Introduction
Are you looking for a creative way to enjoy courgettes? Look no further! In this article, we will explore a mouthwatering recipe for a baked courgette and feta casserole. Packed with flavor and nutritious ingredients, this dish is perfect for a family dinner or a gathering with friends. We'll guide you through each step of the recipe, from preparing the ingredients to serving the final product. So, let's get started!
Ingredients
To make this delicious baked courgette and feta casserole, you will need the following ingredients:
| Quantity | Ingredient |
|---|---|
| 6 | courgettes (about 325g) |
| 2 | spring onions, finely sliced |
| ½ small bunch | parsley, finely chopped |
| ½ small bunch | mint, finely chopped |
| ½ small bunch | dill, finely chopped, plus extra to serve |
| 4 | eggs |
| 75g | grated halloumi |
| 100g | crumbled feta |
| 2 | garlic cloves, grated |
| 4 tbsp | olive oil, plus extra for the tin |
| 80g | plain flour |
| 1 tsp | baking powder |
| 1 tbsp | toasted sesame seeds, plus extra to serve |
| 1 tbsp | nigella seeds, plus extra to serve |
Note: You can find the complete list of ingredients with their measurements in the reference articles.
Method
Start by preheating your oven to 200C/180C fan/gas 6.
Coarsely grate the courgettes into a clean tea towel, then wrap and squeeze out all of the excess liquid. Transfer the grated courgettes to a colander and set aside to drain completely.
In a large bowl, combine the spring onions, parsley, mint, dill, eggs, grated halloumi, crumbled feta, grated garlic, olive oil, plain flour, baking powder, toasted sesame seeds, and nigella seeds. Mix well to ensure all the ingredients are evenly distributed.
Line a round ovenproof dish or cake tin (approximately 25-26cm) with baking parchment. Drizzle the surface with extra olive oil to prevent sticking. Place the dish in the preheated oven for 5 minutes to heat up.
Carefully remove the dish from the oven and pour the courgette mixture over the hot oil. This will create a beautiful golden brown crust on the bottom of the casserole. Sprinkle the top with additional sesame and nigella seeds for extra flavor and visual appeal.
Bake the casserole for approximately 35 minutes or until the top is golden brown.
Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for at least 20 minutes before serving. This will allow the flavors to meld together and make it easier to slice and serve.
Garnish with fresh dill on top before serving for an extra pop of color and freshness.
Serve the baked courgette and feta casserole as a main dish or as a side alongside your favorite protein or salad.
Enjoy!
Additional Tips and Variations
- To add extra protein to your casserole, you can incorporate cooked chicken, turkey, or even bacon bits.
- For a vegetarian-friendly version, omit the grated halloumi and increase the amount of crumbled feta.
- Experiment with different herbs and spices to suit your taste preferences. Thyme, oregano, or basil can be excellent additions to the recipe.
- Serve the casserole with a dollop of Greek yogurt or a squeeze of lemon juice for a tangy twist.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Conclusion
In conclusion, this baked courgette and feta casserole is a delightful dish that brings together the flavors of courgettes, feta cheese, and aromatic herbs. It is a versatile recipe that can be enjoyed as a main course or a side dish. With its golden brown crust and a creamy, cheesy interior, this casserole is sure to impress your family and friends. So, why not give it a try and add a delicious twist to your next meal? Happy cooking!
*Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only. Ensure you are not allergic to any of the ingredients before trying this recipe.