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Baked zucchini with feta cheese captures the essence of Mediterranean cooking. This simple yet elegant dish combines tender roasted zucchini with creamy, salty feta for a taste that transports you straight to a Greek taverna. In my kitchen, it has become a cherished summer staple that brings back memories of sun-drenched meals by the sea.
Every time I make this dish for guests, they're amazed by how the humble zucchini transforms into something truly special.
Key Ingredients
- Zucchini (4 medium) - Choose firm, glossy specimens with bright skin. Local, in-season zucchini offer the best flavor
- Authentic Feta (200g) - Use genuine Greek PDO feta made from sheep's milk for superior taste and texture
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil - Select a high-quality, cold-pressed variety to enhance the Mediterranean flavors
- Fresh Thyme - Fresh herbs are essential for their aromatic properties and visual appeal
Preparation Method
- 1. Preparing the Zucchini
- Wash zucchini thoroughly and slice into uniform 1cm half-moons
- This precise thickness ensures proper roasting while maintaining texture
- 2. Seasoning
- Toss zucchini with olive oil until well coated
- Add fresh thyme leaves, slightly crushed to release oils
- 3. Assembly
- Arrange zucchini in a single layer in an oven-safe dish
- Crumble feta over top in varying sizes
- 4. Baking
- Bake at 180°C until zucchini are tender and feta starts to brown
- Check doneness at 25 minutes
Presentation
Let the dish rest briefly after baking. A final drizzle of olive oil and fresh thyme leaves adds the perfect finishing touch.
Serving Temperature
Serve slightly warm rather than piping hot to allow the flavors to fully develop. A 5-7 minute rest achieves the ideal temperature.
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Texture Balance
The contrasting textures of tender zucchini and creamy feta create a satisfying mouthfeel. Maintain some firmness in the zucchini for the best eating experience.
This Mediterranean dish exemplifies how simple ingredients, properly prepared, can create something extraordinary. The combination of fresh vegetables, quality feta, and aromatic herbs results in a dish that's both comforting and sophisticated.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use a different cheese instead of feta?
- Absolutely! Manouri is a great alternative, or you could also try salted ricotta.
- → How do I pick the right zucchini?
- Go for small, firm zucchinis—they’re less watery and will give the best results when cooked.
- → Can I prep this dish ahead of time?
- Yes, you can! Gently reheat it in the oven, but don’t add the lemon zest until right before serving.
- → What if my zucchini releases too much water?
- You can let them sit with a little salt for about 30 minutes, then pat them completely dry before baking.
- → How should I serve this?
- Enjoy it on its own with toasted bread or use it as a side. You can even mix it with pasta for a fuller meal.