Lemon Zucchini Quick Bread
Highlighted under: MinuteMeal Magic
This Lemon Zucchini Quick Bread is a delightful blend of fresh zucchini and zesty lemon, creating a moist and flavorful treat perfect for breakfast or a snack.
This Lemon Zucchini Quick Bread is not just a treat but a way to enjoy the bounty of summer zucchini while adding a refreshing citrus twist. It's a family favorite that brings smiles with every slice!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Moist and fluffy texture that is incredibly satisfying
- Bright lemon flavor that complements the zucchini beautifully
- Perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert
The Health Benefits of Zucchini
Zucchini is a versatile vegetable that offers numerous health benefits, making it an excellent addition to your diet. This low-calorie squash is rich in vitamins and minerals, particularly vitamin C, which supports your immune system. Additionally, zucchini is high in antioxidants, which help combat oxidative stress and inflammation in the body.
Another advantage of incorporating zucchini into your meals is its high water content, which aids in hydration. This makes zucchini a great choice for maintaining a healthy weight, as it can help you feel full without consuming too many calories. Whether you’re looking to boost your nutrient intake or simply enjoy a delicious treat, this Lemon Zucchini Quick Bread is a fantastic way to do just that.
Perfect Pairings for Lemon Zucchini Bread
Lemon Zucchini Quick Bread is delicious on its own, but it can also be paired with a variety of accompaniments to enhance your enjoyment. A dollop of whipped cream or a smear of cream cheese can add a rich, creamy element that complements the bright flavors of the bread. For a touch of sweetness, drizzle some honey or a light glaze over the top before serving.
If you're serving this bread for breakfast, consider pairing it with a side of fresh fruit or a yogurt parfait. The freshness of the fruit will balance the sweetness of the bread perfectly. Alternatively, a cup of tea or coffee can make for a delightful afternoon snack, making this quick bread an all-around versatile choice.
Storage Tips for Your Quick Bread
To keep your Lemon Zucchini Quick Bread fresh, it's best to store it in an airtight container at room temperature. This will help retain its moisture and prevent it from drying out. If you live in a particularly humid environment, you might consider refrigerating it to prolong its shelf life, although this may slightly change the texture.
For longer storage, you can freeze individual slices or the whole loaf. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw at room temperature or pop it in the microwave for a quick reheating. This ensures you always have a delicious treat on hand!
Ingredients
Ingredients:
For the Bread
- 1 cup grated zucchini
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Mix all the ingredients thoroughly before pouring into the loaf pan.
Instructions
Instructions:
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x5 inch loaf pan.
Prepare the Zucchini
Grate the zucchini using a box grater and set aside. You can squeeze out excess moisture if desired.
Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the vegetable oil, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, lemon zest, and lemon juice.
Combine Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, mix the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
Combine Mixtures
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Fold in the grated zucchini.
Bake
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cool and Serve
Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Enjoy your delicious Lemon Zucchini Quick Bread!
Tips for Perfecting Your Quick Bread
To achieve the perfect texture in your Lemon Zucchini Quick Bread, make sure to avoid overmixing the batter. Mix just until the dry ingredients are incorporated; this will help keep your bread light and fluffy. Additionally, grating the zucchini finely can help it blend seamlessly into the batter, ensuring even distribution of flavor throughout the bread.
If you want to take your bread to the next level, consider adding in some mix-ins such as chopped nuts or chocolate chips. These additions can provide a delightful contrast in texture and flavor, elevating your quick bread experience.
Serving Suggestions
This Lemon Zucchini Quick Bread is incredibly versatile when it comes to serving options. For a simple yet elegant presentation, slice the bread and arrange it on a platter, garnished with lemon slices or fresh herbs like mint. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds a refreshing aroma.
If you're hosting a brunch, consider serving the bread alongside a selection of cheeses and cured meats. This savory contrast will delight your guests and make for a memorable gathering. Don't forget to offer a variety of beverages, such as iced tea or lemonade, to complement the bright lemon flavor of the bread.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use whole wheat flour instead?
Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour, but it may change the texture slightly.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.
→ Can I freeze this bread?
Yes, you can freeze the bread! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil for up to 3 months.
→ What can I substitute for eggs?
You can use 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce or a flax egg as a substitute for each egg.
Lemon Zucchini Quick Bread
This Lemon Zucchini Quick Bread is a delightful blend of fresh zucchini and zesty lemon, creating a moist and flavorful treat perfect for breakfast or a snack.
Created by: Emily
Recipe Type: MinuteMeal Magic
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 1 loaf
What You'll Need
For the Bread
- 1 cup grated zucchini
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x5 inch loaf pan.
Grate the zucchini using a box grater and set aside. You can squeeze out excess moisture if desired.
In a large bowl, whisk together the vegetable oil, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, lemon zest, and lemon juice.
In another bowl, mix the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Fold in the grated zucchini.
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 200 kcal
- Total Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
- Sodium: 150mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 28g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 15g
- Protein: 3g