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Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat and Prepare the Crust:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- If you’re using store-bought pie crust, fit it into a 9-inch pie dish and set it aside. If you’re making your own pie dough, roll it out to fit the pie dish, then press it into place.
- Par-bake the crust for about 8-10 minutes until it starts to turn golden. This step helps prevent the crust from getting soggy later. Remove from the oven and set aside to cool slightly.
2. Prepare the Zucchini:
- Grate the zucchini using a box grater or food processor. After grating, squeeze out excess moisture by placing the zucchini in a clean dish towel or cheesecloth and pressing down. This step is important to avoid a watery filling.
3. Sauté the Onions:
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil or butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, for 8-10 minutes until the onions become soft and slightly caramelized. This adds a rich, sweet flavor to the pie.
- Once done, remove from heat and set aside.
4. Make the Filling:
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, sour cream, and mayonnaise (if using). Add the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper, and whisk until smooth.
- Stir in the shredded cheese, and then add the grated zucchini and caramelized onions. Mix everything together until well combined. If you’re adding fresh herbs or other optional ingredients, stir them in now.
5. Assemble the Pie:
- Pour the zucchini and onion mixture into the pre-baked pie crust, spreading it out evenly.
- If desired, sprinkle the top with grated Parmesan cheese for a golden, cheesy crust.
- Bake the pie in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes or until the filling is set and the top is golden brown. You can test it by inserting a knife into the center; it should come out clean when the pie is done.
6. Let It Rest and Serve:
- Once baked, remove the pie from the oven and let it cool for about 5-10 minutes before slicing. This allows the filling to set properly, making it easier to slice.
- Serve the pie warm or at room temperature. It pairs beautifully with a simple side salad or roasted vegetables.
Tips for the Perfect Zucchini Onion Pie
- Squeeze the Zucchini: Be sure to drain the zucchini well to avoid excess moisture that can make the filling soggy.
- Customize the Cheese: Try different cheese combinations for extra flavor. Sharp cheddar adds a nice tang, while mozzarella makes it extra creamy.
- Make It a Meal: If you want to turn this pie into a more substantial meal, consider adding cooked bacon or sausage to the filling.
- Herb Variations: Fresh herbs like basil, oregano, or thyme can elevate the flavor and give the pie a fresh, aromatic touch.
- Freezing: This pie freezes well. You can make it ahead of time, bake it, then freeze it for later use. Just allow it to cool completely before freezing, and reheat in the oven when you’re ready to enjoy it.
Why You Should Try Zucchini Onion Pie
This Zucchini Onion Pie is a flavorful and versatile dish that’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion. With the mild, slightly sweet flavor of zucchini, the richness of caramelized onions, and the creamy texture of the filling, this pie is a savory treat everyone will love.
It’s a great way to use up fresh zucchini from your garden or farmers’ market, and it makes for an excellent brunch item, dinner side, or even a light lunch. With its combination of flavors and textures, it’s the kind of dish that feels both comforting and elevated, making it a perfect addition to your recipe repertoire.
Final Thoughts
If you’re a fan of savory pies and love the delicate flavors of zucchini and onion, then this Zucchini Onion Pie is the recipe you’ve been waiting for. It’s easy to prepare, full of flavor, and offers a satisfying, comforting dish that can be enjoyed any time of the year. Whether you’re serving it as a main or a side, this pie is bound to become a favorite in your household!
Pro Tip: To make this pie even more decadent, add a dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of hot sauce on top when serving for an extra burst of flavor!
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