Zucchini Slice

The Zucchini Slice is a true Aussie classic that’s as versatile as it is delicious. Packed with grated zucchini, crispy bacon, and gooey cheddar cheese, this savory bake is quick to prepare and even easier to love. Whether you’re looking for a hearty brunch, an easy weeknight dinner, or something that keeps well for lunches throughout the week, this slice fits the bill.

Best of all, it’s a great way to sneak more vegetables into your meals, perfect for picky eaters and adults alike. Serve it with a simple garden salad for a light meal, or enjoy a warm slice fresh out of the oven. It’s budget-friendly, easy to make in bulk, and incredibly satisfying with every bite.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

• 5 large eggs

• 1 cup self-rising flour

• 375g zucchini (approx. 2 medium), grated

• 1 onion, finely chopped

• 200g bacon, diced

• 1 cup cheddar cheese, grated

• 1/4 cup vegetable oil

• Salt and pepper, to taste

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a 9×13 inch (23×33 cm) baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it.

2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk the eggs until frothy.

3. Add the self-raising flour and whisk until smooth.

4. Stir in the grated zucchini, chopped onion, bacon, grated cheese, and oil. Season with salt and pepper.

5. Mix well until all ingredients are combined evenly.

6. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and smooth the surface with a spatula.

7. Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until golden brown on top and firm to the touch.

8. Allow to cool slightly before slicing into squares or bars. Serve warm or cold.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 40 minutes | Total Time: 50 minutes
Kcal: 265 kcal | Servings: 8 slices

The Ultimate Guide to Zucchini Slice: A Savory Aussie Classic That Everyone Loves

Zucchini Slice is a timeless staple in many Australian households. It’s beloved not just for its flavor and comforting texture but for how incredibly easy and versatile it is. Whether you’re packing lunchboxes, hosting brunch, or simply trying to clean out the fridge, this savory slice has a way of fitting into every situation effortlessly.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and adaptability. With a few pantry and fridge staples, zucchini, eggs, flour, bacon, and cheese, you can create a delicious, nutritious, and filling meal that satisfies on every level. It’s budget-friendly, perfect for meal prep, and works for just about every member of the family, from toddlers to grandparents.

In this article, we’ll explore the origins, variations, serving suggestions, health benefits, and tips to make your zucchini slice the absolute best it can be. Whether you’re a long-time fan or trying it for the first time, this guide will help you fall in love with this slice all over again.

A Slice of Australian Comfort Food

Though you’ll find similar savory bakes around the world, Zucchini Slice holds a special place in Australian culinary culture. It’s a fixture in school lunchboxes, picnic baskets, and casual brunches. Its popularity is tied to how accessible and forgiving it is to make. Even novice cooks can turn out a perfect slice on the first try.

While the exact origins of zucchini slice are hard to trace, its wide adoption across Australia speaks volumes. It’s a recipe that’s been passed around kitchen tables, handwritten on recipe cards, and adapted in countless ways across generations.

Why This Dish Works: Flavor Meets Functionality

Balanced Texture: What makes zucchini slice so appealing is the contrast in texture. The exterior bakes to a golden brown with just a touch of crispness, while the inside remains moist and fluffy, thanks to the grated zucchini and eggs. The cheese melts throughout, binding the ingredients together and adding a lovely gooey texture.

Umami Power: The bacon adds a hit of umami and saltiness that balances the natural sweetness of the zucchini. The cheddar cheese reinforces this savory profile while delivering richness and creaminess in every bite.

Customizable: It’s one of those “clean out the fridge” recipes, you can add other vegetables like corn, capsicum (bell peppers), or carrots, or swap the bacon for smoked salmon, cooked chicken, or even leave it out entirely for a vegetarian option.

Meal Prep Friendly: Zucchini slice stores well in the fridge for up to 4–5 days, and it even freezes well for up to 2 months. Just portion it, wrap it, and you’ve got a ready-made lunch or snack at your fingertips.

Ingredient Highlights and Alternatives

• Zucchini: The star of the show, zucchini adds moisture and a mild flavor that blends beautifully with stronger ingredients like onion and cheese. No need to peel, just grate and lightly squeeze out the excess moisture.

• Bacon: Adds savory depth. You can substitute with turkey bacon, ham, or plant-based bacon for dietary preferences.

• Onion: For extra flavor, finely chop the onion so it cooks evenly into the batter. Want a milder taste? Use spring onions or leeks.

• Cheese: Cheddar is classic, but feel free to experiment with feta, mozzarella, or a blend of hard cheeses for a flavor twist.

• Self-Rising Flour: Helps give the slice a light structure. You can substitute all-purpose flour with a bit of baking powder if needed.

• Eggs: They bind everything together and provide protein. Use fresh, large eggs for the best texture and lift.

Health Benefits of Zucchini Slice

At first glance, a dish with bacon and cheese might not scream “healthy,” but zucchini slice can be part of a balanced diet, especially with a few smart tweaks.

• High in Protein: Eggs and cheese provide a good protein source, helping to keep you full longer.

• Vegetable-Rich: Zucchini is low in calories but high in fiber, water, and important nutrients like Vitamin C, Vitamin A, and potassium.

• Great for Kids: It’s a brilliant way to sneak veggies into your family’s diet without complaints.

• Low Waste: You use the whole zucchini, skin and all. Plus, it helps reduce food waste by allowing flexible ingredients.

For a healthier version, consider reducing the amount of cheese or opting for low-fat varieties. You can also increase the ratio of vegetables to flour for a more nutrient-dense slice.

When and How to Serve Zucchini Slice

1. Brunch with Friends: Serve warm slices alongside a leafy salad, roasted cherry tomatoes, and avocado. Add a glass of sparkling water or mimosa, and you’ve got a relaxed yet elegant brunch spread.

2. Meal Prep Hero: Make a double batch on Sunday, and you’ll have lunches sorted for the week. Pair with some fresh fruit or a container of hummus for a complete meal.

3. Kids’ Lunchboxes: Zucchini slice holds up beautifully cold and is mess-free, making it ideal for school lunchboxes.

4. Picnic Essential: Cut into easy-to-hold squares and pack it with some crusty bread, olives, and grapes for the perfect outdoor meal.

5. Light Dinner: Pair with soup or a grain salad for a comforting, balanced dinner that doesn’t take hours to make.

Tips for the Perfect Zucchini Slice Every Time

• Don’t Overmix: Like with muffins or cakes, overmixing the batter can make the slice tough. Mix until just combined.

• Drain Excess Water from Zucchini: After grating, place the zucchini in a clean tea towel or paper towels and gently squeeze to remove excess moisture.

• Let It Rest Before Slicing: Give it at least 10–15 minutes to cool after baking. It makes for cleaner cuts and better texture.

• Use Baking Paper: Makes cleanup a breeze and helps the slice lift out easily from the pan.

• Batch Cook and Freeze: Once cooled, wrap individual portions and freeze them. Just reheat in the oven or microwave.

Pairing Ideas

While Zucchini Slice can stand alone, it pairs beautifully with:

• Garden salad with vinaigrette

• Greek-style yogurt with herbs

• Spiced sweet potato wedges

• Tomato chutney or relish

• A cup of soup (like tomato or pumpkin) in cooler months

Conclusion

Zucchini Slice is more than just a dish; it’s a culinary Swiss army knife. It’s affordable, quick, satisfying, and adaptable to whatever life throws your way (or whatever you find left in the fridge!).

Whether you’re cooking for picky eaters, prepping meals for a busy week, or bringing a dish to share with friends, this slice never fails to deliver. With endless ways to customize and a flavor that’s both familiar and comforting, Zucchini Slice earns its place as a true classic in modern kitchens.

So, if you haven’t made it yet or haven’t made it in a while, it’s time to bring this Aussie favorite back to your table. Your taste buds (and your time budget) will thank you.