This savoury Zucchini Slice is an Aussie classic that’s perfect any time of day. Whether you’re packing it for a school lunch, slicing it for a family dinner, or serving it at a picnic, its golden top and soft, cheesy center always hit the spot.
Packed with zucchini, cheese, onion, and crispy bits of bacon, this bake is like a crustless quiche but even easier to whip up. It stores well, reheats beautifully, and can be enjoyed hot or cold – making it a practical and delicious staple in any home cook’s rotation.
Full Recipe:
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3 medium zucchinis, grated and well-drained
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1 cup self-raising flour
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2 bacon rashers, chopped
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5 large eggs
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1 cup cheddar cheese, grated
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1/4 cup parmesan cheese, finely grated
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1 brown onion, finely chopped
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1 tbsp butter, softened
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Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
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Preheat oven to 180°C (360°F). Grease or line a wide rectangular baking dish.
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In a medium pan over medium heat, cook chopped bacon until slightly browned. Add onion and cook until softened. Remove from heat.
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In a large bowl, mix flour, cheddar, parmesan, butter, eggs, salt, and pepper until well combined.
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Fold in the grated and drained zucchini.
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Add cooked bacon and onion to the bowl and stir to combine.
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Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and smooth the top.
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Bake for 40 minutes or until golden brown on top and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 40 minutes | Total Time: 50 minutes
Kcal: 220 kcal | Servings: 6
Recipe Overview
Zucchini Slice is an incredibly versatile dish that has earned its place in many home kitchens, especially in Australia, where it’s often considered a beloved classic. It’s a savory bake that features grated zucchini, eggs, bacon, and cheese, creating a simple yet flavorful meal. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner, a lunchbox-friendly option, or a dish to bring to a picnic, Zucchini Slice fits the bill. What makes it particularly popular is how easy it is to customize — you can adapt it to fit dietary preferences, use up leftovers, or add extra veggies for a more hearty meal. And best of all, it can be served hot or cold, making it perfect for any occasion.
History and Origin
Zucchini Slice, also known as Zucchini Egg Bake or even “impossible pie” in some regions, is a dish that hails from Australia, where it has become a staple in many households. This dish has roots in the rich tradition of Australian home-cooking, where simplicity, convenience, and the use of local ingredients take center stage. The dish is often referred to as “impossible pie” because of how effortlessly the ingredients come together to form a beautiful, cohesive bake without much fuss or complexity.
Zucchini itself is a vegetable that has been a staple in kitchens worldwide, known for its mild flavor and versatility. The Australian variety of this dish commonly features zucchini as the star ingredient, paired with bacon, onions, and cheese, all set in a savory egg-based batter. It’s often seen as a twist on the classic quiche but without the laborious preparation of a pastry crust.
The dish’s popularity can also be attributed to its adaptability. Originally, Zucchini Slice was a humble, economical way to use up leftover ingredients like bacon, cheese, and various vegetables, making it a perfect meal for busy families or those trying to avoid food waste. Over time, it evolved into a recipe that’s now enjoyed year-round for everything from casual family dinners to party platters and picnics.
Variations and Adaptations
While the core ingredients of Zucchini Slice typically remain the same, there are countless variations of the dish that showcase the creativity and flexibility it offers. For example, the recipe can easily be made vegetarian by omitting the bacon and instead adding extra vegetables such as mushrooms, bell peppers, or even sweet potato for added flavor. Some versions also incorporate fresh herbs like basil, parsley, or dill, which bring a refreshing burst of green to the dish.
If you’re looking to make the slice gluten-free, swapping out the self-raising flour for a gluten-free alternative such as rice flour or almond flour will do the trick. Just remember to also add a little extra baking powder to ensure the slice rises properly. For those watching their calorie intake, the recipe can be lightened up by reducing the amount of cheese or opting for lower-fat cheese options.
In other regions of the world, variations of the dish appear as well. In Europe, particularly in Italy, you might find a similar concept in the form of a frittata, which uses the same base ingredients but may not include flour or bacon. Here, the focus is more on the eggs and vegetables, allowing for a fluffier, lighter texture. In the United States, some people may make a “zucchini casserole” that incorporates breadcrumbs or a light coating of breadcrumbs on top for added crunch, which changes the texture of the dish significantly.
Nutritional Information
Zucchini Slice is a well-balanced meal that packs a punch in terms of both flavor and nutrition. It’s relatively low in carbohydrates and high in protein, thanks to the eggs and cheese, making it a great option for those following low-carb or high-protein diets. A typical serving of Zucchini Slice (around a generous 1/6 of the total bake) contains about 220-250 calories, depending on the amount of cheese used and whether any additional ingredients are added.
The zucchini, being the main ingredient, contributes valuable micronutrients such as vitamin C, potassium, and folate. It’s also a good source of fiber, which aids in digestion and helps keep you feeling fuller for longer. The cheese offers calcium and protein, while the bacon (or any meat substitute) adds a savory umami flavor and extra protein to the dish.
One of the key benefits of this dish is that it’s easy to adapt based on your dietary needs. For example, if you’re following a dairy-free diet, you can substitute the cheese with a plant-based alternative and omit the bacon. This makes the dish accessible to a wider range of people, from vegetarians to those with lactose intolerance.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
Zucchini Slice is incredibly versatile when it comes to serving suggestions. It can be served as a main dish, a side dish, or even as part of a buffet-style spread at a party.
For a light lunch or dinner, try pairing a slice of Zucchini Slice with a fresh, crisp green salad. A simple side of mixed greens dressed in olive oil and lemon can help balance the richness of the dish, adding brightness to each bite. If you’re looking for a heartier meal, serve it alongside roasted potatoes, a quinoa salad, or a Mediterranean chickpea salad.
For an elevated touch, add a dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of homemade tomato chutney on top to complement the savory flavors of the zucchini and bacon. If you’re preparing it for a brunch or picnic, it pairs wonderfully with fresh fruit or even some sliced cold meats, like prosciutto or salami, for a more indulgent spread.
When it comes to beverages, Zucchini Slice is an excellent companion to a chilled glass of white wine, such as a crisp Sauvignon Blanc, or a light beer. For a non-alcoholic option, a refreshing iced tea or sparkling water with a squeeze of lime would be the perfect complement.
Tips and Tricks for Success
To ensure your Zucchini Slice turns out perfectly, there are a few tips and tricks that will help you avoid common pitfalls.
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Squeeze out excess moisture from the zucchini: This is crucial for preventing a soggy slice. Grate the zucchini, place it in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth, and wring out as much water as possible. This will help the slice maintain a firm texture.
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Don’t skip the bacon step: Cooking the bacon with the onions adds depth of flavor to the dish. If you’re using vegetarian substitutes, try adding extra-seasoned vegetables or smoked tofu to mimic the savory richness that bacon imparts.
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Use a wide baking dish: A shallow baking dish allows the slice to cook more evenly and gives the top a nice golden brown color. If you’re using a deeper dish, you may need to adjust the baking time to ensure it cooks through.
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Check for doneness: If you’re unsure whether the slice is done, use a toothpick or skewer to test the center. If it comes out clean, the slice is ready.
Potential Health Benefits
The main ingredients in Zucchini Slice bring several health benefits. Zucchini itself is a great source of antioxidants, particularly lutein, which supports eye health. It’s also rich in water, which helps keep you hydrated. The eggs provide high-quality protein, essential amino acids, and vitamin B12, which supports energy metabolism and nerve function.
If you use lean cuts of bacon or substitute with plant-based proteins like tofu, you can reduce the fat content and make the dish even more heart-healthy. Additionally, by using whole wheat or gluten-free flour, you can increase the fiber content, further enhancing the digestive benefits of the dish.
Conclusion
Zucchini Slice is the ultimate comfort food that’s both simple and satisfying. Its ease of preparation and endless adaptability make it a recipe that will never go out of style. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, a picnic, or just looking for a healthy meal option that can be enjoyed hot or cold, this dish has you covered. So why not give it a try? You’ll be amazed by how quickly it becomes a new favorite in your kitchen!