I never thought zucchini would work in a quick bread until my neighbor handed me a slice one summer afternoon. This Green Onion Zucchini Cheddar Quick Bread is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. It’s perfect for brunch, a side dish at dinner, or even as a snack throughout the day. The combination of fresh green onions and sharp cheddar adds a delightful twist to the traditional quick bread, making it a standout choice for any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: This bread comes together quickly with minimal prep time, making it perfect for busy days.
- Flavor Packed: The sharp cheddar and green onions elevate the taste, offering a savory treat that everyone will love.
- Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it warm with butter, as a side to soups, or even toasted with your favorite spreads.
- Healthy Twist: Incorporating zucchini adds moisture and nutrients without compromising on flavor.
- Great for Leftovers: This quick bread stores well and can be enjoyed for several days after baking.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start baking your Green Onion Zucchini Cheddar Quick Bread, gather the necessary tools. Having everything ready will streamline your cooking process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Grater
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Whisk
- Loaf pan
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowl: A large mixing bowl allows you to easily combine all ingredients without spilling.
- Grater: A grater is essential for shredding zucchini and cheese quickly and efficiently.
- Loaf pan: A good quality loaf pan ensures even baking and helps achieve that perfect shape.
Ingredients
For the Bread
- 1 1/2 cups shredded zucchini
- 2 cups plain white flour
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp table salt
- 1 cup milk (2%, whole, or nonfat)
- 1 tbsp white or apple cider vinegar
- 1 large egg
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 1 1/2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, grated
- 2 chopped green onions
Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 60 minutes
Total Time: 70 minutes
How to Make Green Onion Zucchini Cheddar Quick Bread
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Make sure it’s fully heated before placing your bread inside for optimal rising.
Step 2: Prepare the Batter
In a mixing bowl:
1. Combine shredded zucchini, flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
2. In another bowl, whisk together milk, vinegar, egg, and melted butter until well blended.
3. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix just until combined. Avoid overmixing.
Step 3: Add Cheese and Onions
Gently fold in:
Grated sharp cheddar cheese
Chopped green onions
Make sure these are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
Step 4: Bake the Bread
Pour the batter into a greased loaf pan. Bake in the preheated oven for about 60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Step 5: Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Slice while warm and enjoy your delicious Green Onion Zucchini Cheddar Quick Bread!
How to Serve Green Onion Zucchini Cheddar Quick Bread
This delightful Green Onion Zucchini Cheddar Quick Bread can be enjoyed in various ways. Its savory flavor pairs well with many dishes, making it a versatile choice for any meal.
As a Breakfast Option
- Serve warm with butter – The melted butter enhances the bread’s richness and flavor.
- Pair with scrambled eggs – A hearty breakfast combo that provides protein and taste.
For Lunch or Dinner
- Accompany a fresh salad – The bread complements greens and vinaigrettes beautifully.
- Use as a side for soups – Perfect with tomato or vegetable soup for a comforting meal.
As a Snack
- Enjoy it plain – The bread is tasty on its own, making it an excellent snack.
- Spread with cream cheese – Adds a creamy texture that contrasts nicely with the bread’s density.
For Special Occasions
- Cut into small squares for appetizers – Ideal for gatherings or parties, served alongside dips.
- Offer as part of a brunch spread – A unique addition to any brunch menu, alongside fruit and pastries.
How to Perfect Green Onion Zucchini Cheddar Quick Bread
To ensure your Green Onion Zucchini Cheddar Quick Bread turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.
- Grate zucchini finely – This helps the zucchini blend smoothly into the batter for a better texture.
- Use room temperature ingredients – Room temperature milk and eggs mix more evenly, improving the batter consistency.
- Don’t overmix – Mixing just until combined prevents tough bread; lumps are okay!
- Check doneness with a toothpick – Insert into the center; if it comes out clean, your bread is ready!
Best Side Dishes for Green Onion Zucchini Cheddar Quick Bread
Green Onion Zucchini Cheddar Quick Bread pairs wonderfully with several side dishes. Here are some excellent options to consider:
- Garden Salad – A mix of fresh greens and vegetables adds crunch and freshness.
- Tomato Soup – This classic pairing warms up any meal, enhancing flavors wonderfully.
- Roasted Vegetables – Seasoned and roasted veggies bring additional nutrients and textures.
- Fruit Salad – A sweet contrast that balances the savory notes of the bread.
- Potato Salad – Creamy potato salad offers depth and richness alongside the bread.
- Hummus Platter – Serve with assorted veggies and crackers for a healthy snack option.
- Cheese Board – Complement the cheddar in the bread with varied cheeses for an indulgent treat.
- Pickled Vegetables – Their tanginess cuts through the richness of the quick bread nicely.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Green Onion Zucchini Cheddar Quick Bread, it’s easy to make small errors that can affect the final product. Here are some common mistakes to steer clear of.
- Using too much zucchini: Adding excess zucchini can make the bread soggy. Stick to the recommended 1 1/2 cups for the best texture.
- Not measuring flour correctly: Spoon and level your flour rather than scooping directly from the bag. This prevents dense or dry bread.
- Skipping the vinegar: The vinegar helps activate the baking soda. Omitting it can lead to insufficient rise. Always include it for a fluffy loaf.
- Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can develop gluten, resulting in tough bread. Stir just until combined for a tender crumb.
- Not letting it cool: Cutting into the bread while it’s hot can lead to a gummy texture. Allow it to cool for at least 10 minutes before slicing.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover Green Onion Zucchini Cheddar Quick Bread in an airtight container.
- It will keep well in the fridge for up to 5 days.
Freezing Green Onion Zucchini Cheddar Quick Bread
- Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap or foil.
- Store in a freezer-safe bag to prevent freezer burn; it lasts up to 3 months.
Reheating Green Onion Zucchini Cheddar Quick Bread
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for about 20-30 seconds.
- Stovetop: Use a skillet over medium-low heat, cover, and warm each side for about 2-3 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Green Onion Zucchini Cheddar Quick Bread.
Can I use other types of cheese?
Yes! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella or pepper jack for a unique flavor twist.
How do I know when my quick bread is done?
Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, it’s ready!
Is this recipe suitable for freezing?
Absolutely! You can freeze slices for up to 3 months without losing flavor or texture.
Can I add herbs or spices?
Definitely! Adding herbs like dill or spices like garlic powder can enhance the flavor profile of your quick bread.
Final Thoughts
This Green Onion Zucchini Cheddar Quick Bread is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it by adding your favorite ingredients like herbs or different cheeses. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a cozy slice that’s perfect any time of day!
Green Onion Zucchini Cheddar Quick Bread
Indulge in the warm, comforting flavors of Green Onion Zucchini Cheddar Quick Bread. This delightful recipe combines the freshness of shredded zucchini with the savory kick of green onions and sharp cheddar cheese, making it a perfect addition to brunch, dinner, or as a satisfying snack. Easy to whip up in just over an hour, this quick bread is moist, flavorful, and versatile enough to pair with soups, salads, or enjoyed on its own. With minimal prep time and straightforward steps, even novice bakers can impress their family and friends with this delicious homemade treat. Whether served warm with butter or toasted with your favorite spreads, this bread is sure to be a hit any time of day.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 8 servings
- Category: Quick Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups shredded zucchini
- 2 cups plain white flour
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp table salt
- 1 cup milk (2%, whole, or nonfat)
- 1 tbsp white or apple cider vinegar
- 1 large egg
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 1 1/2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, grated
- 2 chopped green onions
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine shredded zucchini, flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In another bowl, whisk together milk, vinegar, egg, and melted butter until well blended.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until just combined; do not overmix.
- Fold in grated cheddar cheese and chopped green onions until evenly distributed.
- Pour the batter into a greased loaf pan and bake for about 60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- Allow cooling for 10 minutes before slicing.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (75g)
- Calories: 195
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 380mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
