Description
Zucchini and Bacon Slice is a savory Australian classic, perfect for a nutritious breakfast, lunch box snack, or light dinner. Grated zucchini and carrot, diced bacon, onion, and capsicum are bound with eggs, cheese, and flour, then baked to golden perfection. This versatile dish is a delicious way to enjoy vegetables, offering a hearty, cheesy flavor with a tender texture and a hint of smokiness from the bacon.
Ingredients
- 2 zucchini, grated
- 1 carrot, grated
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 1 brown or yellow onion, diced
- 2 bacon slices or rashers, diced
- 1/2 red capsicum (bell pepper), diced
- 5 eggs, lightly whisked
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 cup self-raising flour
- 1 1/4 cups grated cheddar cheese, divided
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F). Line a 9×9 inch (23×23 cm) baking dish with baking paper.
- Place grated zucchini and carrot in a colander, sprinkle with salt, and let sit for 10 minutes.
- Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Add onion and bacon; cook until golden, then remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- Squeeze excess moisture from the zucchini and carrot using your hands. Transfer to a large mixing bowl.
- Add capsicum, cooked onion and bacon, 1 cup cheese, and self-raising flour to the bowl; stir to combine.
- Add eggs, milk, remaining oil, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and smooth the top. Sprinkle the remaining 1/4 cup cheese over the top.
- Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until cooked through and firm to touch.
- Allow to cool in the dish, then cut into squares to serve.
Notes
You can substitute bacon with ham or chopped cooked chicken for a different flavor, or use vegetarian bacon for a meat-free version. Swap cheddar for mozzarella or add herbs like parsley. Make ahead: Bake, cool, and refrigerate for up to 4 days, or freeze in airtight containers for 2 months. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave. Avoid over-mixing for a tender crumb; squeeze vegetables well to prevent sogginess. If the slice is too wet, bake slightly longer.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Australian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (approx. 150g)
- Calories: 235
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 13g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 140mg