As the sun shines bright and the days get longer, there’s nothing quite like the taste of fresh summer produce. The Summer Garden Crustless Zucchini Pie is the perfect dish for those balmy afternoons or celebrations in the backyard. Imagine gathering with loved ones, surrounded by the aromas of fresh vegetables, as this vibrant, savory pie graces your table. This recipe combines simplicity with a medley of flavors to create a delightful experience that you’ll want to share.
The inspiration behind this dish stems from sunny days spent in gardens, where the bountiful harvest of zucchini inspires creativity in the kitchen. Its unique crustless design means you can fully enjoy the flavors of the vegetables without the heaviness of dough. This pie is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of seasonal produce that emphasizes fresh ingredients and healthy cooking.
What makes this recipe special is its versatility. Whether you’re accommodating dietary needs or simply seeking a quick yet tasty dish, this crustless pie is a delightful solution for lunch or dinner that everyone can appreciate.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Summer Garden Crustless Zucchini Pie is a celebration of everything we adore about summer cooking. Its fresh and vibrant flavors make it a hit at gatherings and casual dinners alike. Here are a few reasons why you’ll love making this pie:
- Easy Preparation: With just a handful of ingredients, this dish comes together in no time, making it perfect for weeknight meals or impromptu get-togethers.
- Health-Conscious: Low in carbs and gluten-free, this recipe is great for health-conscious eaters or anyone looking to pack more veggies into their diet.
- Customizable: This pie allows for plenty of personal touches – switch up the vegetables or add seasonings to suit your taste.
What Does The Recipe Taste Like
The Summer Garden Crustless Zucchini Pie offers a delightful blend of flavors that embody the freshness of summer. The zucchini brings a mild, slightly sweet flavor, which pairs beautifully with the sharpness of cheese and the aromatic sweetness of onions. Each bite is filled with a harmonious balance of textures, thanks to the eggs that bind it all together and create a light, fluffy filling. A touch of fresh herbs elevates the dish further, bringing a bright, herbaceous note that tastes just like a summer garden.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To whip up your own Summer Garden Crustless Zucchini Pie, gather the following ingredients:
- 2 medium zucchinis (about 3 cups grated): Zucchini is the star of this dish, providing moisture and a light, tender texture.
- 1 medium onion (finely chopped): Adds a savory depth and sweetness when sautéed.
- 2 large eggs: These bind the pie together, creating the base structure.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Offers a rich, tangy flavor that enhances the whole dish.
- ½ cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour): Just a little to give the pie some body without the heaviness of a crust.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder: Helps the pie rise and adds a fluffy texture.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and bringing out all the flavors.
- Fresh herbs (such as basil or parsley): Adds a burst of freshness and a flavor boost.
Optional Additions
If you want to customize this zucchini pie, consider these optional add-ins:
- Cherry Tomatoes: Add halved cherry tomatoes for a burst of juiciness and tang.
- Red Pepper Flakes: For some heat, sprinkle in a pinch of red pepper flakes.
- Other Veggies: Feel free to include spinach, bell peppers, or even mushrooms for more texture and flavor.
Special Garnishes
Make your pie visually appealing and give it an extra kick by adding garnishes:
- Fresh Basil Leaves: Sprinkle some on top for color and a fragrant aroma.
- Grated Parmesan: A dusting of finely grated Parmesan enhances the flavor and adds a lovely crust on top when baked.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these detailed steps to create your Summer Garden Crustless Zucchini Pie:
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to get it warmed up for baking.
- Prepare the Zucchini: Grate the zucchini using a box grater. Place the grated zucchini into a clean kitchen towel and wring it out to remove excess moisture.
- Sauté the Onions: In a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of olive oil and sauté the chopped onion until translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Let it cool slightly.
- Mix the Base: In a large mixing bowl, whisk the eggs, then add in the sautéed onions, grated zucchini, cheese, flour, and baking powder. Stir until fully combined.
- Season: Season the mixture with salt, pepper, and chopped fresh herbs to taste.
- Pour into a Baking Dish: Grease a 9-inch pie dish and pour in the zucchini mixture, smoothing the top.
- Bake: Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes or until the top is golden and the pie is set.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the pie to cool for a few minutes before slicing. Enjoy warm or at room temperature.
Recipe Variations
This recipe is wonderfully adaptable! Here are a few variations to consider:
- Cheesy Spinach Variation: Add one cup of fresh spinach to mix in with the zucchini for a nutritious boost.
- Italian Flavors: Incorporate Italian herbs like oregano or thyme, and use mozzarella cheese instead of cheddar for a pizza-inspired twist.
- Mexican Style: Add jalapeños, corn, and a blend of Mexican cheeses for a spicy, southwestern flavor.
Serving and Storage Tips
The Summer Garden Crustless Zucchini Pie is perfect for picnics or barbecues, as it can be served warm or cold. After cooling down, you can slice it into wedges for easy serving. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days, making it a great make-ahead option!
Helpful Tips
Here are some handy tips to ensure your pie turns out perfectly:
- Removing Moisture: Make sure to wring out the zucchini well to prevent the pie from becoming soggy.
- Make it Ahead: You can prepare the mixture and store it in the fridge for a couple of hours before baking, which can help enhance the flavors.
- Experiment with Cheeses: Different cheeses can totally change the flavor profile! Try feta, goat cheese, or even a spicy pepper jack.
Special Equipment
While this recipe is straightforward, having a few tools on hand can make preparation easier:
- Box Grater: Perfect for grating the zucchini quickly.
- Mixing Bowls: Use a couple of different sizes for mixing and combining ingredients.
- Baking Dish: A 9-inch pie dish works best for even cooking, but you can use any oven-safe dish.
- Skillet: A non-stick skillet is helpful for sautéing the onions without them sticking.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I freeze the Summer Garden Crustless Zucchini Pie?
Yes, you can freeze the pie before baking, wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil. To bake, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as instructed.
What can I serve with this pie?
This pie pairs excellently with a side salad, grilled chicken, or as part of a larger brunch spread.
How do I know when the pie is done?
The pie is done when the top is golden and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean. The edges should also be slightly puffed up.
Can I substitute zucchini for another vegetable?
Absolutely! Summer squash, yellow squash, or even finely grated carrots work wonderfully in this recipe.
Conclusion
In summary, the Summer Garden Crustless Zucchini Pie is not just a delicious dish; it’s a reminder of the joys of summertime cooking and gathering with friends and family. Packed with fresh flavors and a variety of nutritious ingredients, it’s an experience you won’t want to miss. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or make your own adaptations, we encourage you to try this pie! Share your creations or tweaks in the comments below – we would love to hear about your summer kitchen adventures. Let this pie be the centerpiece of sunny memories and cherished moments around the table.
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Delicious Summer Garden Crustless Zucchini Pie Recipe
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
Description
Savor our Delicious Summer Garden Crustless Zucchini Pie Recipe a perfect dish for warm days filled with fresh veggies and flavor Enjoy
Ingredients
Instructions
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Calories: 120 calories
- Sugar: 2g
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 8g
