Zucchini and Nut loaf

Since the holidays are approaching, I wanted to make sure to share one of my favorite recipes that can make this time of the year extra special. The nuts give this loaf a nice and toasty flavor while the zucchini adds moisture and additional vitamins. It is perfect for special occasions but can also be made anytime you are in the mood for something comforting and cozy.

It pretty straightforward to assemble (just process the nuts and spices and mix in the rest) and can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge prior to baking (stop at step 4 below). If you are looking for a delicious main dish to make this holiday season you should try this one out. It will definitely be a nice addition to the dinner table. 

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Zucchini and Nut loaf Recipe
vegan, plant-based, refined sugar-free

Ingredients:

• 2 1/2 cups raw pecans (can also do a mix of pecans, walnuts, or sunflower seeds)
• 1 tsp dried herb of choice (thyme, rosemary, sage, basil, or oregano mixes)
• 3/4 tsp salt
• 2 cups of bread crumbs (5 slices of MS friendly bread mixed in a blender, I typically buy the Ezekiel brand of bread)
• 2 cups grated zucchini (about 2 zucchinis) 
• 1/3 cup chopped onion
• 1 1/2 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• Optional sugar-free ketchup for topping

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F and prepare an 8 inch loaf pan by either greasing with olive oil or lining with parchment paper.
2. Add nuts, seasoning, and salt to a food processor and process until very fine.
3. In a large bowl combine the nut mixture with the rest of the ingredients. Add more olive oil if it looks too dry after mixing.
4. Add the mixture to the loaf pan (if preparing ahead of time, you can stop here and store it in the fridge until ready to bake).
5. Cover the nut loaf and bake for 50 minutes, then remove covering (you can add the ketchup to the top at this point) and bake another 15-20 minutes until cooked through.
6. Let cool for 10 min before removing from the pan and serving. 
7. It will be soft so make sure to clean the knife in between slices to ensure it all doesn't just get stuck to the knife!