Green Onion Zucchini Cheddar Quick Bread

If you’re looking for a delightful twist on your classic quick bread, you’ve come to the right place! This Green Onion Zucchini Cheddar Quick Bread has quickly become a family favorite in my home. I never thought zucchini would work so well in a bread until my neighbor handed me a slice one summer afternoon. The combination of flavors and textures is simply irresistible. Whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a cozy family gathering, this quick bread is perfect for any occasion.

What makes this recipe truly special is how simple it is to whip up. You’ll find that it pairs wonderfully with soups, salads, or even as a snack on its own. Plus, your kitchen will smell heavenly while it bakes!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to prepare: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can have this delicious bread in the oven before you know it!
• Family-friendly: The cheesy goodness and sneaky veggies make it a hit with both kids and adults alike.
• Make-ahead convenience: Bake it in advance and enjoy it throughout the week—perfect for meal prep!
• Delicious flavor: The combination of sharp cheddar and fresh green onions gives this bread a savory kick that’s hard to resist.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple, wholesome ingredients! This Green Onion Zucchini Cheddar Quick Bread uses everyday items that you probably already have in your pantry.

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

One of the best parts about this recipe is its flexibility! You can easily customize it to suit your taste or what you have on hand.

• Add herbs: Toss in some chopped fresh herbs like basil or parsley for an extra layer of flavor.
• Use different cheeses: Swap sharp cheddar for mozzarella or pepper jack for a milder or spicier version.
• Incorporate other veggies: Try adding grated carrots or bell peppers for added color and nutrition.
• Make it gluten-free: Substitute the plain white flour with your favorite gluten-free blend to accommodate dietary needs.

How to Make Green Onion Zucchini Cheddar Quick Bread

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Before we dive into mixing our ingredients, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your bread bakes evenly and rises beautifully.

Step 2: Prepare the Zucchini

Shred your zucchini using a box grater or food processor. If it’s particularly watery, gently squeeze out some excess moisture using a clean kitchen towel. This helps keep our bread from becoming soggy!

Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Mixing these dry ingredients first ensures they’re evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the milk, vinegar, egg, and melted butter until well combined. Adding vinegar to milk creates a buttermilk-like consistency which adds richness to our bread.

Step 5: Bring It All Together

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture and gently fold them together until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; we want our bread to be light and fluffy!

Step 6: Add Cheese and Onions

Gently fold in the grated cheese and chopped green onions. This step adds that delicious flavor we’re after—don’t skip it!

Step 7: Bake

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

Step 8: 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. Slice up warm pieces (or let them cool if you can resist) and enjoy this delightful Green Onion Zucchini Cheddar Quick Bread with family and friends!

Pro Tips for Making Green Onion Zucchini Cheddar Quick Bread

Making your Green Onion Zucchini Cheddar Quick Bread as delicious as it can be is all about a few key tips that ensure you get the best texture and flavor!

• Use fresh zucchini: Fresh zucchini not only adds moisture but also enhances the flavor of the bread. Look for firm, unblemished zucchinis for the best results.
• Don’t skip squeezing the water out: Before adding the shredded zucchini to your mix, make sure to squeeze out excess moisture. This helps prevent a soggy bread and allows the flavors to shine through.
• Grate cheese instead of using pre-shredded: Grating your own sharp cheddar cheese will give you a creamier texture and better meltability than pre-packaged shredded cheese, which often contains anti-caking agents.
• Mix just until combined: Overmixing can lead to a dense quick bread. Stir until the ingredients are just combined for a light and fluffy texture.
• Let it cool before slicing: Patience is key! Allowing the quick bread to cool completely before slicing helps it firm up, making for cleaner cuts and better presentation.

How to Serve Green Onion Zucchini Cheddar Quick Bread

This delightful quick bread is not just tasty; it’s also versatile! Whether as a snack, side, or part of a meal, there are so many ways to enjoy it.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh herbs: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives on top adds a pop of color and freshness.
• A dollop of sour cream or yogurt: A creamy topping complements the savory flavors perfectly while adding richness.

Side Dishes

• Mixed green salad: A light mixed green salad with lemon vinaigrette balances the richness of the bread and adds a refreshing crunch.
• Roasted vegetables: Roasted seasonal vegetables bring out natural sweetness and offer a delightful contrast in texture.
• Tomato soup: The classic pairing of tomato soup with quick bread creates a comforting meal that’s perfect for chilly evenings.
• Crispy potato wedges: Seasoned potato wedges add a hearty element that complements the bread while providing additional flavor.

With these serving suggestions, your Green Onion Zucchini Cheddar Quick Bread will not only be a hit but also an invitation for warm conversations around the table! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Green Onion Zucchini Cheddar Quick Bread is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily whip it up in advance, making it a great option for busy weeknights or as a satisfying addition to your lunchbox.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the bread to cool completely before storing.
• Wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Slice the bread before freezing for convenience.
• Wrap each slice individually in plastic wrap.
• Place wrapped slices in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the slices on a baking sheet and cover with aluminum foil to prevent drying out.
• Heat for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through.
• Alternatively, you can microwave individual slices for about 30 seconds.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this delightful recipe!

Can I use other cheeses in Green Onion Zucchini Cheddar Quick Bread?

Absolutely! While sharp cheddar adds a wonderful flavor, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like pepper jack, mozzarella, or even feta for a different twist.

How long can I store Green Onion Zucchini Cheddar Quick Bread?

You can keep this quick bread at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider freezing it as described above!

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

Yes! Simply substitute the plain white flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Make sure to check that your baking powder and soda are also gluten-free.

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

This quick bread pairs wonderfully with soups or salads. It also makes a fantastic snack on its own!

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited about making this Green Onion Zucchini Cheddar Quick Bread as I am! It’s such a comforting and versatile recipe that brings together the wonderful flavors of zucchini and cheese. Perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family dinner or a cozy gathering with friends. Enjoy every bite, and don’t hesitate to let your creativity shine by adding your favorite ingredients. Happy baking!