Zucchini is like that one friend who always shows up at summer gatherings—reliable, versatile, and somehow managing to fit into every situation. This crustless zucchini pie (or should I call it a frittata?) is an ode to those sun-drenched afternoons where the air is thick with laughter and the scent of fresh produce. It’s quick to whip up, and even quicker to disappear—kind of like the last piece of dessert at a family barbecue.
Steps
- Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F. Coat a pie dish lightly with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded zucchini with shallots, chives, and mozzarella cheese.
- In a separate bowl, sift together the flour and baking powder. Add the milk, olive oil, beaten eggs, salt, and pepper, then stir until everything is well mixed.
- Pour the flour mixture into the zucchini mixture and stir until all ingredients are evenly combined. Transfer this combined mixture into the prepared pie dish.
- Sprinkle the top with grated Parmesan cheese. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a knife inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Allow the pie to cool for at least 5 minutes before cutting and serving.
Ingredients
- 10 ounces zucchini, shredded with all liquid removed
- 1/2 cup chopped shallots
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh chives
- 1/2 cup shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup white whole wheat flour (or all-purpose or gluten-free mix)
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 2/3 cup fat-free milk
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- Black pepper, to taste
- Cooking spray
Nutritional Values
Calories: 751.8 kcal | Carbohydrates: 78.6 g | Protein: 48.6 g | Fat: 28.8 g | Cholesterol: 312 mg | Sodium: 2520.6 mg | Fiber: 12 g | Sugar: 15 g
FAQ
- Can I use a different type of flour for the Crustless Zucchini Pie?
- Yes, you can substitute white whole wheat flour with all-purpose or regular wheat flour. For a gluten-free option, use a gluten-free flour blend like Cup4Cup.
- How should I store leftover zucchini pie?
- You can keep the leftover zucchini pie in the refrigerator for up to four days. If you want to freeze it, wrap the pie tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the freezer for up to three months. Reheat by thawing it in the fridge overnight and then warming it in the oven or microwave.
- What can I use instead of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese?
- You can swap mozzarella with Swiss or Asiago cheese and replace Parmesan with Pecorino Romano or feta to suit your taste preferences.
- Are there any alternatives to shallots or chives in this recipe?
- If you don’t have shallots, you can use red or yellow onions. For chives, green onions make a good substitute.
- Can I add other ingredients to the zucchini pie?
- Absolutely! You can enhance the flavor by adding herbs like basil or oregano, and season with garlic powder or fresh garlic. For more variety, consider including other vegetables such as bell peppers or artichoke hearts, or even add grilled chicken for a hearty twist.
Tips
- Ensure you thoroughly remove all moisture from the shredded zucchini before incorporating it into the pie mixture. Sprinkle a little salt over the zucchini in a strainer and let it sit for about 15 minutes to draw out the liquid, then squeeze it in a cheesecloth or dish towel.
- For a quicker preparation process, use a food processor to shred the zucchini instead of doing it by hand.
- Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese; try substituting mozzarella with Swiss or Asiago, and replace Parmesan with Pecorino Romano or feta for varied flavors.
- If you’re looking to add more vegetables or protein, consider incorporating ingredients like bell peppers, artichoke hearts, or grilled chicken to enhance the pie’s nutritional value and taste.
Equipment
- Misto Oil Sprayer – If you do not have a cooking spray, a Misto sprayer is useful for applying olive oil evenly.
- Pie Dish – If you don’t have a pie dish for baking, you may need to purchase one.
- Cheesecloth or Nut Milk Bag – Useful for squeezing the liquid out of shredded zucchini.
- Food Processor – For shredding zucchini quickly and easily, if not done manually.
