Gâteau Salé aux Légumes Croquants et Poulet
A Savory Cake with Crunchy Vegetables and Chicken
Introduction
Gâteau Salé aux Légumes Croquants et Poulet is a wholesome and flavorful savory cake that perfectly balances tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and melted cheese in a soft, moist crumb. Easy to prepare and highly versatile, this dish is ideal for family meals, picnics, lunchboxes, or light dinners. It combines nutrition and comfort in every bite, making it both satisfying and practical.
Ingredients & Quantities
200 g all-purpose flour
1 sachet (about 10–11 g) baking powder
3 eggs
100 ml milk
80 ml olive oil
200 g cooked chicken breast, diced
1 carrot, grated
1 zucchini, grated
½ red bell pepper, finely diced
50 g green peas (fresh or frozen)
100 g grated cheese (Emmental, Comté, or mozzarella)
1 teaspoon herbes de Provence
Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions (Step by Step)
Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Lightly grease and flour a loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
Prepare the batter: In a large bowl, whisk the eggs until lightly frothy. Add the milk and olive oil, mixing well.
Combine dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, mix the flour and baking powder. Gradually incorporate them into the wet mixture until smooth.
Add fillings: Fold in the chicken, grated carrot, zucchini, red pepper, green peas, cheese, and herbes de Provence. Season with salt and pepper.
Mix gently until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 40–45 minutes, or until golden and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cool slightly before unmolding. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Origin and Cultural Significance
Savory cakes are a staple of French home cooking, especially popular for casual meals, potlucks, and outdoor gatherings. Originating from the tradition of simple, economical cooking, gâteau salé allows cooks to use leftover meats, seasonal vegetables, and local cheeses. It reflects the French emphasis on balance, flavor, and practicality in everyday cuisine.
Description
This savory cake is moist yet light, with bursts of crunch from fresh vegetables and richness from cheese and olive oil. The chicken adds protein and heartiness, while the herbs provide a subtle Mediterranean aroma. Each slice is colorful, nourishing, and deeply comforting.
Optional Additions
Olives or sun-dried tomatoes for a Mediterranean twist
Feta or goat cheese for a tangy flavor
Onions or leeks, lightly sautéed
Spices such as paprika or cumin for added warmth
Tips for Success
Squeeze excess moisture from grated zucchini to avoid a soggy texture
Use room-temperature ingredients for a smoother batter
Do not overmix once the flour is added to keep the cake tender
Let the cake rest for 10 minutes after baking for easier slicing
Nutritional Information (Approximate, per serving)
Calories: 280–320 kcal
Protein: 15–18 g
Carbohydrates: 20–25 g
Fat: 15–18 g
Fiber: 2–3 g
(Values vary depending on cheese and portion size.)
Conclusion
Gâteau Salé aux Légumes Croquants et Poulet is a reliable, nourishing, and delicious recipe that fits seamlessly into everyday life. Its adaptability and ease make it a favorite for both beginner and experienced cooks.
Recommendation
Serve this savory cake with a fresh green salad or a bowl of soup for a complete and balanced meal. It also travels well, making it perfect for school lunches, picnics, or family gatherings.
Embracing Healthful Indulgence
This recipe proves that comfort food can be both nutritious and indulgent. By combining lean protein, colorful vegetables, and quality ingredients, it encourages mindful eating without sacrificing flavor—an ideal way to enjoy wholesome homemade cooking.
If you’d like, I can also:
Rewrite this in French
Format it for a school project or cookbook
Adjust it for vegetarian or gluten-free versions
