Green Onion Zucchini Cheddar Quick Bread

If you’re looking for a delightful and easy-to-make treat, let me introduce you to my beloved Green Onion Zucchini Cheddar Quick Bread. This recipe has become a staple in my home, especially during the summer months when zucchinis are in full swing. The combination of fresh zucchini, sharp cheddar cheese, and vibrant green onions creates a flavor explosion that is hard to resist!

What makes this quick bread so special is its versatility. Whether you’re preparing for a busy weeknight dinner, hosting family gatherings, or simply craving a savory snack, this recipe fits the bill perfectly. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to sneak in some veggies without anyone noticing!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just about 10 minutes of prep time. Perfect for those evenings when you want something homemade but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen!
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will adore the cheesy flavor and soft texture of this bread. It’s an excellent addition to any meal!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can whip up this Green Onion Zucchini Cheddar Quick Bread ahead of time. Store it in an airtight container for quick snacks all week long.
• Flavorful Ingredients: Each bite is packed with the goodness of zucchini and the richness of cheddar cheese, making it not only tasty but also wholesome.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering your ingredients for this Green Onion Zucchini Cheddar Quick Bread is super simple! You’ll find everything you need at your local grocery store. These wholesome items come together beautifully to create a delicious loaf.

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

Variations

The beauty of this recipe lies in its flexibility! Feel free to play around with different ingredients based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

• Add Some Spice: Toss in some chopped jalapeños or red pepper flakes for a kick!
• Herb It Up: Mix in fresh herbs like dill or chives for an extra layer of flavor.
• Cheese Swap: If sharp cheddar isn’t your favorite, try using mozzarella or pepper jack cheese instead.
• Make It Whole Grain: Substitute half of the white flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier twist.

How to Make Green Onion Zucchini Cheddar Quick Bread

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial because it ensures that your bread bakes evenly and rises beautifully as soon as it hits the heat.

Step 2: Prepare Your Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the plain white flour, baking powder, baking soda, and table salt. Whisk these dry ingredients together until they are well mixed. This helps prevent clumping and ensures an even rise throughout your bread.

Step 3: Mix Your Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the milk, vinegar, egg, and melted butter. It’s important to mix these thoroughly as this will help activate the baking powder when combined with the dry ingredients later.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Pour the wet mixture into the bowl with your dry ingredients. Gently stir until just combined—be careful not to overmix! A few lumps are perfectly fine; they will disappear as it bakes.

Step 5: Fold in Zucchini and Cheese

Now comes the fun part! Gently fold in the shredded zucchini, grated cheddar cheese, and chopped green onions into your batter. This step adds all that delicious flavor we love!

Step 6: Bake Until Golden Brown

Pour your batter into a greased loaf pan and smooth out the top. Bake in your preheated oven for about 60 minutes or until golden brown on top and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will be irresistible!

Step 7: Cool and Enjoy!

Once baked, allow your quick bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Letting it cool slightly enhances its texture—then slice away! Enjoy your Green Onion Zucchini Cheddar Quick Bread warm or at room temperature; it’s perfect either way!

Pro Tips for Making Green Onion Zucchini Cheddar Quick Bread

Baking this delightful quick bread is a breeze, especially with a few handy tips to ensure it turns out perfectly every time!

• Grate your zucchini finely: This helps the zucchini blend seamlessly into the batter, resulting in a moist texture without large chunks. Plus, it makes it less noticeable for picky eaters!

• Let the shredded zucchini drain: Before mixing it into your batter, place the shredded zucchini in a clean kitchen towel and squeeze out excess moisture. This prevents the bread from becoming soggy.

• Use fresh green onions: Fresh green onions provide a vibrant flavor that elevates the taste of your quick bread. Look for firm stalks with bright green tops for the best results.

• Test for doneness with a toothpick: Insert a toothpick into the center of the loaf; if it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs attached, your bread is ready. This ensures you won’t end up with an undercooked center.

• Store properly for freshness: Keep any leftover bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, or refrigerate to extend its shelf life. You can also freeze slices for up to three months—just thaw them as needed!

How to Serve Green Onion Zucchini Cheddar Quick Bread

This Green Onion Zucchini Cheddar Quick Bread is versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways, making it perfect for breakfast, lunch, or as a snack throughout the day.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh herbs: Sprinkle some parsley or chives on top of each slice right before serving for an added pop of color and flavor.
• Sour cream or Greek yogurt: A dollop of sour cream or yogurt adds creaminess and a tangy contrast that complements the cheesy goodness of the bread.

Side Dishes

• Simple Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette pairs beautifully with the richness of the bread while adding freshness.

• Vegetable Soup: A warm bowl of vegetable soup serves as a hearty side that balances well with this savory quick bread. The broth enhances the flavors beautifully!

• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted seasonal vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, and squash add depth to your meal and make it colorful and nutritious.

• Fruit Salad: For something sweeter, serve this quick bread alongside a refreshing fruit salad. The natural sweetness of fruits contrasts nicely with the savory elements of the bread.

With these serving suggestions and tips at your fingertips, you’re all set to create an unforgettable meal featuring your Green Onion Zucchini Cheddar Quick Bread!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Green Onion Zucchini Cheddar Quick Bread is a fantastic meal prep option! You can whip it up in no time, and it stores beautifully, making it perfect for busy days ahead.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the quick bread to cool completely before wrapping.
• Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer storage, refrigerate it for up to a week.

Freezing

• Slice the bread into individual portions for easy thawing.
• Wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place the wrapped slices in a freezer-safe bag or container and store for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen slices overnight in the refrigerator or at room temperature.
• Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Alternatively, you can microwave each slice on medium power for 30-45 seconds.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delightful recipe:

Can I make Green Onion Zucchini Cheddar Quick Bread without an egg?

Yes! You can substitute the egg with a flaxseed meal mixture. Combine 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal with 2.5 tablespoons of water and let it sit for a few minutes until it thickens.

How do I ensure my Green Onion Zucchini Cheddar Quick Bread is moist?

To keep your quick bread moist, make sure not to overmix the batter. Also, using freshly shredded zucchini helps retain moisture, so avoid squeezing out too much water from it.

Can I use different types of cheese in this recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with other cheeses such as mozzarella or gouda, but keep in mind that sharp cheddar gives the best flavor profile!

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

This quick bread pairs wonderfully with soups or salads. You can also enjoy it as a snack on its own or topped with your favorite spreads!

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited to make this Green Onion Zucchini Cheddar Quick Bread as I was when I first tried it! It’s not only easy to prepare but also brings a delightful twist to your everyday meals. Enjoy every bite, and don’t hesitate to share your experiences or variations! Happy baking!