If you’re looking to transport your taste buds to the heart of Greece without leaving your kitchen, then this Greek casserole with zucchini dumplings is your passport. This dish combines the vibrant flavors of Mediterranean cuisine with the hearty satisfaction of a comforting casserole.
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Greek Casserole with Zucchini Dumplings
🎥Video Recipe:
📖Printable Recipe:
Greek Casserole with Zucchini Dumplings
Ingredients
- 4 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium white onion chopped
- 2 garlic cloves minced
- 1 can white beans drained
- 2 bell peppers chopped
- 400 g 14 oz canned tomatoes
- 1 ½ teaspoon baking powder
- 120 g 4 oz flour
- 200 g 7 oz grated zucchini
- 140 g 5 oz feta
- salt and pepper
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 190C/375F.
- Heat up olive oil in a large skillet, placed over medium heat. saute onions and peppers for 7 minutes. Add white beans, garlic, and canned tomatoes. Bring to a boil, season with salt and pepper.4 tablespoon olive oil, 1 medium white onion, 2 garlic cloves, 2 bell peppers, salt and pepper
- In a large bowl combine flour with baking powder, grated zucchini and feta cheese.1 ½ teaspoon baking powder, 120 g 4 oz flour, 140 g 5 oz feta, 200 g 7 oz grated zucchini
- Transfer boiling tomato and bean mixture into a casserole dish. Place dollops of zucchini batter and top. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 40 minutes.400 g 14 oz canned tomatoes, 1 can white beans
- Remove the foil, poke dumplings with a toothpick to make sure they are cooked through.
- Optionally you can cook dumpling without any foil for 50 minutes or until lightly browned and cooked through.
Video
Nutrition
📋Ingredients
- 4 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium white onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 can white beans, drained
- 2 bell peppers, chopped
- 400 g (14 oz) canned tomatoes
- 1 ½ teaspoon baking powder
- 120 g (4 oz) flour
- 200 g (7 oz) grated zucchini
- 140 g (5 oz) feta
- salt and pepper
🔪How Do I Make It?
Preheat the oven to 190C/375F.
Heat up olive oil in a large skillet, placed over medium heat. saute onions and peppers for 7 minutes. Add white beans, garlic, and canned tomatoes. Bring to a boil, season with salt and pepper.
In a large bowl combine flour with baking powder, grated zucchini and feta cheese.
Transfer boiling tomato and bean mixture into a casserole dish. Place dollops of zucchini batter and top. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 40 minutes.
Remove the foil, poke dumplings with a toothpick to make sure they are cooked through.
Optionally you can cook dumpling without any foil for 50 minutes or until lightly browned and cooked through.
🍽What Do I Serve With This Casserole Dish?
Fresh Greek Salad
Pair your casserole with a fresh Greek salad. This vibrant mix of crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and tangy feta perfectly complements the casserole’s rich flavors.
Lemony Roasted Potatoes
Enhance your meal with lemony roasted potatoes. Their zesty flavor profiles offer a delightful contrast to the comforting nature of the casserole.
Tzatziki Sauce
Add a refreshing touch with a simple tzatziki sauce. This creamy yogurt-based dip made with garlic, cucumber, and a hint of lemon balances the savory dumplings with a cool, creamy bite.
Bread
Don’t forget the bread! A warm, crusty loaf such as classic sourdough or traditional Greek pita is ideal for mopping up any leftover sauce and is the perfect finishing touch to your satisfying meal.
⏲️Chef's Tip
Use Fresh Herbs
For an even more flavorful experience, consider adding a handful of fresh herbs to the casserole before baking. Fresh parsley, dill, or oregano can elevate the dish and make the flavors pop. If you’re feeling adventurous, a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes can add a subtle heat that complements the savory ingredients beautifully.
Preparing Zucchini Dumplings
When preparing the zucchini dumplings, make sure to grate the zucchini finely and squeeze out any excess moisture. This step ensures the dumplings hold their shape and cook evenly. If you find the batter too wet, a small amount of additional flour can help achieve the right consistency.
Achieving a Golden Finish
For a more golden finish on the dumplings, remove the foil during the last 10 minutes of baking. This step allows the tops to brown slightly, adding a delightful texture to each bite.
💭Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! This Greek casserole can be prepared a day in advance. Simply follow the recipe steps until just before baking. Cover the dish and refrigerate, then bake it fresh when you’re ready to serve. This makes it an excellent choice for busy weeknights or when hosting guests.
Is this casserole freezer-friendly?
Yes, this dish freezes well. After baking, allow the casserole to cool completely, then cover tightly with foil or transfer to an airtight container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw the casserole in the refrigerator overnight and reheat it in the oven until warmed through.
Can I substitute the feta cheese in the dumplings?
Certainly! If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, you can use a plant-based feta alternative or omit the cheese entirely. For those who prefer a different flavor, goat cheese or even a mild cheddar can be excellent substitutes, adding a unique twist to the dumplings.
Can I add meat to this casserole for a heartier version?
Yes, adding meat is a great way to enhance the heartiness of the casserole. Ground lamb or beef can be browned and mixed into the tomato sauce for a traditional touch. Alternatively, cooked and shredded chicken could be folded into the casserole for a lighter option. Just ensure that the meat is fully cooked before adding it to maintain safety and flavor consistency.
Are there any vegetarian modifications for this recipe?
Absolutely! This casserole can be easily adapted for vegetarians. Consider adding protein-rich ingredients such as chickpeas or lentils to the sauce for added texture and nutrition. Additionally, other vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers can be included to boost the flavor profile and create a vibrant and wholesome dish.
How can I customize the zucchini dumplings?
To put your spin on the zucchini dumplings, consider incorporating different herbs or spices into the mix. A touch of nutmeg or cumin can lend a subtle yet distinct flavor. You might also experiment with adding grated carrot or sweet potato to the zucchini for a more complex taste and texture, creating a version suited to your personal palate.
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