Green Onion Zucchini Cheddar Quick Bread

I never thought zucchini would work in a quick bread until my neighbor handed me a slice one summer afternoon. The Green Onion Zucchini Cheddar Quick Bread is moist, flavorful, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re enjoying it for breakfast, serving it alongside soup, or using it as a delightful snack, this quick bread delivers on taste and texture. Its standout qualities include the mild sweetness of zucchini and the sharpness of cheddar, making it a unique dish that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This quick bread comes together in just about 10 minutes of prep time.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of zucchini, green onions, and sharp cheddar creates a delightful flavor profile.
• Versatile Use: Enjoy it as breakfast, a snack, or a side dish with your favorite meal.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with zucchini and made with simple ingredients, it’s a healthier option than many store-bought breads.
• Great for Leftovers: This bread stays fresh for days and can even be frozen for later enjoyment.

Tools and Preparation

To make the Green Onion Zucchini Cheddar Quick Bread, you will need some essential tools to ensure everything goes smoothly during preparation.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Grater
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Loaf pan
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: These are crucial for combining dry and wet ingredients effectively.
• Loaf pan: A good quality loaf pan ensures even baking and easy removal from the oven.

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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). This step is important to ensure even cooking throughout the bread.

Step 2: Prepare the Zucchini

Using a grater, shred your zucchini. If it’s very watery, press it lightly with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Set aside.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine the following:
1. 2 cups plain white flour
2. 2 tsp baking powder
3. 1/2 tsp baking soda
4. 1/2 tsp table salt

Whisk these ingredients together until well combined.

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, mix:
1. 1 cup milk
2. 1 tbsp white or apple cider vinegar
3. 1 large egg
4. 3 tbsp melted unsalted butter

Whisk until smooth.

Step 5: Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the wet mixture into the dry ingredients while folding gently. Be careful not to over-mix; a few lumps are okay!

Step 6: Add Cheese and Zucchini

Fold in:
– 1 1/2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, grated
– 2 chopped green onions

Mix until evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Step 7: Pour into Loaf Pan

Pour the mixture into a greased loaf pan. Smooth out the top with a spatula if needed.

Step 8: Bake

Place in the preheated oven and bake for about 60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 9: Cool and Serve

Once baked, let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and enjoy your delicious Green Onion Zucchini Cheddar Quick Bread!

How to Serve Green Onion Zucchini Cheddar Quick Bread

This delightful quick bread pairs well with various dishes and can be enjoyed in multiple ways. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your experience with Green Onion Zucchini Cheddar Quick Bread.

With a Fresh Salad

• A light garden salad brings freshness that balances the richness of the bread.
• Try it with a citrus vinaigrette for a zesty contrast.

As a Breakfast Item

• Toast slices lightly and top them with avocado or cream cheese for a hearty breakfast.
• Serve alongside scrambled eggs for a filling morning meal.

Accompanied by Soup

• Pair this bread with a warm bowl of tomato soup for a comforting combination.
• It also goes well with creamy vegetable soups, providing a nice texture contrast.

Enjoyed as a Snack

• Cut into small squares and enjoy as a savory snack during the day.
• Serve with hummus or your favorite dip for added flavor.

With Cheese Platter

• Include slices of this quick bread on a cheese board for entertaining guests.
• Combine it with different cheeses and olives for an elegant touch.

How to Perfect Green Onion Zucchini Cheddar Quick Bread

Achieving the perfect Green Onion Zucchini Cheddar Quick Bread is easy with these helpful tips. Follow these suggestions to enhance flavor and texture.

• Use Fresh Zucchini: Grate fresh zucchini just before use to retain moisture and flavor.
• Squeeze Excess Water: After grating, squeeze out excess liquid from the zucchini. This prevents the bread from becoming too soggy.
• Shred Cheese Yourself: Grate sharp cheddar cheese yourself for better melting and flavor compared to pre-packaged cheese.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix the batter until just combined. Overmixing can lead to dense bread instead of light and fluffy.
• Check Doneness Early: Test the bread 5 minutes early by inserting a toothpick. If it comes out clean, it’s done!
• Store Properly: Keep any leftovers in an airtight container to maintain freshness for up to three days.

Best Side Dishes for Green Onion Zucchini Cheddar Quick Bread

Green Onion Zucchini Cheddar Quick Bread complements many side dishes, making it versatile for any meal. Here are some great options:

1. Mixed Greens Salad: A simple salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette adds freshness to your meal.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables provide robust flavors that pair beautifully with the quick bread.
3. Grilled Chicken Skewers: Tender chicken skewers seasoned simply can be an excellent protein addition beside the bread.
4. Chickpea Salad: A refreshing chickpea salad tossed in lemon juice offers protein and fiber alongside your quick bread.
5. Vegetable Stir-Fry: A colorful vegetable stir-fry brings crunch and nutrients that complement the softness of the bread.
6. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs make for a satisfying side that contrasts nicely with the soft texture of the quick bread.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding mistakes can make your baking experience smoother and more enjoyable. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for:

• Skipping the zucchini prep: Not properly shredding or draining the zucchini can lead to excess moisture in the bread. Make sure to squeeze out the excess water before adding it to the mixture.

• Ignoring measurements: Incorrectly measuring ingredients can ruin your quick bread’s texture. Use a kitchen scale or proper measuring cups for accuracy.

• Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can result in tough bread. Stir just until ingredients are combined; a few lumps are okay.

• Not preheating the oven: Baking in an unheated oven can affect rising. Always preheat your oven to ensure even baking.

• Using outdated baking powder: Expired baking powder won’t give your bread the rise it needs. Check the expiration date before using.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Allow the bread to cool completely before sealing it.

Freezing Green Onion Zucchini Cheddar Quick Bread

• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil for best results.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Green Onion Zucchini Cheddar Quick Bread

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices for about 20-30 seconds on high, checking for doneness.
• Stovetop: Place slices in a skillet over low heat, flipping occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you’re curious about this recipe, here are some common questions that might help you!

Can I use other cheeses besides cheddar?

You can absolutely substitute different cheeses! Try mozzarella, gouda, or pepper jack for a unique twist.

How do I make Green Onion Zucchini Cheddar Quick Bread gluten-free?

Use a gluten-free flour blend instead of plain white flour. Ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free as well.

How can I customize my Green Onion Zucchini Cheddar Quick Bread?

Feel free to add herbs like dill or basil, or throw in some chopped bell peppers or jalapeños for extra flavor.

What should I serve with Green Onion Zucchini Cheddar Quick Bread?

This quick bread pairs wonderfully with soups, salads, or as a snack on its own!

Final Thoughts

Green Onion Zucchini Cheddar Quick Bread is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. It makes a perfect side dish or a standalone snack. You can easily customize this recipe by adding your favorite herbs or vegetables. Give it a try and enjoy a unique twist on traditional quick bread!