Il Cucinologo
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Zucchini and Tuna Upside-Down Cake

17/11/2023

I can guide you in preparing a Zucchini and Tuna Upside-Down Cake, an interesting variant that combines the delicate flavor of zucchini with the bold taste of tuna. Perfect for a summer lunch or as a tasty appetizer, this cake can be served both hot and cold. Here is the recipe:

Ingredients

  • 2 medium zucchini
  • 160 grams of tuna in oil, drained
  • 3 eggs
  • 100 grams of flour
  • 50 ml of milk
  • 40 grams of grated Parmesan
  • 1 packet of baking powder for savory cakes
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Extra virgin olive oil
  • Butter for greasing the pan

Preparation

  1. Start by preheating the oven to 180 °C.
  2. Wash the zucchini and slice them into thin rounds. If desired, you can lightly grill them to intensify the flavor.
  3. In a bowl, beat the eggs with a pinch of salt and pepper. Add the milk and mix well.
  4. Add the grated Parmesan and stir again until you obtain a smooth cream.
  5. Add the sifted flour and the baking powder for savory cakes, mixing to avoid lumps.
  6. Gently fold the tuna into the mixture, trying not to break it up too much to keep well-defined pieces.
  7. Grease a pan with a little butter and arrange the zucchini rounds to completely cover the bottom, slightly overlapping them.
  8. Pour the egg and tuna mixture over the top, leveling it with a spatula.
  9. Bake for about 30-35 minutes or until the surface is golden and fully cooked. To check doneness, you can perform the toothpick test.
  10. Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool slightly for a few minutes, then carefully invert it onto a serving plate to present it with the zucchini facing up.

Curiosities

In Italy, savory cakes are highly appreciated for their versatility; they can be easily adapted depending on the ingredients available. The “upside-down” technique was inspired by desserts like the French tarte Tatin, but has also been applied to savory preparations, often giving a more inviting appearance and a caramelized flavor to the ingredients. This version with zucchini and tuna is a fusion of typical Mediterranean flavors from Italian cuisine.