Imagine a warm, cheesy sandwich with the bonus of tasty, grilled zucchini! This Zucchini Grilled Cheese is not just gooey and delicious, but also a sneaky way to add some veggies to your meal.
Let’s face it, who doesn’t love grilled cheese? The zucchini adds a nice crunch and flavor, making it a fun twist on a classic. I like to serve mine with a side of tomato soup for an extra cozy touch. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: These are the star of the dish! Grating them helps to incorporate their flavor without overwhelming the sandwich. If you’re not a fan of zucchini, try using shredded carrots or even finely chopped spinach for a similar texture.
All-purpose flour: This ingredient helps bind everything together. If you’re gluten-free, almond flour or chickpea flour can be good substitutes. Just be aware that they may slightly alter the texture.
Sharp cheddar cheese: For a great flavor, I love sharp cheddar. If you want something milder, mild cheddar works well too. You can also mix in mozzarella for a gooey consistency or use vegan cheese if you prefer a dairy-free option.
Bread: You can use any bread you like! Sourdough and whole grain are excellent choices. For a gluten-free option, look for gluten-free bread that suits your taste.
Butter: Butter adds a rich flavor to the grilled cheese. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, consider using olive oil or a plant-based butter alternative.
How Do I Make the Zucchini Patties Hold Together?
The key to firm zucchini patties is removing excess moisture. Remember to sprinkle the grated zucchini with salt and let it sit. This helps draw out water, making your patties hold better when cooking. Here’s how to do it:
- Grate the zucchinis and put them in a colander.
- Sprinkle with salt and let it sit for 10-15 minutes.
- Afterwards, press the zucchini with paper towels to remove more moisture.
By doing this, you’ll end up with patties that are easier to flip and keep from falling apart in the pan.
How to Make Zucchini Grilled Cheese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Zucchini Mixture:
- 2 medium zucchinis, grated
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
For The Grilled Cheese:
- 4 slices of bread (your choice: sourdough, whole grain, etc.)
- 2 tablespoons butter (for cooking)
- Additional cheese for filling, if desired
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 30-40 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll spend around 10-15 minutes preparing the zucchini, then about 20-25 minutes cooking the patties and assembling the grilled cheese sandwiches. It’s a fun and simple dish to make!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Zucchini:
Start by grating the zucchinis. Once grated, place them in a colander and sprinkle with salt. Let the zucchini sit for about 10-15 minutes. This helps to draw out excess moisture, which is important for getting crispy patties.
2. Drain and Mix:
After the waiting period, use paper towels to press the zucchini and remove as much liquid as you can. In a mixing bowl, combine the drained zucchini with all-purpose flour, shredded cheddar cheese, the egg, black pepper, and garlic powder (if you like). Mix everything together until it’s well combined. The mixture should be able to hold together; if it feels too wet, just add a little more flour.
3. Cook the Zucchini Patties:
Now, heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add a little butter to the skillet and let it melt to coat the pan. Take about 1/4 of the zucchini mixture and form it into a patty. Place it in the skillet and flatten it slightly. Continue this with the remaining mixture, but make sure not to overcrowd the skillet. Cook the patties for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and crispy. Once done, remove them from the skillet and set aside.
4. Assemble and Grill Your Sandwich:
With all the zucchini patties cooked, it’s time to assemble your grilled cheese! Take one slice of bread and put a zucchini patty on it. If you want extra cheesy goodness, add more cheese on top. Then, place another slice of bread on to make a sandwich. In the same skillet, add more butter and cook the assembled sandwiches for about 2-3 minutes on each side, until the bread is golden and the cheese is melted.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Once your grilled cheese sandwiches are done, remove them from the skillet. You can slice them in half if you’d like, and serve them warm. Enjoy your tasty Zucchini Grilled Cheese!
Can I Use Other Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While sharp cheddar is fantastic, you can easily substitute it with mozzarella, gouda, or even a spicy pepper jack for an extra kick. Just ensure that the cheese melts well to achieve that gooey grilled cheese texture!
How Do I Store Leftover Zucchini Grilled Cheese?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the sandwiches in a skillet over low heat to keep the bread crispy, or you can use the microwave for a quick warm-up, but the bread may become softer.
Can I Use Whole Wheat or Gluten-Free Bread?
Yes, you can use whole wheat bread for a heartier option. For gluten-free, just choose a gluten-free bread variety that you enjoy. Keep in mind that cooking times might vary slightly based on the bread type.
What If My Zucchini Mixture Is Too Wet?
If your zucchini mixture feels too wet, simply add a bit more flour until you reach a consistency that holds together well. Also, make sure to thoroughly squeeze out excess moisture after salting the zucchini to avoid a soggy mixture!
