This zucchini and bacon slice is a savory, satisfying dish that combines the freshness of zucchini with the rich, smoky flavor of bacon. It’s simple to make, versatile, and perfect for a quick lunch, dinner, or even as a snack. With its crispy bacon, tender zucchini, and cheesy goodness, this slice will quickly become a favorite in your meal rotation. Plus, it’s easy to customize with your favorite seasonings and add-ins!
Preparation Time
- Preparation time: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: 30-35 minutes
- Total time: 40-45 minutes
Ingredients
- 2 medium zucchinis, grated
- 6 slices of bacon, chopped
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup grated cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
- 1/2 cup self-raising flour
- 3 eggs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
Directions
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Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease a 9×9-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper.
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Cook the bacon: In a large frying pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped bacon and cook until crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the bacon from the pan and set it aside, leaving a little bit of the bacon fat in the pan.
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Sauté the onion: In the same pan, add the finely chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
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Prepare the zucchini: Grate the zucchini and squeeze out any excess moisture by placing it in a clean kitchen towel and wringing it out. This will help prevent the slice from becoming too watery.
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Mix the ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, flour, and cheese. Add the grated zucchini, cooked bacon, sautéed onion, salt, pepper, oregano, and garlic powder (if using). Stir until everything is well combined.
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Bake the slice: Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
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Cool and serve: Let the slice cool for a few minutes before cutting it into squares or wedges. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Nutritional Facts (Per serving – makes 6 servings)
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Protein: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 3g
- Iron: 1mg
The Origins and Popularity of the Recipe
Zucchini slices and savory bakes have long been a staple in many cultures, especially during the summer months when zucchini is abundant. The concept of combining vegetables with protein-rich ingredients like bacon, eggs, and cheese creates a hearty and filling dish that is easy to prepare. This particular zucchini and bacon slice recipe is popular in Australian and British cuisine, where it is often served as a quick meal or packed into lunchboxes. It has grown in popularity worldwide due to its simplicity, versatility, and delicious flavor.
The addition of bacon brings a smoky, savory contrast to the mild zucchini, while the eggs and cheese bind everything together into a cohesive dish. This savory slice is versatile and can be customized with various vegetables, meats, or seasonings to suit personal tastes.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
You’ll love this zucchini and bacon slice because it combines all your favorite flavors into one easy-to-make dish. The smoky bacon and melted cheese complement the freshness of the zucchini, while the eggs and flour provide structure and richness. It’s quick to prepare and bake, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Plus, it can be served warm or cold, making it perfect for lunchboxes, picnics, or meal prepping for the week ahead.
Health Benefits of This Recipe
This zucchini and bacon slice provides several health benefits, thanks to the combination of fresh zucchini, protein-packed eggs, and nutrient-rich bacon. Zucchini is low in calories and a good source of vitamins A and C, which support eye health and boost the immune system. Bacon provides protein and essential fats, but it should be enjoyed in moderation due to its higher sodium and fat content. Eggs offer protein, vitamins, and minerals that help support muscle health, while cheese provides calcium for strong bones. By adjusting the amount of bacon and cheese or using lighter ingredients, you can make this recipe healthier if needed.
Serving Suggestions
- For breakfast: Serve a slice of this casserole alongside some fresh fruit or a side of scrambled eggs for a balanced breakfast.
- As a main dish: Pair this slice with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables for a light and satisfying meal.
- For a snack: This zucchini and bacon slice makes an excellent snack, whether served warm or cold, and is perfect for lunchboxes or picnics.
Tips
- Squeeze out excess moisture: Make sure to squeeze out the excess moisture from the grated zucchini to prevent the slice from becoming too soggy.
- Customize the ingredients: You can add other vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach to the mix for extra flavor and nutrients.
- Make it dairy-free: If you’re looking for a dairy-free version, use dairy-free cheese and replace the milk with a plant-based alternative like almond or oat milk.
- Bake in muffin tins: For individual portions, pour the mixture into greased muffin tins and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden.
Variations to Try
- Add herbs: For extra flavor, try adding fresh herbs like basil, thyme, or parsley to the batter before baking.
- Spicy version: Add chopped chili or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy twist on this savory slice.
- Cheese-filled: Add extra cheese to the center of each slice before baking for an extra cheesy surprise.
Conclusion
This zucchini and bacon slice is a flavorful, easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its combination of smoky bacon, creamy cheese, and fresh vegetables, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether served as a main dish, snack, or breakfast, this slice is satisfying, nutritious, and delicious. Try it today for a quick and tasty meal that everyone will love!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make this slice ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the slice a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just reheat it in the oven for a few minutes before serving.
2. Can I freeze the zucchini and bacon slice? Yes, you can freeze the slice. Allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil before freezing. Thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven.
3. Can I add other vegetables? Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables such as mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach to the mixture for more variety and flavor.
4. Can I make this slice gluten-free? Yes, you can substitute the regular flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make this recipe gluten-free.