Mediterranean Zucchini Pizza Bites
These zucchini pizza bites are a lighter, Mediterranean-inspired twist on classic pizza. Fresh zucchini rounds replace the crust, topped with olive oil, herbs, cheese, and optional toppings like cherry tomatoes or marinara. They’re quick to make, naturally low-carb, and perfect as an appetizer, snack, or even a fun veggie side dish.
Time
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10–12 minutes
Total Time: 20–22 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
Zucchini: 2 medium zucchini, sliced into ½-inch rounds
Olive Oil: 2 tbsp
Seasonings: 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp dried oregano or Italian herbs, sea salt & black pepper
Toppings (optional): Cherry tomato slices or marinara sauce
Cheese: Fresh mozzarella or crumbled feta
Garnish: Fresh basil
Instructions
Prep the zucchini: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Slice zucchini into ½-inch rounds and pat them dry with a paper towel.
Season the base: Arrange zucchini rounds on the baking sheet. Brush lightly with olive oil, then sprinkle with garlic powder, oregano, salt, and black pepper.
Add toppings: Spoon a little marinara on top of each round (if using), then add cherry tomato slices. Place a small piece of fresh mozzarella or a crumble of feta on each zucchini round.
Bake: Roast in the oven for 10–12 minutes, until the zucchini is tender but not mushy, and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Garnish and serve: Remove from the oven, top with fresh basil, and serve warm as a healthy snack or appetizer.
Tips
Uniform slices: Cut the zucchini rounds evenly (½-inch thick) so they cook at the same rate.
Pat dry: Zucchini releases water while baking. Drying slices with a paper towel before seasoning helps prevent sogginess.
Use a rack: For extra crispness, bake the rounds on a wire rack set over a sheet pan to let moisture drip away.
Cheese choice matters: Fresh mozzarella melts creamy, while feta adds a salty tang. You can even mix the two.
Don’t overload: Keep toppings light so the zucchini doesn’t collapse under the weight.
Variations
Mediterranean twist: Add olives, artichoke hearts, or roasted red peppers on top for extra flavor.
Protein boost: Top with cooked chicken pieces, turkey pepperoni, or chickpeas.
Spicy version: Sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes or drizzle a little harissa for heat.
No sauce: Skip the marinara and just use olive oil, herbs, and cheese for a fresher, lighter bite.
Grilled version: Instead of baking, grill the zucchini slices for a smoky flavor before adding toppings.
Vegan option: Use dairy-free mozzarella or cashew cheese and stick with veggie toppings.
Q&A
Q: Can I make these ahead of time?
A: They’re best served fresh, but you can slice the zucchini and prep toppings ahead of time. Assemble and bake just before serving for the best texture.
Q: How do I keep them from getting soggy?
A: Pat the zucchini slices dry before baking, and avoid adding too much sauce. Baking on a rack also helps keep them crisp.
Q: Can I air-fry these instead of baking?
A: Yes, air-fry at 375°F (190°C) for about 7–8 minutes until the zucchini is tender and the cheese is bubbly.
Q: Do I need to peel the zucchini?
A: No, the peel helps the slices hold shape and adds color and nutrients.
Q: What can I serve with these?
A: They make a great appetizer alongside hummus, pita bread, or a fresh salad.
Nutrition
(per serving, about 1/4 of recipe)
Calories: ~110
Protein: ~4g
Carbohydrates: ~6g
Fat: ~8g
Fiber: ~2g
Sodium: ~200mg
(Values will vary depending on cheese and toppings used.)
Conclusion
Mediterranean Zucchini Pizza Bites are a quick, healthy, and customizable snack or appetizer that bring big flavor in bite-sized form. With just a handful of ingredients, you get all the comfort of pizza in a lighter, veggie-forward version. Easy to adapt with different toppings and cheeses, they’re perfect for family gatherings, weeknight snacking, or adding a colorful starter to a Mediterranean-style spread.