This Easy Zucchini Onion Pie is a tasty twist on summer flavors! It features fresh zucchini and sweet onions baked together in a flaky crust. Perfect for lunch or dinner!
You’ll love how quick and simple it is to whip up. This pie always has my friends asking for the recipe. Plus, it uses up all that zucchini from the garden—yay for summer veggies!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: Fresh zucchini is key for this pie, providing a mild flavor and great texture. If you’re out of zucchini, yellow squash works well too!
Onion: Sweet onions like Vidalia are the best choice as they caramelize nicely. You can also use yellow or even red onions for a different bite.
Olive Oil: This is used for sautéing but feel free to swap it for butter if you prefer a richer flavor.
Cheese: I love using a mix of cheddar and mozzarella for balanced flavor. If you’re dairy-free, try a plant-based cheese alternative.
Eggs and Milk: These give the pie structure. If you need a vegan option, consider using a flaxseed mixture or silken tofu blended with a bit of water.
How Do I Get a Creamy Filling Without Overcooking?
The key to a creamy filling lies in not overcooking the zucchini and onion before baking. Sauté them just enough to soften. This prevents them from releasing too much moisture in the pie. Here are some steps to follow:
- Cook onions until translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add zucchini and cook just until tender, about 5-7 minutes. Season lightly.
- Let the mixture cool before adding it to the pie crust. This keeps it from cooking the eggs too quickly.
By following these steps, you’ll have a deliciously creamy filling that everyone will love!
Easy Zucchini Onion Pie
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Filling:
- 2 medium zucchinis, thinly sliced
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or oregano (optional)
- 1 cup shredded cheese (such as cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend)
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 cup milk or cream
For the Crust:
- 1 ready-made pie crust (9-inch), or homemade pie dough
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Easy Zucchini Onion Pie takes about 15 minutes to prep and 35-40 minutes to bake, so total time is about 1 hour. After baking, let it cool for 10 minutes before serving. It’s quick to make and perfect for a summer meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures the pie bakes evenly!
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are soft and translucent. Then, add the sliced zucchini and cook for another 5-7 minutes until the zucchini softens and most of the moisture has evaporated. Season with salt, pepper, and dried herbs if you like. Once done, remove the pan from heat and set it aside to cool slightly.
3. Prepare the Egg Mixture:
While the vegetables cool, take a medium bowl and whisk together the eggs and milk (or cream) until they are well combined. This will help make your filling creamy and delicious!
4. Assemble the Pie:
Next, place the pie crust into a 9-inch pie dish. Spread the zucchini and onion mixture evenly over the crust. Then, sprinkle the shredded cheese over the top of the vegetable mixture.
5. Add the Egg Mixture:
Pour the egg and milk mixture over the filling. Gently let it settle through the cheese and veggies, ensuring everything is nicely coated.
6. Bake the Pie:
Put the pie in the preheated oven and bake for about 35-40 minutes, or until the pie is set and the top is golden brown. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
7. Cool and Serve:
Once baked, take the pie out of the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes before slicing. This cooling time helps the pie set up and makes it easier to cut.
Now you’re ready to slice up your Easy Zucchini Onion Pie and enjoy! It’s a light and flavorful dish that’s perfect for summer meals. Enjoy with friends and family!
FAQ for Easy Zucchini Onion Pie
Can I Use Different Vegetables in This Pie?
Absolutely! While zucchini and onions are great, you can also add other veggies like bell peppers, spinach, or even mushrooms. Just be sure to adjust cooking times as needed based on the moisture and cooking requirements of the vegetables you choose.
How Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
To make this pie gluten-free, simply use a gluten-free pie crust. There are many great pre-made options available, or you can make your own using gluten-free flour blends.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or use a microwave for quick reheating.
Can I Make This Pie Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the filling and assemble the pie a day in advance. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. Bake it fresh on the day you plan to serve it for the best texture and flavor.
