Crispy Zucchini & Vegetable Phyllo Pie
Servings: 12 pieces
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 45–50 minutes
Ingredients
For the Filling
- 4 medium zucchini, grated
- 2 medium carrots, grated
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 green onions, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
- 2 tablespoons parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- 200 g (7 oz) feta cheese, crumbled
- 200 g (7 oz) mozzarella, shredded
Creamy Custard
- 4 large eggs
- 1½ cups (360 ml) milk
- ½ cup (120 ml) plain yogurt or sour cream
- ½ cup (120 ml) vegetable oil or melted butter
- 1½ cups (190 g) all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
Pastry
- 10–12 sheets phyllo dough
- ¼ cup melted butter or oil for brushing
Topping
- 1 egg yolk
- 1 tablespoon milk
- Fresh dill (optional)
Instructions
Step 1 – Prepare the Vegetables
- Grate the zucchini.
- Sprinkle with salt and let sit for 10 minutes.
- Squeeze out as much liquid as possible using a clean towel.
- Mix zucchini with carrots, onion, garlic, herbs, feta, and mozzarella.
Step 2 – Make the Custard
Whisk together:
- Eggs
- Milk
- Yogurt
- Oil
- Flour
- Baking powder
Mix until smooth.
Step 3 – Assemble
- Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Grease a 9×13-inch (23×33 cm) baking dish.
- Layer 5–6 phyllo sheets, brushing lightly with butter between every second sheet.
- Spread the vegetable mixture evenly.
- Pour the custard evenly over the vegetables.
- Cover with remaining phyllo sheets, brushing with butter between layers.
- Brush the top with egg yolk mixed with milk.
Step 4 – Bake
Bake for 45–50 minutes until deep golden brown and crisp.
Allow to rest 10–15 minutes before slicing.
Nutrition Information
Per serving (1 of 12 pieces, approximate)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 275 kcal |
| Protein | 11 g |
| Carbohydrates | 19 g |
| Fat | 18 g |
| Saturated Fat | 7 g |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Sugar | 4 g |
| Sodium | 430 mg |
| Calcium | 180 mg |
Nutrition values are estimates and will vary depending on the brands and exact quantities used.
Tips
- Squeeze the zucchini very well to prevent a soggy pie.
- Keep phyllo dough covered with a damp towel while working.
- Let the pie cool slightly before cutting for cleaner slices.
- Add cooked spinach, mushrooms, or chopped bell peppers for extra flavor.
Storage
- Refrigerator: Up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Up to 2 months.
- Reheat: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10–15 minutes to restore crispness.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use puff pastry instead of phyllo?
Yes. Puff pastry creates a richer, flakier pie but will be thicker than the version shown.
Q: Can I make it ahead?
Yes. Assemble the pie, refrigerate for up to 24 hours, then bake when ready.
Q: Can I make it gluten-free?
Yes, by using gluten-free phyllo (if available) and a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.
Q: Can I use frozen zucchini?
Yes, but thaw it completely and squeeze out all excess moisture.
Q: What cheese works best?
Feta provides tanginess, while mozzarella adds meltiness. Cheddar, ricotta, or cottage cheese also work well.
Q: Can I add meat?
Yes. Cooked ground beef, chicken, turkey, or crumbled sausage can be added to the vegetable filling.
Q: Why is my pie soggy?
Usually because the zucchini wasn’t drained well enough or the pie was cut before it had time to rest.
Q: What should I serve with it?
It pairs well with a fresh green salad, tomato and cucumber salad, Greek yogurt, or a bowl of soup.
