Craving pizza but looking for a lighter, veggie-packed option? Zucchini pizza bites are the perfect solution! These mini, customizable delights are super easy to make, a great way to use up zucchini, and a hit with everyone.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
- Zucchini: Fresh and firm zucchini works best. You can use green or yellow varieties.
- Pizza Sauce: Use your favorite marinara or pizza sauce.
- Cheese: Mozzarella is classic, but a blend of cheddar or Monterey Jack works too. Dairy-free cheese is an easy swap.
- Toppings: Pepperoni, cooked sausage, bell peppers, mushrooms, or olives are great choices. Keep them small!
Ingredients
- 2 medium zucchinis
- 1/2 cup pizza sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup mini pepperonis (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
- Total Time: 30-35 minutes
- Servings: 4 (approx. 12-15 bites)
- Tools Needed: Baking sheet, parchment paper, sharp knife, measuring cups and spoons.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare Your Zucchini
Wash and trim both ends of your zucchinis. Slice them into 1/4-inch thick rounds. Lay the slices on paper towels and gently blot to remove excess moisture; this helps prevent soggy bites.
2. Arrange on Baking Sheet
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Arrange the zucchini slices in a single layer, making sure they don’t overlap.
3. Build Your Zucchini Pizza Bites
Spoon about half a teaspoon of pizza sauce onto each zucchini slice, spreading it almost to the edges. Sprinkle a generous pinch of shredded mozzarella cheese over the sauce on each bite.
4. Add Your Favorite Toppings
Now’s the fun part! If using mini pepperonis, place one or two on top of the cheese. Sprinkle with dried oregano and a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like a little heat.
5. Bake to Perfection
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the zucchini is tender-crisp. Watch them closely so they don’t burn.
6. Serve and Enjoy
Carefully remove the zucchini pizza bites from the oven. Let them cool for a minute or two before serving, as the cheese will be very hot. These are best enjoyed warm!
Storage Instructions
Store any leftover zucchini pizza bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in a toaster oven or in a conventional oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes until warmed through and the cheese is melty again. Microwaving is an option, but they might be less crispy.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I use different vegetables for the base?
A: Yes! You can try bell pepper halves, eggplant slices, or even portobello mushroom caps for a similar concept.
Q: My zucchini pizza bites are watery, what went wrong?
A: You likely skipped blotting the zucchini. This step is crucial for removing excess moisture and keeping your bites from getting soggy.
Q: Can I prepare these ahead of time?
A: You can slice and blot the zucchini ahead of time. It’s best to assemble and bake the zucchini pizza bites just before serving for the freshest taste and texture.
Q: What if I don’t have mini pepperoni?
A: You can use regular pepperoni and cut it into smaller pieces. Any small topping works great for these zucchini pizza bites.
Q: Are these good for meal prep?
A: While best fresh, they do reheat well. They make a great light lunch or snack option.