This Zucchini Pizza is a healthy and delicious alternative to traditional pizza, featuring a crust made from zucchini, eggs, and flour. Topped with your favorite ingredients, this zucchini pizza is light, flavorful, and perfect for any meal. It’s easy to make and is a great way to use up fresh zucchini from your garden or market.
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
Ingredients
- 1 medium zucchini
- Granulated garlic (to taste)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- 2 eggs
- 1-2 spring onions, chopped
- 5 tablespoons flour
- Your favorite pizza toppings (cheese, tomato sauce, vegetables, etc.)
Directions
- Prepare the Zucchini:
- Preheat your oven to 200°C (392°F).
- Grate the zucchini using a box grater and place it in a colander.
- Sprinkle with a little salt and let it sit for a few minutes to draw out excess moisture.
- After a few minutes, squeeze out as much liquid as possible using a clean kitchen towel or your hands.
- Make the Crust:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the grated zucchini with 2 eggs, granulated garlic, salt, and pepper to taste.
- Add the chopped spring onions and mix well.
- Gradually add 5 tablespoons of flour to the mixture, stirring until a dough-like consistency is achieved.
- Form and Bake the Crust:
- Line a baking tray with parchment paper and lightly grease it with oil.
- Spread the zucchini mixture onto the tray, forming it into a round pizza shape.
- Bake in the preheated oven at 200°C (392°F) for 40 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and firm to the touch.
- Add Toppings and Bake Again:
- Once the crust is baked, remove it from the oven and add your favorite pizza toppings, such as tomato sauce, cheese, and vegetables.
- Return the pizza to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve:
- Slice and serve the zucchini pizza hot. Enjoy it as a light meal or snack!
Serving Suggestions
- Pair this zucchini pizza with a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
- Serve with a side of marinara sauce for dipping.
- Top with fresh herbs like basil or parsley for added flavor.
Cooking Tips
- Draining Zucchini: Ensure you squeeze out as much moisture as possible from the grated zucchini to prevent a soggy crust.
- Customize Toppings: Feel free to add your favorite toppings, such as pepperoni, mushrooms, olives, or spinach.
- Flour Alternatives: You can use almond flour or gluten-free flour as a substitute for a gluten-free option.
Nutritional Benefits
- Zucchini: Low in calories and high in vitamins A and C, zucchini is also a good source of dietary fiber.
- Eggs: Provide high-quality protein and essential vitamins.
- Spring Onions: Add flavor and are rich in vitamins and antioxidants.
Dietary Information
- Vegetarian: Yes
- Gluten-Free: No (contains flour, but can be made gluten-free with substitutions)
- Dairy-Free: Can be made dairy-free by using dairy-free cheese or omitting cheese.
Nutritional Facts (per serving)
- Calories: 150 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Protein: 6g
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 2g
- Vitamin A: 500IU
- Vitamin C: 10mg
- Calcium: 50mg
- Iron: 1mg
Storage
- Refrigerator: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Freezer: The baked crust can be frozen for up to 1 month. Thaw and add toppings before reheating.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Healthy Alternative: This zucchini pizza is a great way to enjoy the flavors of pizza with fewer carbs and more vegetables.
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for a quick meal.
- Versatile: You can customize the toppings to suit your taste or dietary needs.
- Kid-Friendly: A fun and sneaky way to get kids to eat more veggies!
Conclusion
This Zucchini Pizza is a fantastic way to enjoy a healthier version of pizza. With its flavorful zucchini crust and the option to add any toppings you like, it’s a versatile dish that can be enjoyed by the whole family. Whether you’re looking for a light meal, a snack, or something different for pizza night, this recipe is sure to satisfy. Enjoy the fresh taste of zucchini in every bite!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Can I use frozen zucchini for this recipe?
- Fresh zucchini is recommended for the best texture, but if using frozen, make sure to thaw and drain it well before using.
- Can I make the zucchini crust ahead of time?
- Yes, you can prepare and bake the crust ahead of time. Store it in the fridge or freezer, then add toppings and bake when ready to serve.
- What can I use instead of flour to make this gluten-free?
- You can use almond flour, coconut flour, or a gluten-free flour blend as a substitute.
- Can I make this pizza vegan?
- Yes, substitute the eggs with a flaxseed or chia seed mixture and use vegan cheese.
- What other vegetables can I add to the toppings?
- You can add bell peppers, mushrooms, spinach, tomatoes, or any of your favorite vegetables.
- How do I prevent the crust from being soggy?
- Make sure to drain and squeeze out excess moisture from the zucchini and bake the crust until it’s firm before adding toppings.
- Can I use this zucchini crust for other dishes?
- Yes, this crust can be used as a base for other savory dishes like a veggie tart or quiche.
- Is this recipe suitable for a low-carb diet?
- Yes, this zucchini pizza is lower in carbs compared to traditional pizza, making it a good option for those following a low-carb diet.
- Can I add meat to this pizza?
- Absolutely! You can add cooked chicken, sausage, pepperoni, or any other meat toppings you like.
- What’s the best way to reheat leftover zucchini pizza?
- Reheat in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 10 minutes to keep the crust crisp.