Zucchini Pizza Bites Recipe

Zucchini: Sliced into rounds, this serves as the base for the pizza bites.

Marinara sauce: Adds a rich, tomato flavor to each bite.

Mozzarella cheese: Shredded and melted on top for that gooey, cheesy goodness.

Mini pepperoni slices: Optional, but they add a classic pizza taste.

Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that enhances the overall flavor.

To achieve perfectly crispy zucchini slices, lightly salt them and let them sit for about 10 minutes before baking. This will draw out excess moisture, ensuring that your pizza bites don't become soggy. Make sure to pat them dry with a paper towel before adding the marinara sauce and cheese.

• zucchini - Substitute with eggplant: Eggplant has a similar texture and can hold up well when baked, making it a good alternative for the base of the pizza bites.

• zucchini - Substitute with portobello mushrooms: Portobello mushrooms have a meaty texture and can serve as a sturdy base for the toppings.

• marinara sauce - Substitute with pesto sauce: Pesto offers a different flavor profile with its basil and garlic notes, providing a fresh twist to the pizza bites.

• marinara sauce - Substitute with alfredo sauce: Alfredo sauce adds a creamy and rich texture, giving the pizza bites a different but delicious taste.

• shredded mozzarella cheese - Substitute with shredded cheddar cheese: Cheddar cheese melts well and adds a sharper flavor compared to mozzarella.

• shredded mozzarella cheese - Substitute with vegan cheese: For a dairy-free option, vegan cheese can be used to achieve a similar texture and melt.

• mini pepperoni slices - Substitute with turkey pepperoni: Turkey pepperoni is a leaner option that still provides the classic pepperoni flavor.

• mini pepperoni slices - Substitute with sliced olives: Olives add a salty and savory element, making them a good vegetarian alternative to pepperoni.

• italian seasoning - Substitute with herbes de Provence: Herbes de Provence offers a different blend of herbs that can complement the flavors of the pizza bites.

• italian seasoning - Substitute with oregano and basil: A mix of oregano and basil can mimic the flavors of Italian seasoning, providing a similar taste profile.

• Allow the zucchini pizza bites to cool completely before storing. This helps prevent condensation, which can make them soggy.
• Place the cooled bites in an airtight container, layering them with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
• Store the container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes or until warmed through.
• For freezing, arrange the cooled bites on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid, about 1-2 hours.
• Once frozen, transfer the bites to a freezer-safe bag or container, separating layers with parchment paper. They can be frozen for up to 2 months.
• To reheat from frozen, place the bites on a baking sheet and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes or until heated through and the cheese is bubbly.
• Avoid microwaving as it can make the zucchini soggy and the cheese rubbery.

• Oven Method: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the leftover zucchini pizza bites on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 5-7 minutes until the mozzarella cheese is melted and bubbly again. This method ensures the zucchini remains crisp.

• Toaster Oven Method: Set your toaster oven to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the zucchini pizza bites on the toaster oven tray. Heat for 5-7 minutes until the cheese is gooey and the edges are slightly crispy. This is a quick and efficient way to reheat small batches.

• Microwave Method: Place the zucchini pizza bites on a microwave-safe plate. Cover them with a microwave-safe lid or another plate to prevent splattering. Microwave on high for 30-45 seconds. Note that this method may make the zucchini a bit softer, but it’s the fastest option.

• Air Fryer Method: Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the zucchini pizza bites in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Heat for 3-5 minutes until the cheese is melted and the zucchini is crispy. This method gives a nice, crunchy texture.

• Skillet Method: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Place the zucchini pizza bites in the skillet and cover with a lid. Heat for 3-4 minutes until the cheese is melted and the zucchini is warmed through. This method helps maintain the crispiness of the zucchini.

• Oven: Used to bake the zucchini pizza bites at the required temperature of 400°F (200°C)

• Baking sheet: Provides a flat surface to place the zucchini slices on for baking

• Knife: Used to slice the zucchini into rounds

• Cutting board: Provides a stable surface for slicing the zucchini

• Spoon: Helps to spread the marinara sauce on each zucchini slice

• Measuring cups: Used to measure the marinara sauce and shredded mozzarella cheese

• Grater: If you need to shred the mozzarella cheese yourself

• Oven mitts: Protects your hands when removing the baking sheet from the hot oven

• Cooling rack: Allows the zucchini pizza bites to cool slightly after baking

Pre-slice the zucchini: Slice the zucchini in advance and store them in an airtight container in the fridge.

Use pre-shredded cheese: Save time by using pre-shredded mozzarella cheese instead of shredding it yourself.

Preheat the oven: Start preheating your oven while you prepare the ingredients to save time.

Assemble in batches: Lay out all the zucchini slices and top them assembly-line style to speed up the process.

Use parchment paper: Line your baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.