This Baked Courgette and Oat Pizza is a delicious and healthy twist on traditional pizza. Made with a crust of courgettes and ground oat flakes, it’s packed with flavor and nutrients. Perfect as a light main course or snack, this pizza is topped with cheese and fresh herbs, making it both satisfying and easy to prepare.
Preparation Time
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 2 courgettes (zucchini)
- Salt
- 2 eggs
- 1 clove of garlic, minced
- 3-4 tablespoons oat flakes, ground
- 100 grams cheese, grated
- Pepper, to taste
- Nutmeg, to taste
For the Toppings:
- Tomato sauce
- Fresh basil leaves
- Fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
- Cherry tomatoes, halved
- Olive oil
- Additional toppings as desired (e.g., olives, bell peppers, onions)
Directions
Prepare the Courgettes:
- Grate the Courgettes: Grate the courgettes and place them in a bowl.
- Add Salt: Add a generous amount of salt and let them sit for 5 minutes to draw out the moisture.
- Remove Liquid: After 5 minutes, squeeze out the excess liquid from the courgettes using a clean cloth or your hands. This step is crucial to avoid a soggy crust.
Prepare the Crust:
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the grated courgettes, eggs, minced garlic, ground oat flakes, grated cheese, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).
- Form the Crust: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Spread the courgette mixture onto the baking sheet, forming a round or rectangular pizza crust. Press the mixture down firmly to ensure it holds together.
Bake the Crust:
- Bake the Crust: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and firm to the touch.
Add Toppings:
- Add Tomato Sauce: Spread a thin layer of tomato sauce over the baked crust.
- Add Toppings: Arrange the fresh mozzarella slices, cherry tomatoes, and any additional toppings over the sauce. Drizzle with olive oil.
- Bake Again: Return the pizza to the oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serve:
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and let cool slightly. Garnish with fresh basil leaves. Serve warm and enjoy!
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
- Enjoy as a healthy snack or appetizer.
- Serve with a side of roasted vegetables.
Cooking Tips
- Uniform Slicing: Slice the toppings evenly to ensure they cook at the same rate.
- Garlic: Adjust the amount of garlic according to your preference.
- Flavor Variations: Add different herbs or spices to the crust mixture for extra flavor.
Nutritional Benefits
- Low in Calories: Zucchini is low in calories and high in fiber, making it a great addition to a healthy diet.
- Calcium-Rich: Mozzarella cheese adds a good source of calcium.
- Healthy Fats: Olive oil provides healthy monounsaturated fats.
Dietary Information
- Vegetarian: This dish is suitable for vegetarians.
- Gluten-Free: Naturally gluten-free and suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
Storage
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 180°C (356°F) until warmed through.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Ready in just 35 minutes, perfect for a quick snack or meal.
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of cheese, herbs, and spices makes for a mouthwatering treat.
- Healthy: Packed with nutrients from fresh vegetables and herbs.
Conclusion
This Baked Courgette and Oat Pizza is a simple yet flavorful dish that you can whip up in no time. It’s perfect for those looking for a quick, healthy, and delicious meal. Give it a try and let us know how you liked it. Bon appétit, friends!