With the sun shining and gardens bursting with vibrant vegetables, summer is the perfect time to gather fresh produce and create something delightful. Imagine a sun-soaked afternoon, friends and family gathered around a beautifully set table, laughter echoing as the enticing aroma of baked zucchini pie fills the air. This Summer Garden Crustless Zucchini Pie is not just an appealing dish; it symbolizes the joys of summer cooking, celebrating the gifts of the garden in a nourishing and delicious way.
This recipe is inspired by the bountiful summer harvest and the simplicity of rustic cooking. The idea sprouted during a backyard barbecue, where my neighbor shared her secret family recipe. I knew I had to recreate it with my own twist. What makes this dish truly special is its wonderful blend of fresh vegetables, creamy texture, and the fact that it’s crustless—making it a lighter option without sacrificing flavor. Perfect for a casual brunch, a potluck dinner, or a cozy evening at home, this pie is destined to become a favorite in your kitchen!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
You’ll love this Summer Garden Crustless Zucchini Pie for several reasons. First and foremost, the ease of preparation is a major plus. In less than an hour, you can whip up a nutritious dish that showcases the best of the season. Not only is it simple, but it’s also incredibly versatile. Feel free to customize it to suit your taste buds or dietary needs, making it an enjoyable meal for everyone.
Moreover, the combination of zucchini, herbs, and cheese creates a medley of flavors that dance on your palate. It’s an excellent way to sneak in some veggies, particularly for picky eaters who might shy away from traditional salads or steamed greens. Plus, it’s gluten-free, allowing those with dietary restrictions to enjoy it without worry!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gather the following ingredients to create your Summer Garden Crustless Zucchini Pie. Each ingredient plays a key role in delivering delightful flavors and textures.
Main Ingredients
- 2 medium zucchinis – The star of the dish, zucchini adds a mild flavor and moisture, keeping the pie light and fluffy.
- 1 cup ricotta cheese – This creamy cheese provides richness and a slightly sweet taste, balancing the vegetables perfectly.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese – Melting into the pie, mozzarella adds stretch and a gooey texture that makes every bite satisfying.
- 3 large eggs – Binding the ingredients together, eggs give the pie structure while contributing to its custardy base.
- 1 small onion, finely chopped – Adding depth of flavor and a touch of sweetness, cooked onions enhance the overall taste of the pie.
- 1 clove garlic, minced – The aromatic essence of garlic brings an irresistible savoriness, elevating the dish to new heights.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano – This herb infuses a Mediterranean flair, harmonizing beautifully with zucchini and cheese.
- Salt and pepper to taste – Essential for flavor balance, don’t shy away from seasoning to your preference!
Optional Additions
- 1 cup chopped fresh spinach – A splash of color and nutrient boost, adding spinach will not only improve the health benefits but also the visual appeal.
- 1/2 cup diced bell peppers – For a sweet crunch, feel free to toss in some bell peppers for extra flavor and a pop of color!
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes – If you like a little heat, add red pepper flakes for a gentle kick!
Special Garnishes
- Fresh basil or parsley leaves – Sprinkle some fresh herbs on top right before serving for a burst of color and freshness.
- A drizzle of olive oil – A light drizzle can enhance the flavor and add a visual touch, making the presentation even more appealing.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create your flavorful Summer Garden Crustless Zucchini Pie:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a pie dish with cooking spray or olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the zucchini: Grate the zucchini using a box grater or food processor. Once grated, place the zucchini in a clean kitchen towel or paper towel, twist it, and squeeze out excess moisture. This step is vital for preventing a soggy pie!
- Sauté the aromatics: In a skillet over medium heat, add a drizzle of olive oil. Sauté the chopped onion until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
- Mix the filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the squeezed zucchini, ricotta, mozzarella, sautéed onion and garlic, eggs, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is well combined.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared pie dish, smoothing out the top with a spatula.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden and set in the center. A knife or toothpick inserted should come out clean.
- Cool and garnish: Allow the pie to cool for about 10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh herbs and a drizzle of olive oil.
- Serve: Enjoy warm or at room temperature, paired with a simple salad or your favorite crusty bread!
Serving and Storage Tips
The Summer Garden Crustless Zucchini Pie is versatile when it comes to serving options. While delicious warm, it can also be enjoyed cold, making it ideal for leftover lunches or picnics. Serve it alongside a fresh tomato salad or a zesty green salad for a balanced meal.
For storage, cover any leftovers with plastic wrap or store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The pie will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply pop individual slices in the microwave, or warm it up in the oven at a low temperature until heated through.
Helpful Tips
- Don’t skip squeezing the zucchini! This crucial step helps achieve a pie with the perfect texture.
- Customize with herbs: Feel free to get creative with the addition of fresh herbs like thyme, dill, or chives for a unique flavor twist.
- Add protein: If you’d like to make this dish more filling, consider incorporating cooked ham or crumbled sausage into the mixture.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I make this pie ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the pie in advance and store it in the fridge before baking. When you’re ready to serve, just pop it in the oven, and you’ll have a delightful dish ready to go!
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! This Summer Garden Crustless Zucchini Pie is naturally gluten-free, as it does not contain any flour or traditional crust.
Can I freeze the zucchini pie?
Yes, you can freeze the pie! After baking, let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before warming it in the oven or microwave.
What can I serve alongside this pie?
This pie pairs perfectly with a simple green salad, roasted vegetables, or a fresh tomato salad. A side of crusty bread also makes for an excellent accompaniment.
Conclusion
The Summer Garden Crustless Zucchini Pie is a celebration of fresh, seasonal ingredients, perfect for a variety of dining occasions. With its quick preparation and delightful flavor, it not only serves as a meal but also creates an experience, allowing you to bond with family and friends over good food and great conversation. So why not try it out? Share your experiences or any adaptations you make in the comments below. After all, cooking is all about making cherished memories and savoring every slice of life!
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Summer Garden Crustless Zucchini Pie
Savor the taste of summer with this delightful crustless zucchini pie recipe Perfect for fresh garden veggies on warm days Easy & delicious
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 2 medium zucchinis
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 3 large eggs
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup chopped fresh spinach (optional)
- 1/2 cup diced bell peppers (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh basil or parsley leaves for garnish
- A drizzle of olive oil for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a pie dish with cooking spray or olive oil.
- Grate the zucchini, place it in a towel, and squeeze out excess moisture.
- In a skillet, sauté onion in olive oil until translucent, add garlic and cook for 1 more minute.
- In a mixing bowl, combine zucchini, ricotta, mozzarella, sautéed onion and garlic, eggs, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared pie dish, smoothing out the top.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, until golden and set in the center.
- Cool for 10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh herbs and drizzle with olive oil.
- Serve warm or at room temperature.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- minutes: 10
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Gluten-Free
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 180 calories
- Sugar: 1 gram
- Fat: 12 grams
- Saturated Fat: 12 grams
- Carbohydrates: 6 grams
- Fiber: 2 grams
- Protein: 10 grams
Keywords: Zucchini Pie, Crustless Zucchini Pie, Gluten-Free Recipes, Summer Recipes
