Savory Zucchini Layer Cake

This savory zucchini layer cake combines the freshness of summer vegetables with rich dairy flavors, resulting in a deliciously unique dish. It's a delightful alternative for those who enjoy savory over sweet, offering a perfect balance of flavors and textures. The use of fresh dill and a five-pepper blend brings aromatic depth, while a combination of mayonnaise and sour cream between each layer adds creaminess. Crispy pancakes made from shredded zucchini serve as the foundation, while juicy tomatoes provide a pop of color and taste. This creative recipe is perfect for family gatherings or a special weekend treat. Garnish it with your choice of fresh herbs to enhance its visual appeal. The meal is both flavorful and aromatic, leaving a lasting impression on anyone who tries it. Best shared with friends and family over a good conversation, this dish invites you to try something out of the ordinary. Enjoy this tasty and artfully presented dish that artfully celebrates the bounty of zucchini.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

1.5 kg zucchini
100 g onion
50 g carrot
5 cloves of garlic
2 cups flour
200 g fresh dill
2 tbsp salt
0.5 tsp five-pepper blend
2 tsp rapeseed oil
5 eggs
1 cup mayonnaise
1 cup sour cream
10 tomatoes

Preparation Time

Total Time: 40 minutes
(Preparation: 20 minutes, Cooking: 20 minutes)

Step-by-Step Instruction

Begin by thinly slicing the zucchini, onion, carrot, and garlic. You can use a food processor to save time and ensure uniformity.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced vegetables with the flour, salt, and five-pepper blend. Mix well until the vegetables are fully coated.
Add the eggs into the mixture, stirring thoroughly until you achieve a cohesive batter. If the batter is too thick, consider adding a bit of water to loosen it.
Heat the rapeseed oil in a non-stick frying pan over medium heat. Use a ladle to pour the batter into the pan, forming medium-sized pancakes.
Cook each pancake for about three minutes on each side or until they are golden brown and set aside to cool on a wire rack.
Slice the tomatoes into thin pieces, setting them aside for use later in the layering process.
In another bowl, mix the mayonnaise and sour cream together to form a smooth sauce.
Once the pancakes have cooled, take one pancake and spread a generous layer of the sauce on top.
Place three to four slices of the tomato over the sauce layer.
Sprinkle a handful of dill over the tomatoes for extra freshness.
Place another pancake on top of the layered ingredients and press down gently.
Repeat the layering process for the remaining pancakes, sauce, tomatoes, and dill.
Once all layers are assembled, use the remaining sauce on the very top pancake as a final touch.
Decorate the top of the cake with more dill or any fresh herbs of your choice for a finishing touch.
Cover the cake loosely and let it sit for about 15 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
If desired, chill the cake in the refrigerator for a cooler taste before serving.
Slice the cake carefully into wedges using a sharp knife.
Serve the cake as an appetizer, main course, or party dish.
Enjoy with family or friends for a delightful dining experience.
Tip: Pair with a light green salad for a well-rounded meal.

Tips

Substitutions: Feel free to replace mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a tangier flavor.
Variations: Add grated cheese between layers for additional richness.
Techniques: Press each layer slightly to ensure stability and even flavors.

Nutritional Information

Calories: Approximately 300 per serving
Protein: 8 g
Fats: 12 g
Carbs: 40 g

Variations

For a Vegan Version: Substitute eggs with flaxseed meal and water mixture as a binding agent.
Gluten-Free Option: Use almond flour or chickpea flour instead of regular flour.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with a crisp, cold white wine or homemade lemonade.
Garnish with fresh parsley or basil for an extra aromatic touch.
Serve alongside roasted potatoes or a light cucumber salad.

Best Places

La Tarte Gourmande - A creative spot known for its innovative savory pastries.
Location: 10 Rue Oberkampf, Paris, France.

Hearty Delights - Famous for their layered vegetable cakes and warm hospitality.
Location: 20 Wellington St, Toronto, Canada.

Zucchini Magic - Renowned for its zucchini-based dishes, offering a vegetarian twist.
Location: 73 Crown St, Sydney, Australia.

Savory Bites Cafe - Known for serving a variety of savory cakes and tarts.
Location: 56 Bridge Rd, London, UK.

Veggie Haven - An excellent place to enjoy plant-based savory cakes.
Location: 15 Greenway Dr, Los Angeles, USA.

The Garden Kitchen - Offers a rustic feel with an extensive menu of vegetarian options.
Location: 35 Queen St, Cape Town, South Africa.

Layered Delicacies - Celebrated for imaginative layer cakes in both sweet and savory flavors.
Location: 88 Orchard Rd, Singapore.

Fresh and Flaky - A quaint bakery that specializes in savory pastries.
Location: 22 Market St, Dublin, Ireland.

Farm-to-Table - Organic ingredients and inventive dishes are the highlights here.
Location: 19 Maple Ave, Wellington, New Zealand.

Zesty Zucchini Cafe - A go-to place for zucchini enthusiasts with an array of savory choices.
Location: 72 Hill Rd, Auckland, New Zealand.