Create satisfying, low-carb pizza bites using fresh zucchini as the base. These crispy, cheesy appetizers satisfy pizza cravings and are perfect for quick snacks or party food.
Author:Cat
Prep Time:15 min
Cook Time:20 min
Total Time:35 min
Yield:24 bites 1x
Category:Appetizer
Method:Baking/Air Frying
Cuisine:American
Diet:Low Fat
Ingredients
Scale
2 medium zucchini
1 large egg, lightly beaten
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup pizza sauce or marinara
1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and black pepper to taste
Optional toppings: pepperoni slices, fresh basil
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. If using an air fryer, preheat it to 375°F (190°C).
Wash the zucchini and slice them into rounds about 1/4 to 1/3 inch thick. You need about 24 slices.
Place the zucchini slices on a clean kitchen towel or several layers of paper towels. Sprinkle lightly with salt. Let them sit for 10 minutes to draw out excess moisture. Gently press down on the slices to absorb the liquid. This step is key for crispy bites.
In a medium bowl, combine the beaten egg, half of the Parmesan cheese, oregano, and garlic powder. Mix well.
Add the dried zucchini slices to the egg mixture and toss gently to coat them evenly.
Arrange the coated zucchini slices in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
Bake in the oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges start to look slightly dry. If using the air fryer, cook in batches for 6-8 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
Remove the partially baked zucchini from the oven/air fryer. Top each slice with a small amount of pizza sauce, followed by mozzarella cheese and the remaining Parmesan cheese. Add optional toppings like pepperoni now.
Return the bites to the oven or air fryer. Bake for another 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden brown.
Remove from the heat. Let them cool for a minute before serving immediately.
Notes
For the crispiest base, do not skip the step of salting and pressing the moisture out of the zucchini.
If you are making these in the air fryer, work in batches to avoid overcrowding the basket; this ensures even crisping.
Pair these low-carb zucchini pizza bites with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc to complement the acidity of the tomato sauce.