If you’re looking for a delicious, versatile dish that works for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, the Zucchini and Bacon Slice is perfect! Easy to prepare and full of healthy ingredients, this dish is great served hot or cold. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or looking for a quick meal, this recipe is a winner. Packed with the goodness of zucchini, bacon, and a blend of other veggies, it’s an ideal dish to keep in the fridge for a quick snack or to send with kids in their lunch boxes. Read on to find out how to make this scrumptious slice!
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Zucchini and Bacon Slice
This Zucchini and Bacon Slice is incredibly easy to make, and it offers a healthy alternative to heavier meals. Not only is it perfect for meal prep, but it’s also highly versatile. You can add whatever vegetables you have in the fridge and switch out the bacon for ham if you prefer. The combination of zucchini and bacon makes this slice flavorful and satisfying.
What’s more, the slice is quick to prepare, and it can be served at any time of the day. From breakfast to dinner, it’s a flexible dish that the whole family will love.
Ingredients for Zucchini and Bacon Slice
Here’s a list of the ingredients you’ll need to create this delicious slice. Each ingredient adds its own unique flavor, texture, and nutritional value to the dish:
• Zucchini: Adds moisture, a mild flavor, and is packed with nutrients like vitamins A and C.
• Carrot: Provides a slight sweetness and adds crunch and color to the slice.
• Olive Oil: Used for sautéing the onion and bacon, adding richness and healthy fats.
• Brown Onion: Adds a savory base flavor, complementing the other ingredients.
• Bacon Slices: Offers a smoky, savory flavor, making the dish hearty and satisfying.
• Red Capsicum (Bell Pepper): Adds sweetness, crunch, and a burst of color.
• Eggs: Help bind the ingredients together and give the slice a fluffy texture.
• Milk: Adds moisture and richness to the mixture.
• Self-Raising Flour: Ensures the slice rises properly during baking, providing structure.
• Grated Cheddar Cheese: Melts beautifully, adding a creamy texture and savory flavor.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning the dish, balancing the flavors.
Alternative Ingredient Suggestions
If you’re missing any of the ingredients or prefer to tweak the recipe, here are some alternatives to consider:
• Mushrooms: If you want a different veggie, mushrooms make a great substitute for bell pepper or zucchini.
• Corn: Adds a burst of sweetness and texture.
• Ham: Instead of bacon, ham can be used for a milder flavor.
• Gluten-Free Flour: For those who prefer gluten-free options, simply use a gluten-free flour blend instead of self-raising flour.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Zucchini and Bacon Slice
Now that you have the ingredients ready, let’s walk through the steps to create your Zucchini and Bacon Slice.
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Line a square (9 x 9 inches) baking dish with baking paper to prevent sticking.
- Grate the zucchini and carrot into a colander. Sprinkle with a pinch of salt and let them sit for 10 minutes to release excess moisture.
- While the vegetables are draining, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Add the onion and bacon, cooking until the onion is golden and the bacon is crisp. Remove from heat and set aside to cool slightly.
- Once the zucchini and carrot have released moisture, use your hands to squeeze out as much liquid as possible. Add them to a large mixing bowl.
- Add the diced bell pepper, onion, bacon, cheese, and flour to the bowl. Stir to combine.
- In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs, milk, remaining olive oil, salt, and pepper. Pour the egg mixture into the vegetable and bacon mixture and stir to combine.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and smooth the top. Sprinkle the reserved cheese over the top for a golden finish.
- Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the slice is firm to the touch and cooked through.
- Allow the slice to cool, then cut it into squares for serving.
Tips & Tricks for Perfect Zucchini and Bacon Slice
To ensure your Zucchini and Bacon Slice turns out perfectly, here are a few helpful tips:
• Don’t skip draining the zucchini: If you skip this step, your slice might turn out soggy. Grating and wringing out the zucchini and carrot is essential for a firm, non-soggy slice.
• Flavor Boosters: You can experiment by adding other herbs and spices, such as garlic powder or thyme, to enhance the flavor.
• Storage: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days, or freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply microwave or bake again.
• Meal Prep: This recipe is perfect for meal prepping. Make a batch on the weekend and enjoy it throughout the week.
Pairing Ideas and Variations
This Zucchini and Bacon Slice is versatile and can be paired with a variety of side dishes. Here are a few ideas:
• Salads: Serve with a fresh green salad or a tomato and cucumber salad for a light, refreshing meal.
• Dips: Pair with a creamy dip like tzatziki or guacamole for added flavor.
• Spicy Version: Add a chopped chili or some hot sauce to the mixture for a spicy kick.
For make-ahead options, this slice can be frozen in individual portions for easy grab-and-go meals. Simply reheat in the oven or microwave when needed.
Why This Recipe Is Perfect for All Occasions
This Zucchini and Bacon Slice is not only delicious but also very adaptable. Whether you’re looking for a healthy lunch, a quick breakfast, or an easy dinner, it fits the bill. Its ability to be enjoyed hot or cold makes it ideal for picnics, school lunches, or meal prep. Plus, you can easily modify the recipe to suit your dietary preferences by swapping ingredients or adding extra vegetables.
Packed with fiber, protein, and essential nutrients, this slice is not just tasty but also nutritious. It’s a great way to sneak in more vegetables while enjoying the savory flavors of bacon and cheese.
Conclusion
The Zucchini and Bacon Slice is a fantastic recipe that brings together the perfect blend of flavors and textures, making it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. Whether you enjoy it hot or cold, as part of a family meal or a convenient lunchbox snack, it’s a simple yet satisfying dish. With its versatility, you can easily customize it to suit your dietary preferences and available ingredients. Plus, it’s an excellent way to enjoy the goodness of vegetables with the savory richness of bacon. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to create a slice that everyone will love!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use other vegetables in the Zucchini and Bacon Slice?
Absolutely! This recipe is highly versatile. You can replace the zucchini and bell pepper with vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or corn. Feel free to experiment with whatever vegetables you have in your fridge to make the dish your own!
Can I make this Zucchini and Bacon Slice ahead of time?
Yes, this dish is perfect for meal prep. You can bake it in advance, store it in the fridge for up to five days, or freeze it for up to three months. To reheat, simply microwave it or bake it in the oven.
Is there a way to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can make this Zucchini and Bacon Slice gluten-free by swapping the self-raising flour for a gluten-free flour blend. Be sure to also check that your baking powder is gluten-free, if necessary.
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Zucchini and Bacon Slice Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 9 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Australian
- Diet: Low Calorie
Description
This Zucchini and Bacon Slice is a quick, healthy, and versatile recipe that can be enjoyed hot or cold. Packed with zucchini, bacon, and other nutritious ingredients, it’s perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. It’s also great for meal prep, as it stores well in the fridge or freezer, making it a convenient option for busy days.
Ingredients
- 2 Zucchini, grated
- 1 Carrot, grated
- 2 tablespoon Olive Oil
- 1 Brown / Yellow Onion, diced
- 2 Bacon Slices / Rashers, diced
- ½ Red Capsicum / Bell Pepper, diced
- 5 Eggs, lightly whisked
- ¼ cup Milk
- 1 cup Self-Raising Flour
- 1 ¼ cup Grated Cheddar Cheese
- Salt and Pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F). Line a square (9 x 9 inches) baking dish with baking paper.
- Grate zucchini and carrot into a colander, sprinkle with salt and let sit for 10 minutes.
- Meanwhile, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Add onion and bacon, cooking until the onion is golden and bacon is crisp. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Once the zucchini and carrot have released moisture, squeeze out excess liquid with your hands. Add to a large mixing bowl.
- Add bell pepper, onion, bacon, cheese, and flour to the bowl. Stir to combine.
- In a separate bowl, whisk eggs, milk, remaining olive oil, salt, and pepper. Add this mixture to the vegetable-bacon mix and stir until fully combined.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and smooth the top. Sprinkle the reserved cheese over the top.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes or until firm to the touch and cooked through.
- Allow to cool, then cut into squares for serving.
Notes
- Don’t skip draining the moisture from the zucchini to avoid a soggy slice.
- If you don’t have self-raising flour, substitute with a mix of plain flour and 2 teaspoons of baking powder per cup.
- You can swap out bacon for ham or add other vegetables like mushrooms or corn.
- Freeze individual portions for later use. They can be defrosted overnight in the fridge.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square
- Calories: 194
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 13g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
