Mediterranean Zucchini Bread | Easy + Healthy + Sugar Free

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Table of contents:

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How to Make Mediterranean Zucchini Bread

Ingredients

• 1 zucchini, grated (400g / 14oz.)
• 3 large eggs
• ¼ cup Extra virgin olive oil
• 1 lemon, zested
• 1½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• ⅓  cup black pitted olives, chopped
• ½ cup feta cheese, crumbled
• ¼ cup sun-dried tomato, chopped
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• Fresh parsley (optional)
• Salt and pepper (to taste)

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Equipment

• Parchment paper
• Large Glass bowl 
• Loaf pan (8×4 inches)
• Box Grater
• Oven
• Wooden spatula

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 180°C / 350°F
2. Grate zucchini and squeeze off excess liquid. Set aside for 5 minutes (Alternatively: Season with salt and pat down with paper towel).
3. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs with a pinch of seasoning.
4. Add the other ingredients and gently fold the mixture until combined, this should take 2-3 minutes by hand (do not use an electric mixer for this step). 
5. Line an 8×4 inch loaf pan with parchment paper.
6. Transfer this mixture to your loaf pan and spread out evenly. 
7. Bake for 45 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. 
8. Remove from oven and allow it to rest for 15 minutes before removing from the pan. It should just lift out with the parchment paper. 
9. Slice into 1-inch pieces and serve while still warm. 

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Cooking tips:

Squeeze out excess moisture: Zucchini holds a lot of water, which can make your bread soggy. There are two methods to remove excess water from zucchini. 

• Method 1: After grating the zucchini, place it in a clean towel or cheesecloth and squeeze out as much moisture as possible before adding it to the batter. 
• Method 2: Lightly salt the zucchini once it has been grated. Wait 15 minutes then use some paper towel to remove the excess water from zucchini. 

Don’t overmix the batter: Don’t use an electric mixer. Gently fold the ingredients together by hand using a spatula or large spoon until just combined. Overmixing can lead to dense or tough bread instead of the light, fluffy texture you want.

Use fresh herbs: Fresh oregano, basil, or thyme will add an aromatic burst of flavor. If you don’t have fresh herbs, dried ones work, but reduce the quantity (usually 1 teaspoon of dried herbs equals 1 tablespoon of fresh).

Balance the saltiness: If using feta cheese, be mindful of added salt. Feta can be quite salty, so taste as you go, especially if you’re also using sun-dried tomatoes or olives.

Line your pan: For easier removal and to prevent sticking, line your loaf pan with parchment paper or grease it well. This ensures your zucchini bread will come out in one piece.

Add texture with toppings: Sprinkle some sesame seeds, pine nuts, or even a bit of extra grated cheese on top before baking. It adds a delicious crunch and extra visual appeal.
Let it cool properly: After baking, let the bread cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. This will help it firm up and prevent it from crumbling when sliced.

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Healthy and Sugar-Free Mediterranean Snack

Mediterranean Zucchini Bread is a healthy snack because it incorporates nutrient-dense ingredients that are staples of the Mediterranean diet, known for its heart-healthy benefits. Here’s why it stands out:

1. Zucchini: This low-calorie vegetable is rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals like potassium and vitamin C. It adds moisture and nutrients without the need for excess fats or sugars.
2. Olive oil: Often used in Mediterranean cooking, olive oil is a healthier fat option, packed with monounsaturated fats that support heart health and reduce inflammation. 

Discover more about the benefits of using olive oil in your cooking with this article: The role of olive oil in a healthy diet

3. Feta cheese: While it adds a delicious tangy flavor, feta is also a good source of protein and calcium. It’s lower in fat compared to many other cheeses, and its strong flavor means a little goes a long way.
4. Herbs and spices: Ingredients like oregano, basil, and thyme provide powerful antioxidants and anti-inflammatory benefits, adding flavor without relying on excess salt or unhealthy additives. Find more information about Herbs and spices used in Mediterranean cuisine here in this article. 
5. Whole grains: If made with whole wheat flour or other whole grain options, the bread offers more fiber, which promotes digestion, keeps you fuller longer, and helps regulate blood sugar.
6. Low in sugar: Unlike traditional zucchini bread which tends to be sweeter, Mediterranean-style recipes tend to keep the sugar low (or no-added sugars like this recipe), making this a great option for those looking to avoid sugar spikes.

Together, these ingredients make Mediterranean Zucchini Bread a wholesome, flavorful snack that’s not only delicious but also packed with nutrients that align with the principles of the Mediterranean diet, promoting overall health and well-being.

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Nutrition Facts

Servings: 8
Amount per serving
Calories	247
% Daily Value*
Total Fat 14.5g	19%
Saturated Fat 3.6g	18%
Cholesterol 81mg	27%
Sodium 489mg	21%
Total Carbohydrate 22g	8%
Dietary Fiber 1.6g	6%
Total Sugars 1.6g
Protein 7.8g
Vitamin D 7mcg	33%
Calcium 117mg	9%
Iron 4mg	20%
Potassium 300mg	6%
*The % Daily Value (DV) tells you how much a nutrient in a food serving contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calorie a day is used for general nutrition advice.

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More Healthy Mediterranean Vegetarian Recipes:

• How to Make Shakshuka (Healthy Vegetarian Breakfast Recipe)
• Spanish Padron Peppers Recipe (Pimientos de Padrón)
• Mediterranean Potato Salad – No Mayo – Healthy VEGAN Potato Salad Recipe
• Caprese Salad (Insalata Caprese) How to make this classic Italian Salad Recipe
• Beet and Quinoa Salad with a Lime and Mustard dressing
• Creamy Mediterranean Hummus | Authentic & Healthy Recipe

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