sizes over the top
- 4. Baking
- Bake at 180°C until zucchini is tender and feta begins to brown
- Check doneness at 25 minutes
Presentation Elements
Allow the dish to rest briefly before serving. A final drizzle of olive oil and fresh thyme leaves adds both visual appeal and flavor depth.
Serving Temperature
Serve slightly warm rather than piping hot. A 5-7 minute rest allows the flavors to fully develop and the feta to achieve the perfect consistency.
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Texture Balance
The contrast between tender zucchini and creamy feta creates the signature appeal of this dish. Maintain some firmness in the zucchini for optimal texture.
The beauty of Mediterranean cooking lies in its simplicity and respect for quality ingredients. This dish exemplifies that tradition, creating something extraordinary from ordinary components. Every element plays its part in a harmonious blend of flavors and textures that transport you to sun-drenched coastal kitchens.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I swap the feta for another cheese?
- Definitely! Manouri works wonderfully, or try some salty ricotta for a different twist.
- → What’s the best type of zucchini to pick?
- Look for small, firm zucchinis. They have less water and yield better results when baked.
- → Is this dish suitable for prepping ahead?
- Yes, it can be gently reheated in the oven. But hold off on the lemon zest until you’re about to serve.
- → What if my zucchinis release too much water?
- You can salt them about 30 minutes beforehand to draw out excess water, then pat them dry.
- → How should I serve this plate?
- Enjoy it solo with toasted bread, as a side, or mix it with pasta for a filling main course.