Save to Pinterest This satisfying slice combines grated zucchini, carrot, baby spinach, red bell pepper, and onion with savory ham and cheddar. The batter comes together quickly with eggs, milk, and olive oil, then bakes into a golden, moist loaf that's perfect for slicing.
Bake for 40 minutes until set and golden, then cool before serving. The texture is tender yet substantial, making it ideal for packing into lunchboxes or serving at brunch.
The smell of this slice baking always pulls my husband into the kitchen, asking whats in the oven. I started making it when my garden produced more zucchini than I could handle, and now its the most requested recipe at family picnics. Something about that combination of savory ham, sweet vegetables, and golden cheese just works.
Last summer my sister took one bite and immediately asked for the recipe to make for her kids lunchboxes. Theres something satisfying about packing a homemade slice instead of store bought snacks. My nieces fight over the end pieces with extra crispy cheese.
Ingredients
- Grated zucchini: Squeeze it really dry in a clean towel or your slice will turn out soggy, a mistake Ive made exactly once
- Grated carrot: Brings natural sweetness that balances the salty ham perfectly
- Red bell pepper: Finely diced so it distributes evenly throughout every bite
- Onion: I pulse mine in the food processor so no one gets a big chunk
- Baby spinach: Even spinach skeptics wont notice it mixed into all those colorful vegetables
- Ham: Leftover baked ham works beautifully here, just dice it small
- Cheddar cheese: Sharp cheddar gives the best flavor contrast
- Eggs: Room temperature eggs incorporate more easily into the batter
- Milk: Whole milk makes for a tender crumb
- Olive oil: Adds moisture without weighing down the slice
- Self-raising flour: If you only have plain flour, add 2 teaspoons baking powder
- Baking powder: Ensures the slice rises evenly
- Salt and pepper: Essential to bring all the flavors forward
- Fresh herbs: Chives add a mild onion flavor that ties everything together
Instructions
- Prepare your oven and pan:
- Get your oven to 180°C and line your loaf pan thoroughly, this batter sticks to everything
- Whisk the wet mixture:
- Beat those eggs, milk, and oil until completely combined
- Add all the vegetables and ham:
- Toss in your grated vegetables, diced ham, and cheese, give it a good stir
- Mix the dry ingredients:
- Sift the flour with baking powder, salt, and pepper into another bowl
- Combine everything:
- Fold the dry ingredients and herbs into the vegetable mixture until just barely mixed
- Bake to golden perfection:
- Spread into your prepared pan and bake for 40 minutes until golden and set
- Let it rest:
- Cooling in the pan helps the slice set properly before slicing
Save to Pinterest This slice became my go to when my mom had surgery and I was meal prepping for the family. It freezes beautifully, wrapped individually, making instant lunches for busy weeks. Now I always keep a few slices in the freezer for emergency meals.
Make Ahead Magic
Ive learned to grate and squeeze the zucchini the night before, storing it in a container with paper towels to absorb any remaining moisture. Morning prep becomes effortless when the vegetables are ready to go.
Serving Suggestions
Warm slices with a dollop of sour cream and fresh tomatoes transform this into a light dinner. For brunch, I serve it alongside a mixed green salad with vinaigrette. The contrast between the savory slice and crisp greens is perfect.
Storage and Reheating
This slice keeps beautifully in the refrigerator for three days, though it rarely lasts that long in my house. For longer storage, wrap individual slices in plastic wrap then foil, freeze for up to three months. Reheat frozen slices in a 160°C oven for about 15 minutes.
- Thaw overnight in the refrigerator for best texture
- A quick 20 second zap in the microwave works for rushed mornings
- The crispy cheese bits on top reheat surprisingly well
Save to Pinterest Theres something deeply comforting about a homemade slice that can feed a crowd or sustain you through a busy week. Hope this finds its way into your regular rotation too.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I make this vegetarian?
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Yes, simply omit the ham and add extra vegetables like corn, mushrooms, or bell peppers for bulk and flavor.
- → How long does this keep in the fridge?
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The slice stays fresh refrigerated for up to 3 days. Store in an airtight container and serve warm or at room temperature.
- → Can I freeze this slice?
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Yes, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
- → What can I serve with vegetable and ham slice?
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Pair with a crisp green salad, tangy tomato relish, or enjoy on its own for a complete light meal.
- → Can I substitute the flour?
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For gluten-free, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. The texture may be slightly denser but still delicious.
