Zucchini Pizza Bites are a healthy and delicious low-carb alternative to traditional pizza, perfect for snacking or as an appetizer. These bites are easy to make, and they offer all the flavors of pizza with zucchini as the base!
Ingredients:
- 2 medium-sized zucchini, sliced into ½-inch thick rounds
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (or a mix of oregano and basil)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup marinara sauce (for dipping)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
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Prepare the zucchini:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Slice the zucchini into ½-inch thick rounds and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
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Season the zucchini:
- Drizzle the zucchini slices with olive oil and toss them gently to coat.
- Sprinkle the garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper evenly over the zucchini slices.
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Bake the zucchini:
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the zucchini is tender but still holds its shape.
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Add the “pizza” toppings:
- Remove the zucchini from the oven and top each slice with a spoonful of marinara sauce and a generous amount of shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Optionally, sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.
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Melt the cheese:
- Return the baking sheet to the oven and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
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Serve:
- Remove the zucchini pizza bites from the oven and let them cool slightly.
- Garnish with fresh basil (if using) and serve warm, either on their own or with extra marinara sauce for dipping.
Tips:
- Add toppings: Feel free to customize your zucchini pizza bites by adding pepperoni, mushrooms, or other favorite pizza toppings before baking.
- For crispier bites: After baking the zucchini with the toppings, broil the bites for 1-2 minutes to get the cheese extra bubbly and golden.
- Make-ahead: You can prep the zucchini and toppings ahead of time and store them in the fridge for a quick bake later.
These Zucchini Pizza Bites are a tasty, nutritious snack that gives you all the pizza flavors with fewer carbs. Enjoy! 🍕🥒
