Scarpaccia (Italian Zucchini Tart)

If you’ve never tasted Scarpaccia, get ready to fall in love with this beautiful, savory Italian tart. It’s simple yet bursting with flavors, and it’s the kind of dish that’ll make your taste buds dance with joy. Imagine golden, tender zucchini, fresh herbs, and a slightly crispy, savory crust that all come together in one irresistible bite. Scarpaccia is the kind of dish you’d enjoy on a leisurely afternoon, paired with a glass of wine or served as a stunning centerpiece for dinner. Whether you’re a fan of zucchini or just looking for something a little different, this Italian classic will have you craving seconds. Trust me, you won’t want to miss out on this one!

Why You’ll Love Scarpaccia (Italian Zucchini Tart)

• Flavorful and Savory: With the zucchini cooked until tender and slightly caramelized, the natural sweetness of the vegetable comes out, making every bite delicious and satisfying.
• Simple to Make: No complicated steps here! It’s a straightforward dish that doesn’t require any advanced skills, yet it’s impressive enough to serve guests.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual family dinner, a special gathering, or a picnic, Scarpaccia fits every situation. It’s versatile, filling, and easy to share.
• Healthy Twist: Made with fresh veggies and simple ingredients, this tart is a lighter alternative to heavier pastries or quiches, so you can indulge without the guilt.
• Customizable: You can easily adjust this recipe by adding herbs, cheeses, or even a sprinkle of chili flakes for some heat.

Ingredients

Here’s what you need to make Scarpaccia (Italian Zucchini Tart):

Main Ingredients:

• Zucchini: The star of the dish, sliced thinly and arranged beautifully on the crust.
• Olive Oil: To sauté the zucchini and give the tart its rich flavor.
• Onion: For an aromatic base to pair perfectly with the zucchini.
• Garlic: Adds depth and richness to the tart.
• Eggs: To bind the filling together and add richness.
• Parmesan Cheese: For a salty, umami-packed flavor.
• All-Purpose Flour: To make the base of the tart. This will give the dish its perfect structure.
• Herbs: Fresh basil or thyme work wonderfully, but you can experiment with whatever herbs you prefer.
• Salt and Pepper: To taste.

(Note: The full ingredient list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Now, let’s get to the fun part! Here’s how you make this delicious Scarpaccia:

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add the garlic and sauté for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add the sliced zucchini and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they soften and begin to caramelize. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 2: Prepare the Tart Base

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the eggs, flour, parmesan cheese, and a pinch of salt and pepper. The mixture should be slightly thick but pourable.
3. Grease a tart pan or pie dish with olive oil or butter.

Step 3: Assemble the Scarpaccia

1. Pour the egg and flour mixture into the prepared tart pan, spreading it out evenly.
2. Arrange the sautéed zucchini mixture over the top in a neat, overlapping pattern.
3. Sprinkle the top with a little more parmesan cheese and fresh herbs (like thyme or basil) for extra flavor.

Step 4: Bake the Tart

1. Place the tart in the preheated oven and bake for about 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden and set.
2. Once done, remove from the oven and let it cool for 5-10 minutes before slicing.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

1. Slice your Scarpaccia and serve warm. It’s perfect as a light meal or served as an appetizer or side dish.

How to Serve Scarpaccia

• As a Light Lunch or Dinner: Serve it as a standalone dish with a light salad or a side of roasted vegetables.
• Perfect for Appetizers: Cut it into small pieces for a delicious appetizer at your next gathering.
• Pair with Wine: A light white wine or a refreshing sparkling wine would pair wonderfully with the savory flavors of the tart.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 6
Calories per serving: 200
Total Fat: 12g

• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Trans Fat: 0g
  Cholesterol: 80mg
  Sodium: 250mg
  Total Carbohydrates: 16g
• Dietary Fiber: 2g
• Sugars: 4g
  Protein: 8g
  Vitamin A: 15%
  Vitamin C: 30%
  Calcium: 20%
  Iron: 6%

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes

Additional Tips

• Herbs and Cheese: Feel free to experiment with different herbs or cheeses. Feta, ricotta, or even goat cheese can make a wonderful addition to this tart.
• Make Ahead: You can prep the zucchini and egg mixture ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Simply bake when you’re ready to serve.
• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use a different vegetable instead of zucchini?
A1: Yes! You can try using other vegetables like eggplant, bell peppers, or even tomatoes for a different twist on this dish.

Q2: Can I make this gluten-free?
A2: Absolutely! Substitute the flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make this dish gluten-free.

Q3: Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
A3: Yes! You can prepare the zucchini mixture and the egg mixture ahead of time. Just assemble and bake the tart when you’re ready to serve.

Q4: How do I store leftovers?
A4: Store leftover Scarpaccia in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat it in the oven for the best results.

Q5: Can I freeze this tart?
A5: Yes! Once baked, you can freeze Scarpaccia for up to 3 months. Allow it to cool completely before wrapping it tightly and placing it in the freezer. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.

Q6: Can I make this dish without cheese?
A6: Yes! You can skip the cheese or use a dairy-free alternative for a vegan version.

Q7: Can I add meat to this dish?
A7: Absolutely! Adding cooked chicken, bacon, or sausage would add a delicious protein boost to this dish.

Q8: Is Scarpaccia served hot or cold?
A8: Scarpaccia is typically served warm, but it’s also delicious at room temperature, making it perfect for picnics or potlucks.

Q9: How can I make the crust more crispy?
A9: To make the crust extra crispy, you can brush it with a little olive oil or butter before baking. You can also pre-bake the crust for 5 minutes before adding the filling.

Q10: Can I make individual servings?
A10: Yes! You can make mini Scarpaccia tarts by using individual tart pans or a muffin tin for single servings.

Conclusion

Scarpaccia (Italian Zucchini Tart) is a savory, flavorful dish that brings the best of Italian cooking As an Amazon Associate, we earn a small commission from qualifying purchases made through our affiliate links, at no extra cost to you. Our recommendations are always honest and unbiased. Thank you for your support! to your table. With its fresh zucchini, delicate flavors, and golden crust, it’s perfect for any meal—whether you’re entertaining or simply enjoying a quiet dinner at home. This dish is easy to make, customizable, and utterly delicious, making it a must-try for anyone who loves good food. So, go ahead—give this Italian classic a try and let it transport you to the heart of Tuscany!

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