Zucchini and Bacon Slice Recipe

This quick, easy, and healthy Zucchini and Bacon Slice is incredibly versatile. Meal prep a batch for the week and use it for breakfast, lunch, or dinner! This zucchini slice with bacon is great served hot or cold, so you can also pop it into kids’ lunch boxes.

Yield

• 9 slices

Total Time:

• • Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes

Ingredients:

• • 2 zucchini, grated

• • 1 carrot, grated
  • 2 tablespoons 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 cups grated cheddar cheese

• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. 1. Preheat the Oven:
      • • Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
        • Line a square (9 x 9 in / 23 x 23 cm) baking dish with baking paper.

   2. Prepare the Vegetables:
      • • Grate the zucchini and carrot into a colander, sprinkle with salt, and let sit for 10 minutes to drain excess moisture.
        • Meanwhile, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a frying pan over medium heat.
      • Add the diced onion and bacon, and cook, stirring regularly, until golden.
      • Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly.

1. 1. Combine Ingredients:
      • • Using your hands, squeeze as much excess moisture out of the zucchini and carrot as possible.
        • Place the drained zucchini and carrot in a large mixing bowl.
        • Add the diced capsicum/bell pepper, cooked onion and bacon, 1 cup of cheese, and flour. Stir to combine.
      • Add the eggs, milk, remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper, and stir until well combined.
   2. Bake the Slice:
      • • Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and smooth the top.
      • Sprinkle the reserved ¼ cup of grated cheese over the top.
      • Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until cooked through and firm to the touch.

1. Serve:
   • Allow the slice to cool, then cut it into squares to serve.

Notes:

• • Flour Substitution:
    • • If you don’t have self-raising flour, use a mixture of plain/all-purpose flour and baking powder. The conversion is 1 cup of flour to 2 teaspoons of baking powder.

  • How to Store Zucchini and Bacon Slice:
    • Once the slice has cooled completely, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.

Tips for Making Zucchini and Bacon Slice:

• • Drain the Zucchini:
    • Don’t skip draining the moisture from the zucchini or you’ll end up with a soggy slice. Grate the zucchini and carrot together and either pop them into a colander or use a clean kitchen towel to wring out the excess liquid.
  • Add Extra Vegetables:
    • • Feel free to add whatever vegetables you have on hand. Mushrooms or corn would work great!

  • Ham Substitution:
    • You can use ham instead of bacon in this slice. Skip the frying step and add the ham and onion directly into the bowl with the other ingredients.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

1. 1. Can I make this slice gluten-free?
      • Yes, you can substitute the self-raising flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just add 2 teaspoons of baking powder to the gluten-free flour.
   2. How do I prevent the slice from becoming soggy?
      • • Ensure you thoroughly drain the grated zucchini and carrot by squeezing out as much moisture as possible. This step is crucial for avoiding a soggy slice.

   3. Can I use other types of cheese?
      • Absolutely! You can substitute cheddar with other cheeses like mozzarella, gouda, or a mix of your favorite cheeses.

1. 1. Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?
      • Yes, you can prepare the mixture ahead of time, store it in the refrigerator, and then bake it when you’re ready. You can also bake the slice and store it for later as it reheats well.
   2. What other vegetables can I add?
      • • You can add mushrooms, corn, spinach, or even grated sweet potato. Feel free to experiment with your favorite vegetables.

   3. Can I freeze the baked slice?
      • Yes, the baked slice freezes well. After cooling, cut it into squares, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, and then transfer to a ziplock bag for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat before serving.

1. 1. What can I serve with this slice?
      • This slice is versatile and pairs well with a side salad, steamed vegetables, or even a cup of soup for a complete meal.
   2. How can I make this slice dairy-free?
      • • To make it dairy-free, substitute the cheddar cheese with a dairy-free cheese alternative and use a plant-based milk like almond or soy milk.

   3. Can I use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon?
      • Yes, turkey bacon can be used as a leaner alternative to regular bacon. Follow the same cooking instructions.

1. How do I reheat the slice?
   • Reheat the slice in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also microwave individual slices for 1-2 minutes.

Enjoy making and eating this versatile and delicious Zucchini and Bacon Slice!