Cheesy Zucchini Pie
A savory zucchini and cheese pie with a flaky crust, vibrant herbs, and a cheesy filling, perfect for brunch or light dinners, appealing to vegetable lovers and cheese enthusiasts.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Prick the bottom and sides of the pie crust.
- Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 6 to 7 minutes, then let cool.
- Spread Dijon mustard evenly over the bottom of the crust.
- Melt margarine in a large skillet over low heat.
- Add sliced zucchini and chopped onion; cook, stirring occasionally.
- Stir in chopped parsley, basil, garlic powder, and oregano; cover and simmer for 5 to 7 minutes.
- Combine beaten eggs and shredded mozzarella cheese; stir into the zucchini mixture.
- Pour the mixture into the pastry shell.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20 to 25 minutes or until lightly browned.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, you can substitute the margarine with olive oil or use a low-fat cheese. If zucchini is not available, yellow squash can work as a great substitute. Make sure to squeeze out excess moisture from the zucchini to prevent a soggy crust. For enhanced flavor, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or using fresh herbs instead of dried ones.
Serving Suggestions
This Cheesy Zucchini Pie is delicious on its own but pairs beautifully with a fresh salad, such as a Turnip Salad Casserole, or a light soup for a complete meal. Consider serving it as an appetizer or a side dish at gatherings. It also makes a great addition to brunch menus, complementing dishes like Mom's Macaroni.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual slices in the microwave for about 30-60 seconds or warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes until heated through. This pie can also be enjoyed cold for a refreshing snack.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheesy Zucchini Pie contains roughly 280 calories, with 14g protein, 27g carbohydrates, and 15g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (40% of the Daily Value), iron (31% of the Daily Value), and protein (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. It also contributes 7g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this pie ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the pie a day in advance. Assemble the pie, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. When ready to serve, bake it as directed. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making it taste even better.
What can I use instead of Mozzarella cheese?
If you're looking for a different cheese, you can use Cheddar or a blend of cheeses for a bolder flavor. Feta cheese can also provide a nice tangy contrast to the zucchini. Just keep in mind that the texture may vary slightly.
Is this recipe suitable for freezing?
Yes, you can freeze the Cheesy Zucchini Pie. Allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake from frozen at 375°F (190°C) until heated through.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).