This Baked Zucchini with Spinach and Feta is a light and flavorful dish, perfect for a healthy side or even a light meal. The combination of fresh zucchini, spinach, and creamy feta cheese, baked to perfection, makes for a delightful and satisfying bite. Plus, it's easy to prepare and packed with nutrients!
Ingredients
2 medium zucchinis, sliced
2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
½ cup feta cheese, crumbled
1 tablespoon olive oil
¼ teaspoon garlic powder
¼ teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Slice the zucchinis into rounds and arrange them on a baking sheet.
Drizzle the olive oil over the zucchini slices and sprinkle with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
Toss the zucchini slices to coat evenly in the seasoning.
Top the zucchini slices with the chopped spinach and crumbled feta cheese.
Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the zucchini is tender and the cheese is golden brown.
Remove from the oven and sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving, if desired.
Servings and Timing
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Variations
If I’m in the mood for a little extra flavor, I sometimes add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat or toss in some sun-dried tomatoes for added sweetness. You could also swap the feta for goat cheese if I’m craving something a bit tangier, or add some roasted nuts for crunch. If I want to make it heartier, I might serve it alongside grilled chicken or quinoa for a more substantial meal.
Storage/Reheating
I usually store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, I pop the dish back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until heated through. You could also microwave it for about 1-2 minutes, though the oven gives it that crispy edge I really enjoy.
FAQs
Can I use frozen spinach for this recipe?
I prefer using fresh spinach because it gives a better texture and flavor, but frozen spinach can work too. Just be sure to thaw it completely and squeeze out any excess water before using it.
Is there a way to make this dish vegan?
Yes! To make this dish vegan, simply swap the feta for a plant-based cheese or leave it out entirely. Nutritional yeast could also be a great alternative for a cheesy flavor without dairy.
Can I add other vegetables to the dish?
Definitely! I’ve added bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or even mushrooms to this dish before. Just make sure to adjust the baking time if you’re adding more vegetables.
How do I know when the zucchini is done?
I check the zucchini by poking it with a fork. It should be tender, and the cheese should be lightly golden brown. If it's not quite there, I give it a few more minutes in the oven.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes! I sometimes prep the zucchini and spinach ahead of time, storing them separately in the fridge. Then I can just assemble everything and bake it when I’m ready. It makes for an easy last-minute meal or side dish!
Conclusion
This Baked Zucchini with Spinach and Feta has quickly become one of my go-to dishes. It's light, full of flavor, and so easy to prepare. Whether I'm making it for a quick weeknight meal or serving it as a side for a gathering, it never disappoints. I love how versatile it is and how it can be adjusted to fit my cravings or dietary preferences. I’m sure it will be a hit in your kitchen too!
Recipe:
Baked Zucchini with Spinach and Feta
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A light and flavorful dish with fresh zucchini, spinach, and creamy feta cheese, baked to perfection. It's a versatile and easy-to-make meal or side dish.
Ingredients
2 medium zucchinis, sliced
2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
½ cup feta cheese, crumbled
1 tablespoon olive oil
¼ teaspoon garlic powder
¼ teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Slice the zucchinis into rounds and arrange them on a baking sheet.
- Drizzle the olive oil over the zucchini slices and sprinkle with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Toss the zucchini slices to coat evenly in the seasoning.
- Top the zucchini slices with the chopped spinach and crumbled feta cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the zucchini is tender and the cheese is golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving, if desired.
Notes
You can add red pepper flakes for extra heat or sun-dried tomatoes for sweetness.
Swap feta for goat cheese or add roasted nuts for extra texture.
For a heartier meal, pair with grilled chicken or quinoa.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Side dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
