🥕 Savory Vegetable Cake Recipe
🌟 Introduction
The Savory Vegetable Cake, also known as Baked Veggie Squares, is a versatile, colorful, and nutritious dish that combines fresh vegetables, cheese, and a soft, fluffy batter baked to perfection. Originating from the idea of “vegetable loaves” popular in European home cooking, this dish has become a favorite worldwide for its simplicity, taste, and wholesome ingredients.
It’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, snacks, or even as a light dinner with salad or soup.
🥬 Ingredients
For the batter:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon paprika (optional)
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup milk (or yogurt for a thicker texture)
- ½ cup vegetable oil or olive oil
For the vegetables:
- 1 medium carrot, finely grated
- 1 small zucchini, finely chopped
- 1 small red bell pepper, diced
- 1 small green bell pepper, diced
- 1 tomato, seeds removed and finely chopped
- ½ cup green onions or chives, chopped
- ½ cup fresh parsley, chopped
For the cheesy touch:
- 1½ cups grated cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix)
- Optional: ¼ cup grated parmesan for extra flavor
🧑🍳 Instructions & Method
Step 1: Prepare the vegetables
Wash and finely chop all vegetables. Make sure to remove excess moisture using a paper towel if needed—this keeps the cake fluffy and not soggy.
Step 2: Prepare the batter
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, and oil until smooth.
Add the dry ingredients (flour, baking powder, salt, pepper, and paprika).
Mix until well combined to form a thick batter.
Step 3: Combine everything
Add the chopped vegetables and 1 cup of grated cheese to the batter.
Fold gently until the vegetables are evenly distributed.
Step 4: Bake
- Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Grease a square or rectangular baking dish.
- Pour in the batter and smooth the top.
- Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top for a golden crust.
- Bake for 35–45 minutes, or until golden and a toothpick comes out clean.
Step 5: Cool and cut
Allow it to cool slightly before cutting into squares. Serve warm or at room temperature.
🕰️ History
Savory cakes have roots in Mediterranean and European cuisine where cooks used leftover vegetables and cheese to create hearty, oven-baked dishes. Over time, the recipe evolved to include different herbs, spices, and vegetables — making it a beloved comfort food.
In France, similar recipes are called Cake Salé, often enjoyed at picnics. In Italy, versions called Torta Salata include ricotta and herbs. This recipe combines those influences with modern simplicity.
🌿 Benefits
- Nutrient-rich: Full of vitamins A, C, and K from fresh vegetables.
- Protein-packed: Eggs and cheese offer great protein content.
- Fiber-friendly: Keeps you full for longer and supports digestion.
- Low waste: Perfect for using leftover vegetables.
- Kid-friendly: Soft, cheesy texture loved by children.
🧱 Formation (Texture & Structure)
The cake has a light, moist interior filled with colorful vegetable bits and a crispy golden top from the melted cheese. The combination of baking powder and eggs gives it a soft, bread-like rise, while the vegetables keep it tender inside.
❤️ Lovers
This recipe is adored by:
- Vegetable lovers for its freshness.
- Cheese lovers for its gooey, golden crust.
- Health-conscious eaters who enjoy nutritious snacks.
- Busy cooks who want an easy, bake-and-serve dish.
🥗 Nutrition (Per Slice – Approx.)
- Calories: 210 kcal
- Protein: 9g
- Fat: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 2g
- Calcium: 15% DV
- Vitamin C: 25% DV
🍽️ Conclusion
This Savory Vegetable Cake is a masterpiece of color, flavor, and texture. Every bite is soft, cheesy, and full of garden-fresh goodness. Whether enjoyed as a snack, breakfast, or side dish, it never fails to impress.
It’s a perfect example of how humble ingredients — flour, eggs, vegetables, and cheese — can come together to create something hearty and comforting.
💕 Lovers’ Note
Those who try it once often fall in love with its warmth, simplicity, and comfort. It’s a dish that brings people together — perfect for family breakfasts, shared lunches, or cozy evenings with loved ones.
