🥒 Classic Zucchini Slice Recipe
Description:
The Classic Zucchini Slice is an Australian staple — a simple, savory slice that’s perfect for lunchboxes, light dinners, picnics, or brunch. It’s a moist, cheesy bake loaded with zucchini, eggs, bacon, and onion, bound together with a touch of flour. It’s delicious warm or cold, easy to prepare, and makes for a protein-packed, veggie-filled meal.
📋 Ingredients:
- 5 large eggs
- 150g (1 cup) self-raising flour, sifted
- 375g zucchini (about 2 medium), grated
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 200g rindless bacon, chopped
- 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil (or light olive oil)
🔪 Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease and line a 20×30 cm (8×12 inch) baking dish with baking paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, lightly beat the eggs.
- Add flour and mix until smooth (don’t worry if it’s slightly lumpy).
- Stir in the grated zucchini, onion, bacon, cheese, and oil. Mix until well combined.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and smooth the top.
- Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until golden on top and a skewer comes out clean from the center.
- Cool slightly before slicing into squares
📝 Notes:
- Grating Zucchini: No need to peel. Squeeze out excess moisture using a clean kitchen towel if your mixture seems too wet.
- Bacon Substitution: You can use chopped ham or smoked turkey for a leaner option.
- Flour Alternative: Use wholemeal self-raising flour for added fiber.
- Make it Vegetarian: Omit the bacon or replace with mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes.
💡 Tips:
- Make ahead and refrigerate for up to 4 days.
- Freeze individual portions for up to 2 months — great for meal prep!
- Serve with a green salad for a balanced meal.
- Add chopped herbs like parsley or chives for a flavor boost.
🍽️ Servings:
Makes 8 slices (approx. 1 large slice per serving).
🔢 Nutritional Information (per slice, approx.):
- Calories: 220 kcal
- Protein: 11g
- Fat: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sodium: 400mg
(Values may vary based on specific brands and modifications.)
🌿 Health Benefits:
- Zucchini is low in calories, high in water, and a good source of vitamin C and potassium.
- Eggs provide high-quality protein and healthy fats.
- Cheese adds calcium and protein.
- Onions offer antioxidants and potential anti-inflammatory benefits.
❓Q&A:
Q: Can I make this gluten-free?
A: Yes! Use a gluten-free self-raising flour blend, or mix 1 cup gluten-free plain flour with 2 tsp baking powder.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days, or freeze slices in parchment paper and resealable bags for up to 2 months.
Q: Can I add other vegetables?
A: Absolutely! Try adding grated carrot, corn kernels, or finely chopped capsicum for variety.