Summer Garden Crustless Zucchini Pie: A Must-Try Delight!

Introduction to Summer Garden Crustless Zucchini Pie

As the sun beams down and gardens burst with fresh produce, there’s something magical about crafting a dish that captures those summer vibes. The Summer Garden Crustless Zucchini Pie is my go-to recipe when I want to unveil the vibrant flavors of summer in a quick and delightful package. This dish is perfect for busy moms like me, offering a flavorful escape with minimal effort. It’s not just healthy; it warms the heart and impresses family and friends alike, making every meal feel like a special occasion. Gather up those garden zucchini and let’s dive in!

Why You’ll Love This Summer Garden Crustless Zucchini Pie

This Summer Garden Crustless Zucchini Pie is a culinary dream come true! It’s simple, quick to whip up, and a breeze to bake. With its rich, cheesy flavor and delightful texture, it’ll win over even the pickiest eaters. Plus, it’s a versatile dish, perfect for brunch, lunch, or a light dinner. You can savor every bite while knowing it’s healthy, too—a win-win for busy lives!

Ingredients for Summer Garden Crustless Zucchini Pie

Creating this delightful Summer Garden Crustless Zucchini Pie starts with some fresh and simple ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Shredded zucchini: The star of the dish, offering moisture and that fresh summer flavor.
• Salt: Enhances the flavors; just a pinch goes a long way in bringing out the essence of the zucchini.
• Olive oil: Adds a touch of richness and helps sauté the vegetables to perfection.
• Chopped onion: For sweetness and depth, this ingredient along with garlic makes the pie aromatic.
• Garlic: A must-have for that savory punch! One clove goes a long way in flavoring the dish.
• All-purpose flour: Acts as a binding agent, creating structure without a crust.
• Baking powder: Helps the pie rise for a fluffy texture that’s oh-so-satisfying.
• Dried oregano: A hint of herby goodness—perfect for those garden vibes!
• Dried basil: Another herb to elevate your pie and complement the zucchini beautifully.
• Black pepper: Adds a subtle spice; feel free to adjust based on your preference.
• Eggs: These are essential for binding the dish and giving it a lovely, rich texture.
• Shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully, adding creaminess and richness to each bite.
• Grated Parmesan cheese: Introduces a sharp flavor profile—you’re going to love this touch!
• Milk: Adds moisture and creaminess, ensuring the pie isn’t too dry.
• Chopped fresh parsley: Adds a burst of color and freshness, brightening up the pie.

For even more customization, consider adding other vegetables like bell peppers or spinach. You can also swap in fresh herbs for dried, depending on what you have on hand. The precise measurements are listed at the bottom of this article, easily printable for your convenience!

How to Make Summer Garden Crustless Zucchini Pie

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

First things first—let’s get that oven ready! Preheat it to 375°F (190°C). This is the perfect temperature for achieving that lovely golden top and fluffy texture that we all crave.

Step 2: Prepare the Zucchini

Take your shredded zucchini and toss it with salt in a colander. Let it drain for about 10 minutes. This helps remove excess moisture, ensuring our pie isn’t soggy. After it drains, use a clean kitchen towel to squeeze out any remaining moisture. Trust me, this step is vital for getting the best texture!

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

Now, grab a medium skillet and warm the olive oil over medium heat. Add in the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes transparent, which takes about 4 minutes. The smell is heavenly! Next, toss in the minced garlic and cook for another minute. Just until fragrant! Remove it from heat once done.

Step 4: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, dried oregano, dried basil, and black pepper. This blend adds a lovely depth of flavor, enhancing our zucchini pie!

Step 5: Combine All Ingredients

Time to bring it all together! Add your drained zucchini, sautéed onion and garlic, lightly beaten eggs, mozzarella, Parmesan, milk, and parsley into the bowl of dry ingredients. Stir until everything is well combined. You want a beautiful, cohesive mixture that screams summer deliciousness!

Step 6: Bake the Pie

Pour the mighty zucchini mixture into your greased 9-inch pie dish, spreading it evenly. Now, it’s time for the oven magic! Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the top is lightly golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. This is where the anticipation builds!

Step 7: Cooling and Serving

Once it’s out of the oven, let your Summer Garden Crustless Zucchini Pie cool for a few minutes. This will make slicing easier! Serve warm or at room temperature, and watch as smiles light up the faces of your loved ones. Each bite is like a hug from your summer garden!

Tips for Success

• Make sure to drain the zucchini thoroughly to avoid a soggy pie.
• Use fresh herbs if you have them; they elevate flavors beautifully.
• Don’t skip the cooling step; it helps with slicing the pie.
• Experiment with different cheeses for a unique flavor profile.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container; reheat easily for a quick meal!

Equipment Needed

• 9-inch pie dish: A standard dish works, but a cast-iron skillet adds delightful texture.
• Colander: Essential for draining zucchini; a fine mesh strainer can serve as a substitute.
• Medium skillet: A frying pan will do just as well for sautéing.
• Large mixing bowl: Any mixing bowl can work; just ensure it’s spacious!
• Whisk: Ideal for combining dry ingredients; a fork can be an alternative.

Variations on Summer Garden Crustless Zucchini Pie

• For a protein boost, add cooked and crumbled sausage or diced ham for a heartier dish.
• Swap out zucchini for other summer vegetables like yellow squash or grated carrots for a different flavor twist.
• Experiment with spices; add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
• Going gluten-free? Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for the same great taste.
• Make it dairy-free by using almond milk and vegan cheese alternatives, perfect for lactose-intolerant friends!

Serving Suggestions

• Pair your Summer Garden Crustless Zucchini Pie with a light salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette for a refreshing meal.
• A chilled glass of iced tea or white wine complements the flavors beautifully.
• Consider garnishing with extra parsley for a pop of color.
• Serve alongside fresh fruit for a complete summer spread!

FAQs about Summer Garden Crustless Zucchini Pie

Can I prepare the Summer Garden Crustless Zucchini Pie ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can mix and prepare the pie beforehand. Just cover it and store it in the fridge. When you’re ready, pop it in the oven. It’s a fantastic time-saver for busy moms!

What can I serve with this zucchini pie?
Pair it with a light salad or whipped cream to really enhance the flavors. Drinks, like iced tea or lemonade, serve as refreshing complements to enjoy a complete meal.

Can I use frozen zucchini for this recipe?
While fresh zucchini is best for flavor and texture, you can use frozen zucchini. Just be sure to thaw and squeeze out the moisture first to prevent sogginess!

How do I store leftovers of the pie?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The pie keeps well for a few days. Just simply reheat in the microwave or oven.

Is this pie suitable for a gluten-free diet?
Yes! You can easily make the Summer Garden Crustless Zucchini Pie gluten-free by substituting all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. It’ll taste just as good!

Final Thoughts

In just 45 minutes, the Summer Garden Crustless Zucchini Pie transforms fresh zucchini into a dish that brings joy to any table. It’s more than just a recipe; it’s a celebration of summer flavors and the joy of cooking with loved ones. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a delightful brunch with friends, this pie fits right in. Plus, the ease of preparation means you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying those golden moments. I hope this dish becomes a beloved staple in your home, creating delicious memories along the way!

Print