Summer Garden Crustless Zucchini Pie

Easy low carb Summer Garden Crustless Zucchini Pie is a delightful dish that celebrates the flavors of summer. This nutritious pie is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even as a light dinner option. Packed with protein and vibrant vegetables, it caters to various dietary preferences and can be easily customized to suit your taste. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply enjoying a quiet meal at home, this zucchini pie will surely impress your family and friends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Healthy and Nutritious: This crustless zucchini pie is filled with fresh vegetables, making it a guilt-free choice packed with vitamins.
• Low Carb Delight: Perfect for those following low-carb diets, this dish offers all the flavor without the added carbs of traditional pies.
• Versatile Add-ins: Customize your pie by adding different veggies or cheeses based on what you have on hand.
• Great for Meal Prep: Cook once and enjoy multiple servings throughout the week. It’s freezer-friendly too!
• Quick and Easy to Make: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time.

Tools and Preparation

To create your Summer Garden Crustless Zucchini Pie, you’ll need a few essential tools. Having the right equipment makes the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Nonstick cooking spray
• Large skillet
• Deep dish pie pan (or springform pan)
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Nonstick cooking spray: Ensures that your pie doesn’t stick to the pan, making for easy removal and clean-up.
• Large skillet: Ideal for sautéing vegetables evenly, helping to unlock their flavors.
• Mixing bowl: Provides ample space for whisking together ingredients, ensuring an even mixture.

Ingredients

For the Base

• Cooking spray
• ½ tablespoon olive oil or avocado oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 bunch green onions, diced (reserve some green scallions for topping)
• 1 cup sliced baby bella mushrooms
• ¾ cup grape or cherry tomatoes, halved
• ½ small red bell pepper, diced
• ½ cup sweet corn, fresh or frozen
• 1 medium zucchini, sliced into ¼ inch rounds

For the Egg Mixture

• Freshly ground salt and black pepper
• 6 large eggs
• ¼ cup unsweetened almond milk (or any milk)
• 2 tablespoons sifted coconut flour (or sub 1/4 cup regular flour)
• 3-5 large basil leaves, julienned
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided

How to Make Summer Garden Crustless Zucchini Pie

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Grease a 9-inch deep dish pie pan (or a 9-inch springform pan) with nonstick cooking spray.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In a large skillet over medium-high heat:
1. Add olive oil.
2. Once hot, add minced garlic and diced green onions. Sauté until fragrant.
3. Stir in sliced mushrooms, halved tomatoes, diced red bell pepper, and corn. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Cook for a few minutes until mushrooms soften but do not cook the zucchini yet. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Egg Mixture

In a large mixing bowl:
1. Whisk together eggs, almond milk, sifted coconut flour, julienned basil leaves, ½ cup of shredded cheese, and salt & pepper until well combined.

Step 4: Assemble the Pie

1. Spread all sautéed veggies (including zucchini) evenly in the greased pie pan.
2. Pour the egg mixture over the veggies.
3. Sprinkle remaining ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese on top.

Step 5: Bake

Bake in preheated oven for about 35-50 minutes or until:
1. The egg sets,
2. The top puffs up,
3. The edges turn slightly golden.

Remove from heat and allow cooling for about 10 minutes before slicing into six pieces. Let it cool completely before storing in the fridge.

Enjoy your healthy Summer Garden Crustless Zucchini Pie!

How to Serve Summer Garden Crustless Zucchini Pie

Serving your Summer Garden Crustless Zucchini Pie can be as delightful as making it. This versatile dish pairs well with various accompaniments, making it a perfect choice for breakfast, brunch, or even dinner. Here are some delicious serving suggestions to enhance your meal.

With a Side Salad

• A fresh green salad adds a crisp contrast to the warm pie. Consider using mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette for extra flavor.

Topped with Avocado

• Slices of ripe avocado on top of each slice bring creaminess and healthy fats, making for a richer bite.

Accompanied by Greek Yogurt

• A dollop of Greek yogurt offers a tangy twist and pairs well with the savory flavors of the zucchini pie.

Served with Hot Sauce

• For those who enjoy some heat, a drizzle of hot sauce will elevate the flavor profile and add an exciting kick.

Paired with Fresh Herbs

• Garnishing with fresh herbs like basil or parsley not only brightens the presentation but also enhances the overall taste.

With Sliced Fruit

• A side of seasonal fruit like berries or melon provides a sweet contrast that complements the savory pie beautifully.

How to Perfect Summer Garden Crustless Zucchini Pie

To ensure your Summer Garden Crustless Zucchini Pie turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips that will elevate your cooking game.

• Use Fresh Vegetables: Fresh produce enhances flavor and texture. Opt for seasonal vegetables for the best taste.

• Preheat Your Oven: Always preheat the oven before baking. This step ensures even cooking and helps the pie achieve that lovely golden color.

• Don’t Overmix: When combining eggs and other ingredients, mix gently. Overmixing can lead to a dense texture rather than a fluffy pie.

• Adjust Seasonings: Taste your vegetable mixture before adding it to the pie. Adjust salt and pepper based on your personal preference for a more customized flavor.

• Let It Rest: Allowing the pie to cool slightly before slicing helps it set better and makes serving easier.

• Experiment with Add-Ins: Feel free to customize with other ingredients like different cheeses or proteins for a unique twist on this classic recipe.

Best Side Dishes for Summer Garden Crustless Zucchini Pie

Pairing side dishes with your Summer Garden Crustless Zucchini Pie can enhance its appeal. Here are some fantastic options that complement its flavors perfectly:

1. Mixed Green Salad
   A light salad with vinaigrette balances the richness of the pie while adding freshness.

2. Roasted Asparagus
   Tender asparagus drizzled with olive oil provides a crunchy, savory addition that works well alongside zucchini pie.

3. Quinoa Pilaf
   Fluffy quinoa mixed with herbs and spices makes for a nutritious side that complements the dish’s flavors beautifully.

4. Sautéed Spinach
   Quick-cooked spinach seasoned with garlic adds color and nutritional value to your plate; plus, it’s easy to prepare!

5. Garlic Breadsticks
   Soft breadsticks brushed with garlic butter make an indulgent pairing for those who love carbs alongside their veggie dish.

6. Fruit Salad
   A refreshing fruit salad brings sweetness and acidity which contrasts nicely with the savory elements of zucchini pie.

7. Coleslaw
   Creamy coleslaw provides crunch and tanginess, creating an enjoyable textural balance against the soft zucchini pie.

8. Cucumber Raita
   This yogurt-based cucumber dip is refreshing; serve it chilled on the side for a cooling effect with every bite!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can elevate your Summer Garden Crustless Zucchini Pie experience. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Ignoring ingredient freshness: Ensure your vegetables are fresh for the best flavor. Stale ingredients can lead to a bland pie.

• Overcrowding the pie pan: Adding too many vegetables can cause uneven cooking. Stick to the recommended amounts for a balanced bite.

• Skipping seasoning: Not seasoning properly may result in a dull taste. Always season veggies during cooking and adjust salt and pepper in the egg mixture.

• Rushing the cooling process: Cutting into the pie too soon can make it fall apart. Allow it to cool for at least 10 minutes for better slicing.

• Using the wrong pan: A shallow pan may not hold all the filling, leading to spills. Use a deep dish or springform pan as specified.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Summer Garden Crustless Zucchini Pie

• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or foil.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Summer Garden Crustless Zucchini Pie

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake covered with foil for about 20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on high for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over medium heat, cover, and heat for about 5-7 minutes until warm.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about the Summer Garden Crustless Zucchini Pie that you might find helpful.

Can I customize my Summer Garden Crustless Zucchini Pie?

Yes! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or protein sources like cooked bacon or spinach for unique flavors.

How do I know when my zucchini pie is done?

The pie is ready when it puffs up slightly and turns golden on top. A toothpick inserted should come out clean.

Can I use other types of cheese?

Absolutely! Swap cheddar with mozzarella, feta, or goat cheese for different flavors in your crustless zucchini pie.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes, this low-carb zucchini pie is perfect for meal prep and makes healthy breakfasts or snacks throughout the week!

Final Thoughts

The Summer Garden Crustless Zucchini Pie is not only delicious but also versatile. With a variety of vegetables and add-ins, you can tailor it to suit your tastes perfectly. Whether enjoyed fresh from the oven or reheated later, this pie brings joy and comfort to any table—try it today!