Description
Scrumptious zucchini pizza bites offer a clever low-carb alternative to traditional pizza. Crisp zucchini rounds topped with marinara, melted cheese, and pepperoni create an irresistible appetizer you’ll crave again and again.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 large zucchini
- ½ cup (120 ml) cherry tomatoes
- ⅓ cup (80 ml) mozzarella cheese (dairy-free if desired)
- ½ cup (120 ml) marinara sauce
- 2 tbsps (30 ml) chopped parsley
- 2 tbsps (30 ml) olive oil
Instructions
- Preparation: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper for effortless cleanup and non-stick cooking.
- Zucchini Preparation: Slice zucchini into uniform 1/4-inch rounds, ensuring consistent thickness for even roasting and optimal texture.
- Initial Roasting: Arrange zucchini rounds on prepared baking sheet, lightly brush with extra virgin olive oil, and season with kosher salt and black pepper; roast for 5-6 minutes to eliminate excess moisture.
- Tomato Enhancement: Simultaneously sauté cherry tomatoes in a skillet over medium heat until softened and releasing natural juices for added depth of flavor.
- Topping Assembly: Remove zucchini from oven, spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on each round, then generously sprinkle with mozzarella or parmesan cheese; top with sautéed cherry tomatoes.
- Final Baking: Return zucchini bites to oven and bake for 12-15 minutes until cheese melts completely and edges turn golden brown, creating a crispy and appetizing finish.
- Serving: Allow bites to cool for 2-3 minutes, garnish with fresh parsley or basil leaves for a vibrant herbal touch, and serve immediately as a delightful appetizer or light snack.
Notes
- Choose Fresh Zucchini: Select firm, medium-sized zucchini without soft spots or blemishes for the best texture and flavor.
- Moisture Management: Pat zucchini rounds dry with paper towels before roasting to prevent soggy pizza bites and ensure crisp edges.
- Cheese Selection: Use freshly grated cheese for better melting and more intense flavor compared to pre-shredded varieties.
- Serve Immediately: Enjoy these pizza bites hot from the oven for maximum crispiness and melted cheese appeal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Snacks
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 5
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 300 mg
- Fat: 10 g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 10 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg