This mouthwatering zucchini soufflé with Monterey Jack cheese is a perfect dish for a special occasion or a hearty family meal. It's packed with flavors and has a light, fluffy texture that will impress your guests. The combination of zucchini and creamy Monterey Jack cheese creates a harmony of flavors that will leave you wanting more. This recipe requires a bit of effort, but the end result is definitely worth it. Enjoy this delightful dish with a side salad or as a main course.
Ingredients
- 3 medium zucchini
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup milk
- 4 eggs, separated
- 1 cup grated Monterey Jack cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch (23 cm) round baking dish and set aside.
- Grate the zucchini using a box grater and squeeze out any excess moisture using a clean kitchen towel or paper towels.
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the grated zucchini and cook for 5 minutes, until softened.
- Sprinkle the flour over the zucchini and stir well to combine. Cook for an additional 2 minutes.
- Slowly pour in the milk while stirring constantly. Cook until the mixture thickens and comes to a simmer.
- Remove the skillet from heat and let it cool slightly.
- In a separate bowl, beat the egg yolks until smooth. Gradually add the egg yolks to the zucchini mixture, stirring well after each addition.
- Stir in the grated Monterey Jack cheese, salt, black pepper, paprika, and dried oregano.
- In a clean bowl, beat the egg whites using a hand mixer until stiff peaks form.
- Gently fold the beaten egg whites into the zucchini mixture until well combined.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and smooth the top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, until the soufflé is puffed and golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.
- Serve the zucchini soufflé warm as a side dish or as a main course with a side salad.
Interesting Facts
Zucchini is a versatile vegetable that is low in calories and high in fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
Monterey Jack cheese is a semi-hard cheese that originated in Monterey, California in the 19th century.
Soufflé is a French dish that is known for its light and airy texture, achieved by incorporating beaten egg whites.