Yields: 12 slices Prep time: 30 minutes Cook time: 40-45 minutes  

Ingredients:

• 2 large zucchinis, grated
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 6 eggs, beaten
• 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
• 1 cup self-raising flour
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• Optional: bacon, cooked and crumbled

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven: to 180°C (350°F). Grease and line a 9×13 inch baking pan.
2. Prepare vegetables: Grate the zucchini and squeeze out excess moisture. Sauté the onion until softened and set aside.
3. Combine ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, grated cheese, self-raising flour, milk, baking powder, salt, and pepper. Stir in the grated zucchini, cooked onion, and crumbled bacon (if using).
4. Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
5. Cool and serve: Let the zucchini slice cool completely before cutting into squares. Serve warm or cold.

Tips:

• For a richer flavor, use a combination of cheddar and Parmesan cheese.
• Add other vegetables like spinach or capsicum for extra nutrients.
• To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free self-raising flour.  
• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. 

Zucchini Slice Variations

The classic zucchini slice recipe is a versatile base that can be adapted to suit different tastes and dietary preferences. Here are some ideas to inspire your next creation:

Vegetarian and Vegan Options

• Omit the bacon: For a vegetarian version, simply skip the bacon.
• Add extra vegetables: Incorporate grated carrots, sweet potato, or spinach for added nutrients and flavor.
• Cheese alternatives: Experiment with different cheeses like feta, goat cheese, or vegan cheese alternatives.

Flavor Twists

• Mediterranean: Add sun-dried tomatoes, olives, and fresh basil for a Mediterranean twist.
• Spicy: Incorporate chili flakes, jalapeños, or a spicy cheese like pepper jack for some heat.
• Herbaceous: Enhance the flavor with fresh herbs like dill, parsley, or chives.

Dietary Considerations

• Gluten-free: Use gluten-free self-raising flour and check other ingredients for hidden gluten sources.
• Low-carb: Experiment with low-carb flour alternatives like almond or coconut flour, and adjust the recipe accordingly.

Presentation Ideas

• Individual servings: Bake the zucchini slice in muffin tins for single-serving portions.
• Savory loaf: Double the recipe and bake in a loaf pan for a larger version.
• Meal prep: Prepare a large batch of zucchini slice and slice it into individual portions for quick and easy lunches.

Mediterranean Zucchini Slice

• Replace cheddar cheese with feta or a combination of feta and Parmesan.
• Add sun-dried tomatoes, Kalamata olives, and fresh oregano for a burst of Mediterranean flavor.
• Drizzle with balsamic glaze before serving.

Spicy Zucchini Slice

• Use jalapeño peppers instead of regular peppers for a kick of heat.
• Incorporate a blend of cheddar and pepper Jack cheese for a spicy twist.
• Top with a dollop of Greek yogurt or sour cream for a cooling contrast.

Vegetarian Zucchini Slice

• Replace bacon with extra vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or roasted red peppers.
• Use a plant-based protein source like chickpeas or lentils for added substance.
• Experiment with different types of vegan cheese for a rich flavor.

Low-Carb Zucchini Slice

• Replace traditional flour with almond or coconut flour.
• Increase the amount of eggs and cheese to bind the mixture.
• Consider adding flaxseed meal for extra fiber and moisture.

This classic zucchini slice is a delicious and versatile dish that can be enjoyed as a breakfast, lunch, or snack. It’s a great way to incorporate extra vegetables into your diet and is perfect for meal prep.