As we head into the cooler months, there’s nothing more comforting than a home-cooked meal that not only tastes great but also supports your child’s wellbeing. At Papilio Early Learning, our seasonal menu is carefully crafted to nourish growing bodies and minds - and this Zucchini Slice is a favourite among our little learners.
Mild in flavour and packed with goodness, this simple dish is full of immune-supporting ingredients and gentle textures, making it ideal for young children. It’s quick to prepare, easy to portion, and perfect for both dinner time and lunchboxes the next day.
Why This Dish Supports Immunity
This humble slice is a powerhouse of nutrients designed to help your child thrive through the winter season:
- Zucchini – A great source of vitamin C and antioxidants to support immunity and skin health
- Eggs – Rich in protein and B vitamins to aid cell repair and development
- Corn & peas – Full of fibre, which supports gut health - a key player in overall immunity
- Cheese – Contains zinc and calcium, supporting immune function and bone health
- Lean ham – Provides iron and B12 for energy and healthy red blood cell production
Together, these ingredients create a nourishing, balanced dish the whole family will enjoy.
Child-Approved Zucchini Slice
Serves: 4–6
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 30–40 minutes
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 500 g zucchini, grated (no need to peel)
- ½ cup frozen peas
- ½ cup frozen corn kernels
- ¾ cup reduced-fat cheese, grated
- ¾ cup wholemeal self-raising flour
- 6 large eggs, lightly beaten
- 125 g lean ham, chopped
Optional Flavour Boosters
- A teaspoon of dried herbs like oregano or thyme
- 1 small grated carrot or sweet potato
- A pinch of garlic powder or mild curry powder
- A spoonful of ricotta or feta for added creaminess
- Swap ham for cooked bacon or shredded chicken
Method
- Preheat your oven to 180°C.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine all ingredients and stir until well mixed.
- Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish and smooth the top.
- Bake for 30–40 minutes or until golden brown and firm in the centre.
- Let cool slightly before slicing. Serve warm with wholemeal bread or a fresh side salad.
Tip: This slice is just as tasty cold and stores well in the fridge - perfect for lunchboxes or an easy snack the next day!
A Favourite from Our Kitchen to Yours
At Papilio, we believe every meal is an opportunity to nurture healthy habits for life. Our onsite cooks prepare fresh, balanced meals each day with thoughtfully selected ingredients - tailored to suit the needs of young children and aligned with our focus on wellbeing and development.
Want to learn more about what your child eats at Papilio? Visit our Healthy Menu page to discover how we’re making mealtimes both nourishing and enjoyable.
Recipe source: FeedAustralia