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.
