Zucchini scarpaccia is a delicious and easy-to-make Italian flatbread that’s perfect for a gluten-free diet. This savory bread is made with a simple mixture of grated zucchini, olive oil, flour, and herbs, and it’s baked until golden brown and crispy. The best part? It’s incredibly versatile!
What is Zucchini Scarpaccia?
Zucchini scarpaccia is a traditional Tuscan dish that’s essentially a thin, crispy flatbread made with grated zucchini, olive oil, and flour. It’s a very simple dish to prepare, and it can be served as an appetizer, side dish, or even a light lunch. The name “scarpaccia” comes from the Italian word for “slap,” which is a reference to the way the batter is slapped onto the baking sheet.
Is Zucchini Scarpaccia Gluten-Free?
The traditional recipe for zucchini scarpaccia typically calls for all-purpose flour, which contains gluten. However, it’s incredibly easy to make this dish gluten-free by simply substituting your preferred gluten-free flour blend.
Choosing the Right Gluten-Free Flour Blend
There are many different gluten-free flour blends available on the market, so it’s important to choose one that will give you the desired results.
“When choosing a gluten-free flour blend for zucchini scarpaccia, you’ll want to look for one that’s primarily made from rice flour or tapioca flour,” says Chef Amelia Rose, a renowned gluten-free culinary expert. “These flours will help give the bread a light and crispy texture, which is essential for this dish.”
How to Make Gluten-Free Zucchini Scarpaccia
Ingredients:
- 1 medium zucchini, grated
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 cup gluten-free flour blend
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C).
- In a large bowl, combine the grated zucchini, olive oil, gluten-free flour blend, salt, pepper, and oregano.
- Stir until well combined.
- If desired, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese.
- Spread the batter evenly onto a lightly greased baking sheet.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
Tips for Making the Best Gluten-Free Zucchini Scarpaccia
- Don’t overcook the zucchini: The zucchini should be grated, not chopped. This will help ensure that the bread is light and airy.
- Use high-quality olive oil: The olive oil is an important part of the flavor of the zucchini scarpaccia, so use a good quality olive oil.
- Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet: If you’re making a large batch, you may need to use two baking sheets to ensure that the scarpaccia bakes evenly.
- Serve hot: Zucchini scarpaccia is best served hot and fresh.
What to Serve with Gluten-Free Zucchini Scarpaccia
- Salads: A simple salad of tomatoes, cucumbers, and feta cheese is a great way to accompany this savory bread.
- Dips: Hummus, baba ghanoush, or a pesto sauce are all delicious options for dipping zucchini scarpaccia.
- Roasted vegetables: Roasted peppers, onions, or eggplant are delicious alongside this bread.
- Soup: Serve the scarpaccia alongside a light and refreshing soup, such as tomato soup or lentil soup.
FAQs About Zucchini Scarpaccia
Q: Can I freeze zucchini scarpaccia?
A: Yes, you can freeze zucchini scarpaccia. Simply wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw the bread overnight in the refrigerator and then bake at 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) for 10-15 minutes.
Q: What other gluten-free flours can I use?
A: You can use other gluten-free flours, such as almond flour, coconut flour, or oat flour. However, you may need to adjust the amount of liquid in the recipe.
Q: Can I make zucchini scarpaccia ahead of time?
A: You can make the dough ahead of time, cover it with plastic wrap, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, simply remove the dough from the refrigerator and let it come to room temperature before spreading it onto the baking sheet.
Q: How do I know if zucchini scarpaccia is done baking?
A: The zucchini scarpaccia is done baking when it is golden brown and crispy. You can also test the bread by pressing on it lightly with your finger; it should spring back.
Enjoying Gluten-Free Zucchini Scarpaccia
Zucchini scarpaccia is a healthy and flavorful dish that is easy to make and even easier to enjoy. It’s a great option for a quick and easy meal or snack, and it’s also perfect for a gluten-free diet. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your gluten-free repertoire.