Summer "Apple" Pie
A refreshing summer dessert that combines tender zucchini with a sweet lemon and cinnamon flavor, all nestled in a classic baked pie shell. This unique treat offers a light, fruity twist perfect for warm weather gatherings and those seeking a delicious, vegetable-infused dessert option.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix together in a saucepan zucchini, sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, water and cinnamon; bring to a boil.
- Cook until zucchini is tender.
- Pour into baked pie shell.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or a splash of vanilla extract to the zucchini mixture. If you prefer a sweeter pie, you can increase the sugar by a couple of tablespoons. For a gluten-free option, use a gluten-free pie shell instead of a traditional one. This recipe can also be adapted to use yellow summer squash if zucchini isn't available.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Summer 'Apple' Pie slightly warm or chilled, topped with a dollop of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast. This pie pairs beautifully with Rice Surprise Salad as a refreshing side dish, making it perfect for summer gatherings or picnics. Consider garnishing with fresh mint leaves for added color and flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover pie in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap or in an airtight container, for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual slices in the microwave for 20-30 seconds or warm the entire pie in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Summer "Apple" Pie contains roughly 63 calories, with 1g protein, 13g carbohydrates, and 1g fat.
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 use frozen zucchini for this recipe?
Using frozen zucchini is not recommended, as it can become mushy when thawed and may alter the pie's texture. Fresh zucchini provides the best results, ensuring that the filling remains tender yet holds its shape. If fresh zucchini is not available, consider using other summer squash varieties.
How can I make this pie vegan?
To make the Summer 'Apple' Pie vegan, ensure that the pie shell is dairy-free or make a homemade crust using vegan butter or coconut oil. The filling is already plant-based, but check that any added ingredients like whipped cream or ice cream are also dairy-free to keep the dish entirely vegan.
What can I do if the filling is too runny?
If your filling turns out too runny, you can thicken it by returning it to the saucepan and adding a bit more cornstarch mixed with cold water. Cook for a few more minutes until thickened. Ensure to adjust the cooking time and keep stirring to avoid lumps.
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).