Looking for a quick, easy, and guilt-free snack or appetizer? These Keto Zucchini Pizza Bites are the perfect solution! They are incredibly simple to make, require minimal ingredients, and are both low-carb and keto-friendly. Whether you're following a ketogenic diet or simply looking for a healthier alternative to traditional pizza, these zucchini bites are sure to satisfy your cravings.
Why You'll Love These Zucchini Pizza Bites
- Quick and Easy: These bites can be ready in about 15 minutes, making them perfect for a quick snack or last-minute appetizer.
- Healthy: Made with zucchini, these bites are low in carbs and keto-friendly. Zucchini is a versatile vegetable (technically a fruit!) with practically zero calories, making this a treat you can enjoy without guilt.
- Delicious: Topped with marinara sauce, cheese, and your favorite pizza toppings, these bites are bursting with flavor.
- Crowd-Pleaser: These are a hit at parties and gatherings.
Ingredients You'll Need
- Zucchini: Choose firm zucchinis. Don't peel them, as the skin helps the bites hold their shape.
- Marinara Sauce: Use your favorite homemade or store-bought marinara sauce or pizza sauce. Look for low or no-sugar brands to keep it keto-friendly. Ketchup can also be used in place of pizza sauce.
- Cheese: Shredded mozzarella cheese is a classic choice, but any cheese that melts well, such as Gouda or parmesan, will work.
- Toppings: Get creative with your favorite pizza toppings! Pepperoni slices, Kalamata olives, and Italian seasoning are great options. Consider using mini pepperonis or cutting larger ones into smaller pieces.
- Seasoning: Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes add extra flavor. Adjust the amount to your taste. Salt and pepper can be used to season the zucchini slices.
Two Ways to Cook Your Zucchini Pizza Bites
You can cook these zucchini pizza bites in either an air fryer or an oven. Here's how:
Air Fryer Instructions
- Start assembling the bites: Spread about a teaspoon of marinara sauce over each zucchini slice. Top with a few pepperoni slices and a couple of black olives.
- Finish assembling: Place the zucchini slices in the basket of your air fryer and top them with cheese. Season with some Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes.
- Cook and serve: Turn your air fryer on to 400°F and cook the zucchini pizza bites for 5 minutes or until the cheese has melted. Serve immediately. Preheating the air fryer is optional.
Oven Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Start assembling the bites: Spread about a teaspoon of marinara sauce (or a few drops of ketchup) over each zucchini slice. Top with a few pepperoni slices and a couple of black olives.
- Finish assembling: Place the zucchini slices on the baking sheet and top them with cheese. Season with some Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes.
- Bake and serve: Bake the zucchini pizza bites for 8 minutes and then broil them for an additional 3-4 minutes or until golden brown.
Tips for the Best Zucchini Pizza Bites
- Don't peel the zucchini: The skin helps the zucchini slices hold their shape during cooking.
- Remove excess moisture: If using grated zucchini, squeeze out as much moisture as possible using a cheesecloth or paper towels.
- Customize your toppings: Use your favorite pizza toppings to create your perfect bite. Consider options like taco meat, Italian sausage, jalapenos, green chiles, or salsa.
- Serve immediately: Zucchini pizza bites are best served hot and fresh.
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Variations and Serving Suggestions
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Add some greens: Top with fresh basil or spinach after cooking.
- Make it a meal: Serve with a side salad for a light and healthy lunch.
- Dipping sauce: Serve with your favorite keto-friendly dipping sauce, such as marinara sauce or a creamy dip.
Perfect for Various Diets
These zucchini pizza bites are versatile and can be adapted to fit various dietary needs:
- Keto: By using low-carb marinara sauce and toppings, these bites are perfect for a ketogenic diet.
- Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free.
- Vegetarian: Omit the pepperoni and use vegetarian toppings.
- Meatless Monday: A great option for a meat-free meal.
Nutritional Information
(Note: Nutritional information is auto-calculated and may vary based on specific ingredients and serving sizes.)
A plate of these keto zucchini pizza bites can be as low as 2g net carbs, making them a guilt-free indulgence.
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