Zucchini Pizzettes with Mozzarella and Grilled Veggies

Summer Zucchini Pizzettes – A Perfect Summer Appetizer

These Summer Zucchini Pizzettes offer a delightful combination of fresh vegetables, aromatic herbs, and melted cheese, making them an ideal appetizer to serve at any gathering. Packed with flavors and textures, these mini zucchini pizzas are perfect for those looking for a lighter, vegetable-based snack. Whether you’re hosting a party, preparing for a casual meal, or simply craving something delicious, this recipe will surely impress your guests and satisfy your taste buds.

Ingredients

Instructions

1. Prepare the Zucchini Base:
   Start by thoroughly washing and trimming the ends of the zucchinis. Grate them finely using a large-holed grater, then transfer the grated zucchini into a bowl. Add 1 egg to the grated zucchini and season generously with fine salt and freshly ground black pepper. Mix everything together until well combined.

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2. Shape and Cook the Pizzettes:
   Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) on the static setting. On a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, lightly grease it with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil. Using your hands, shape the zucchini mixture into small, round patties, about 12-15 cm in diameter. Press them gently to flatten. You should be able to make 9 zucchinette with the ingredients provided. Place them on the prepared baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for around 8 minutes or until they are slightly golden.

3. Prepare the Toppings:
   While the zucchinis are baking, it’s time to prepare the toppings. In a bowl, pour the tomato sauce and season it with a pinch of salt and a drizzle of olive oil. Set aside.

   Slice the yellow bell pepper into thin strips after removing the seeds and internal membranes. Grill the pepper strips on a hot grill or griddle pan until slightly charred and softened.

4. Prepare the Cheese and Vegetables:
   Cut the mozzarella into small pieces. Wash the cherry tomatoes and slice them into wedges. Thinly slice the red onion. Finally, slice the smoked scamorza cheese into very thin slices.

5. Assemble the Pizzettes:
   Once the zucchini bases are cooked, remove them from the oven. Now, it’s time to add the toppings.

   • First batch: Spread a thin layer of tomato sauce on 3 of the zucchinette.
   • Second batch: On the next 3, layer tomato sauce, mozzarella, and cherry tomato wedges.
   • Third batch: On the remaining 3 zucchinette, top them with smoked scamorza slices, red onion, and Taggiasca olives.

6. Final Touches:
   Season everything with a bit more salt and pepper. Sprinkle fresh basil leaves over the top and drizzle a little extra virgin olive oil for added flavor. Place the assembled zucchinette back in the oven and bake for an additional 3-5 minutes, or until the cheese has melted and the toppings are nicely roasted.

7. Serve and Enjoy:
   Once your zucchini pizzettes are ready, remove them from the oven and allow them to cool slightly before serving. These mini vegetable pizzas are best enjoyed warm, either as a party appetizer or a tasty snack.

Tips for Perfect Zucchini Pizzettes

• Grating the Zucchini: To avoid excess water from the zucchini, you can place the grated zucchini in a clean kitchen towel and gently squeeze out the liquid before mixing it with the egg and starch. This helps achieve a crispier base.
• Topping Variations: Feel free to get creative with the toppings! You can add other vegetables like grilled mushrooms, arugula, or olives, or even a sprinkle of chili flakes for a spicy kick.
• Make It Gluten-Free: For a gluten-free version, simply substitute the potato starch with a gluten-free flour mix.
• Baking Tip: If you prefer a crispier base, you can bake the zucchinette a little longer or even pan-fry them before adding the toppings.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

These Summer Zucchini Pizzettes are a flavorful, low-calorie option for anyone looking for a healthy appetizer that’s both satisfying and nutritious. Whether you’re hosting a summer gathering or craving a light, savory bite, these zucchinette are sure to impress.

Enjoy the fresh flavors of summer with every bite!

This recipe can easily be doubled or tripled for larger gatherings, and leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven for a few minutes to restore their crispness!