Description
These Easy Zucchini Pizza Bites are a healthy and delicious appetizer or snack that combines fresh zucchini rounds topped with marinara sauce, mozzarella cheese, and fresh basil. Baked to perfection until the cheese is bubbly and golden, these bites are perfect for a low-carb pizza alternative or a veggie-packed treat.
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables
- 1 large or 2 small zucchini (about 8 ounces)
Sauce and Cheese
- 1/2 cup your favorite marinara sauce
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Shredded parmesan cheese for topping (optional)
Herbs
- 6 basil leaves, torn into small pieces
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190 degrees Celsius) to prepare for baking the zucchini pizza bites.
- Slice Zucchini: Using a mandoline or a sharp knife, slice the zucchini into 1/2-inch thick rounds ensuring even thickness for uniform cooking.
- Remove Moisture: Lay the zucchini slices on a paper towel and sprinkle lightly with salt. Let them sit for a few minutes to draw out excess moisture, then pat dry with another paper towel to avoid soggy bites.
- Prepare Baking Sheet: Spray a large baking sheet with non-stick cooking spray or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Arrange the zucchini rounds in a single layer, ensuring they don’t overlap.
- Add Toppings: Spoon a small amount of marinara sauce over each zucchini slice, then sprinkle with shredded mozzarella cheese evenly across all pieces.
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 10 to 12 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and beginning to brown around the edges.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and immediately sprinkle with torn fresh basil leaves and optional shredded parmesan cheese. Serve warm as a delicious appetizer or snack.
Notes
- Patting the zucchini dry after salting helps prevent sogginess during baking.
- You can substitute marinara sauce with your favorite pizza or tomato sauce.
- Optional toppings like olives, pepperoni, or mushrooms can be added before baking for extra flavor.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days and reheat in the oven for best texture.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 3-4 bites
- Calories: 70
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 230mg
- Fat: 3.5g
- Saturated Fat: 1.8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1.2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 1.5g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 12mg
