Zucchini, mushroom, and cherry tomato pie

Zucchini, mushroom, and cherry tomato pie: A summer recipe full of freshness

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 55-60 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 20 minutes
Number of servings: 8

Welcome to the world of culinary delights! Today, I invite you to explore a savory pie recipe, perfect for warm summer days or any occasion when you want to bring a touch of freshness to your plate. This zucchini, mushroom, and cherry tomato pie is not only easy to prepare but also extremely delicious. Plus, you'll find that it's a healthy option, packed with vitamins and nutrients, ideal for the whole family.

A bit of history
Pie is a traditional dish in many cultures, with various variations and fillings. Over time, it has been adapted according to the season and available ingredients, and the combination of fresh vegetables we will use today perfectly reflects these traditions. Zucchini, mushrooms, and cherry tomatoes are very popular ingredients, each with its own nutritional benefits.

Necessary ingredients
- 3 eggs
- 3 medium zucchinis (about 400 g)
- 2 large carrots
- 150 g flour
- 50 ml extra virgin olive oil
- 70 g grated Parmesan
- 100 g grated cheese
- 1 jar of mushrooms (about 400 g)
- 200 g cherry tomatoes
- 1 bunch of fresh parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste

Ingredient details
- Zucchini: Choose fresh zucchinis with smooth skin and no spots. They are an excellent source of vitamins B, C, and minerals.
- Mushrooms: If you have fresh mushrooms on hand, use them instead of canned ones for a more intense flavor.
- Cherry tomatoes: Sweet and juicy, they add a wonderful flavor and a splash of color to the pie.
- Olive oil: Opt for extra virgin olive oil, as it has a richer taste and superior nutritional benefits.

Preparing the pie
Step 1: Preparing the ingredients
Preheat the oven to 180°C. Start by peeling the zucchinis and carrots, then grate them on a fine grater. It is important to squeeze the zucchinis to remove excess water, so the pie doesn't become soggy.

Step 2: Mixing the ingredients
In a large bowl, add the grated zucchinis and carrots, chopped mushrooms, finely chopped parsley, and grated Parmesan. Mix the ingredients well. Here, you can adjust the amount of salt and pepper according to your personal taste.

Step 3: Preparing the egg mixture
In another bowl, beat the eggs together with a pinch of salt and the olive oil. This combination will add moisture and bind all the ingredients together.

Step 4: Combining the ingredients
Pour the egg mixture over the vegetable composition and mix well. Then, add the grated cheese and sifted flour. Mix until all the ingredients are well combined.

Step 5: Baking the pie
Prepare a baking tray (about 30x20 cm) lined with parchment paper. Pour the mixture into the tray and level the surface. Place the cherry tomatoes on top, cut in half, for an attractive appearance.

Step 6: Baking
Place the tray in the preheated oven and bake for 55-60 minutes, or until the pie is golden and well browned. A useful trick is to check if it's baked by using a toothpick: it should come out clean when inserted in the center.

Step 7: Serving
Let the pie cool slightly before cutting it into slices. You can serve it warm or at room temperature, alongside a fresh salad or a yogurt sauce with dill. This adds a pleasant contrast and a touch of freshness.

Delicious variations
To customize this recipe, you can add other vegetables, such as bell peppers or spinach. Also, if you want to make it spicier, try adding a bit of chili pepper or spices like chili powder or paprika.

Nutritional benefits
This pie is an excellent option for a healthy meal. Zucchini are low in calories and high in fiber, making them ideal for digestion. Carrots provide a significant amount of beta-carotene and vitamins. Mushrooms are a good source of plant protein, and cheeses provide calcium.

Frequently asked questions
1. Can I use other types of cheese?
Yes, you can substitute Parmesan and cheese with mozzarella or feta cheese for a different flavor.

2. Can I freeze the pie?
Yes, the pie can be frozen after it has completely cooled. Make sure to wrap it well in aluminum foil or plastic wrap.

3. How can I make the pie less soggy?
Make sure to squeeze the zucchinis well, and if you use fresh mushrooms, you can sauté them a bit before adding them to the mixture.

Serving suggestions
Serve the pie with a salad of arugula and cherry tomatoes for a light lunch, or pair it with a glass of dry, refreshing white wine that will perfectly complement the flavors of the dish.

This zucchini, mushroom, and cherry tomato pie recipe is not just a culinary delight but also an opportunity to bring family and friends together. So, don't hesitate! Grab the ingredients, follow these simple steps, and enjoy a meal full of flavor and color! Bon appétit!