Description
Craving a comforting, versatile dish that’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a light dinner? Zucchini Pie is your answer! This savory pie combines tender zucchini, nutty Parmesan, and a fluffy, biscuit-like texture in a simple, one-bowl recipe.
Ingredients
- Large Eggs (3): The binding base.
- Why it’s important: Eggs provide structure and help create the pie’s fluffy, quiche-like texture.
- Substitutions: Use flax eggs (3 tbsp flaxseed meal + 9 tbsp water) for a vegan option, though the texture may be slightly denser.
- Grated Parmesan Cheese (1 cup): Adds nutty, savory flavor.
- Why it’s important: Provides a cheesy, salty depth that complements the zucchini.
- Substitutions: Use Pecorino Romano, Asiago, or a vegan Parmesan alternative.
- Canola Oil (½ cup): Adds moisture and richness.
- Why it’s important: Keeps the pie tender and helps blend the ingredients smoothly.
- Substitutions: Use vegetable oil, avocado oil, or melted butter for a richer flavor.
- Fresh Parsley (1 tablespoon, minced): Adds freshness and color.
- Why it’s important: Brings a bright, herbaceous note to balance the richness.
- Substitutions: Use fresh basil, cilantro, or 1 teaspoon dried parsley.
- Garlic Clove (1, minced): Adds savory depth.
- Why it’s important: Infuses the pie with a subtle, aromatic garlic flavor.
- Substitutions: Use ¼ teaspoon garlic powder or pre-minced garlic.
- Salt (¼ teaspoon): Enhances flavors.
- Why it’s important: Brings out the natural taste of the zucchini and cheese.
- Substitutions: Use sea salt or kosher salt, or reduce for a lower-sodium option.
- Pepper (⅛ teaspoon): Adds mild heat.
- Why it’s important: Balances the flavors with a touch of spice.
- Substitutions: Use white pepper or a pinch of red pepper flakes for a kick.
- Sliced Zucchini (3 cups): The star veggie.
- Why it’s important: Provides moisture, texture, and a mild, fresh flavor that makes the pie light and wholesome.
- Substitutions: Use yellow squash, shredded carrots, or a mix of both.
- Biscuit/Baking Mix (1 cup): Creates the fluffy base.
- Why it’s important: Acts as a quick, all-in-one flour and leavening agent for a tender crust.
- Substitutions: Use a homemade mix (1 cup flour + 1½ tsp baking powder + ¼ tsp salt) or a gluten-free baking mix.
- Small Onion (1, chopped): Adds savory sweetness.
- Why it’s important: Enhances the flavor with a subtle oniony bite.
- Substitutions: Use shallots, green onions, or ½ teaspoon onion powder.
Pro Tip: Slice zucchini thinly (about ⅛-inch thick) for even cooking, and use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and melt.
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch deep-dish pie plate with cooking spray or a light coating of oil.
- Tip: Use a glass or ceramic pie plate for even baking and a golden crust.
- Mix the Wet Ingredients:
- In a large bowl, whisk together 3 large eggs, ½ cup canola oil, 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese, 1 tablespoon minced fresh parsley, 1 minced garlic clove, ¼ teaspoon salt, and ⅛ teaspoon pepper until well combined.
- Tip: Whisk thoroughly to ensure the oil and eggs emulsify for a smooth batter.
- Add the Dry and Veggie Ingredients:
- Stir in 3 cups sliced zucchini, 1 cup biscuit/baking mix, and 1 small chopped onion until evenly mixed. The batter will be thick but moist.
- Tip: Fold gently to avoid crushing the zucchini slices, and ensure the baking mix is fully incorporated.
- Bake the Pie:
- Pour the mixture into the greased 9-inch deep-dish pie plate, spreading it evenly.
- Bake at 350°F for 25–35 minutes, until lightly browned and set in the center (a toothpick inserted should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs).
- Tip: Check at 25 minutes, as oven times vary. Cover with foil if the top browns too quickly.
- Serve:
- Let the pie cool for 5–10 minutes before slicing to make cutting easier. Serve warm or at room temperature.
- Tip: Garnish with extra parsley or Parmesan for a fresh, appealing presentation.
Cooking Tip: Ensure the zucchini is sliced thinly and evenly to avoid a watery pie. If your zucchini is very moist, pat it dry with paper towels before adding to the batter.