Scarpaccia recipe, a little-known gem of Tuscan cuisine, beautifully blends sweet and savory into a single dish. Its origins trace back to the coastal towns of Viareggio and Camaiore in Italy, where it began as a humble way for farmers to showcase their zucchini harvest. In Italian, “scarpaccia” means “old shoe,” a playful nod to its flat, rustic appearance—but don’t let the name fool you. This dish is bursting with flavor and charm!
What makes scarpaccia truly unique is its versatility. It straddles the line between a dessert and a side dish, making it a delightful choice for any meal. The sweet version highlights the natural sweetness of zucchini, while the savory variation leans into the rich flavors of olive oil, Parmesan, and herbs.
Scarpaccia is perfect for brunches, picnics, or as a quick snack. It’s also a wonderful way to use up an abundance of zucchini. Whether you serve it warm or at room temperature, its tender texture and aromatic flavors will transport you straight to a Tuscan summer.
Why will you love this recipe? Because it’s simple, rustic, and absolutely delicious. The subtle sweetness of zucchini, paired with aromatic herbs or a touch of sugar, creates a dish that feels both comforting and sophisticated. Plus, it’s a conversation starter—how many people can say they’ve tried scarpaccia?
Ready to bring a taste of Tuscany to your kitchen? Let’s dive into what makes this recipe a timeless favorite.
Table of contents
Why This Recipe Works
Scarpaccia’s appeal lies in its simplicity and versatility. Rooted in traditional Tuscan cooking, it transforms a few humble ingredients into a dish that feels indulgent and special. Whether sweet or savory, this zucchini-based recipe is a true celebration of seasonal produce.
1. A Balance of Flavors
The magic of scarpaccia comes from its ability to balance flavors. Zucchini, with its mild sweetness and subtle nuttiness, acts as the star ingredient. For the savory scarpaccia, olive oil, garlic, and Parmesan cheese amplify the umami notes, creating a dish that pairs beautifully with a variety of meals.
3. Customization Options
Scarpaccia is endlessly adaptable, making it ideal for various dietary needs and flavor preferences. You can tweak the ingredients to make it gluten-free, dairy-free, or vegan. It’s also a fantastic canvas for experimenting with flavors. Add a sprinkle fresh thyme or rosemary on the savory one for an herbaceous twist.
4. Minimal Ingredients, Maximum Impact
You don’t need a pantry full of fancy ingredients to make scarpaccia. Its charm lies in its simplicity. Flour, zucchini, eggs, and basic pantry staples like olive oil and sugar form the foundation. The quality of these ingredients matters, so opt for fresh, in-season zucchini and a good quality olive oil.
5. A Nod to Tradition
Scarpaccia embodies the spirit of Italian cucina povera, or “poor kitchen,” which emphasizes making the most of what’s available. This dish reflects the resourcefulness of Tuscan farmers who turned surplus zucchini into something extraordinary.
6. Ease of Preparation
Another reason scarpaccia works so well? It’s incredibly easy to prepare. Even if you’re a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is foolproof. The batter comes together in minutes, and you don’t need any special equipment—just a bowl, a whisk, and a baking tray.
Sweet vs. Savory: Which One to Choose?
Scarpaccia offers two distinct paths:
- Sweet Scarpaccia: This version is a delightful cross between a dessert and a snack. It’s subtly sweet, with just enough sugar to highlight the zucchini without overpowering it. Think of it as a rustic alternative to zucchini bread or cake. It’s perfect for an afternoon tea or as a light dessert with a dollop of whipped cream.
- Savory Scarpaccia: The savory version is the epitome of Tuscan simplicity. Garlic, Parmesan, and olive oil give it a rich, umami packed flavor. It’s a fantastic side dish for soups, salads, or grilled meats, and it even works as an appetizer when cut into small squares.
Why You’ll Love The Scarpaccia Recipe
- Seasonal and Fresh: Scarpaccia highlights the best of seasonal zucchini, making it a great recipe for summer or early fall.
- Quick and Easy: With minimal prep and basic ingredients, this recipe is perfect for busy days.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Whether sweet or savory, scarpaccia is sure to impress. It’s unique enough to feel special, yet familiar enough to be comforting.
- Budget-Friendly: Using affordable, readily available ingredients, scarpaccia is a cost effective way to create something delicious.
Ingredients Breakdown
Ingredients for Savory Scarpaccia recipe
- Zucchini – 2 medium sized (about 300 grams), grated.
- All-Purpose Flour – 1 cup (125 grams).
- Eggs – 2 large.
- Olive Oil – 2 tablespoons (plus extra for greasing).
- Provides a silky texture and makes the savory profile better.
- Parmesan Cheese – ½ cup (50 grams), grated.
- Adds umami and a nutty richness.
- Garlic – 2 cloves, minced.
- Offers a fragrant kick.
- Salt – ½ tea spoon.
- Balances the flavors.
- Black Pepper – ¼ tea spoon.
- For a mild heat and earthy flavor.
- Fresh Thyme (optional) – 1 tea spoon, chopped.
- Adds a herbaceous touch to elevate the dish.
Pro Tips for Success
1. Choose the Right Zucchini
Fresh zucchini is key to a delicious scarpaccia. Avoid oversized zucchini, as they tend to be more watery and less flavorful. Smaller, younger zucchini work best for their tender texture and natural sweetness.
2. Squeeze That Zucchini!
Removing excess moisture is crucial. If the zucchini retains too much water, the scarpaccia will turn soggy. Use a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth to wring out as much liquid as possible.
3. Customize the Thickness
For a crispier scarpaccia, use a larger pan and spread the batter thinly. For a more tender texture, opt for a smaller pan and slightly thicker batter.
4. Invest in High-Quality Ingredients
Simple recipes like scarpaccia rely heavily on ingredient quality. Use fresh, organic zucchini, high-quality olive oil, and authentic Parmesan for the best results.
5. Monitor Baking Time
Since oven temperatures can vary, start checking your scarpaccia after 25 minutes. Look for golden edges and a set center. Overbaking can result in a dry texture.
Variants of the Scarpaccia Recipe
Scarpaccia is wonderfully versatile, and its simplicity invites endless adaptations. Here are a few creative takes on this classic recipe:
1. Sweet Corn Scarpaccia
Instead of zucchini, use fresh or frozen corn kernels. The natural sweetness of corn pairs perfectly with cinnamon and a drizzle of maple syrup. Add a pinch of nutmeg for extra warmth, and top with crushed pecans before baking for a crunchy texture.
2. Chocolate Chip Zucchini Scarpaccia
For a dessert worthy version, fold in a handful of dark chocolate chips and swap out the cinnamon for a touch of cocoa powder. This variant is perfect for brunch or as a light treat with afternoon coffee.
3. Herbed Savory Scarpaccia
Enhance the savory version by adding fresh herbs like rosemary, oregano, or basil. You can also toss in chopped Kalamata olives and feta cheese for a Mediterranean-inspired twist.
4. Spiced Pumpkin Scarpaccia
Incorporate pureed pumpkin in place of zucchini for a fall-inspired treat. Add a mix of cinnamon, ginger, and cloves for a warm, spiced flavor. This version pairs perfectly with whipped cream or a caramel drizzle.
5. Vegan Savory Scarpaccia
Replace the eggs with a flax seed mixture (1 table spoon flax seed meal + 2.5 tablespoons water per egg) and the Parmesan cheese with nutritional yeast. Opt for plant based milk like almond or soy.
Serving Suggestions
Scarpaccia is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed on its own or paired with various accompaniments to create a complete meal or dessert experience.
- As a Side Dish
- Serve alongside grilled chicken, roasted vegetables, or a light salad for a balanced meal.
- With Dips and Spreads
- Pair with hummus, tzatziki, or a creamy spinach dip for a crowd-pleasing appetizer.
- As a Base for Eggs
- Top a warm slice with a poached egg and a sprinkle of chives for a hearty breakfast or brunch option.
Recipe Card
Scarpaccia Recipe
Cuisine: ItalianDifficulty: Easy8
servings20
minutes40
minutes200
kcalThis traditional Tuscan dish is a delightful blend of simplicity and flavor. Whether sweet or savory, scarpaccia is perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
3 medium zucchinis, grated
1 cup (125g) all-purpose flour
2 large eggs
½ cup (120ml) milk
½ cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp dried oregano
½ tsp garlic powder
Pinch of salt and black pepper
Directions
- Prepare the Zucchini (10 minutes)
Wash and grate the zucchinis. Place in a colander, sprinkle with salt, and let sit for 10 minutes. Squeeze out excess moisture. - Mix the Batter (10 minutes)
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, and (for sweet) vanilla extract or (for savory) olive oil. Gradually add the flour, salt, and spices, mixing until smooth. - Incorporate Zucchini (5 minutes)
Fold the grated zucchini into the batter until evenly distributed. - Prepare the Pan (5 minutes)
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper. - Bake the Scarpaccia (40 minutes)
Pour the batter into the prepared pan. Spread evenly and bake for 35–40 minutes or until golden brown and set in the middle. - Cool and Serve (10 minutes)
Let the scarpaccia cool slightly before slicing into squares or wedges. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Notes
- For a gluten-free option, substitute almond flour or a gluten-free baking mix.
- Adjust the sugar or Parmesan cheese according to your taste preference.
FAQs about Scarpaccia recipe
This often happens if the zucchini isn’t drained properly. Be sure to squeeze out as much moisture as possible after salting it.
Yes! Substitute eggs with a flaxseed mixture (1 tbsp flaxseed + 2.5 tbsp water per egg) and use plant-based milk. For savory versions, replace Parmesan with nutritional yeast.
Absolutely! Corn, carrots, or thinly sliced bell peppers work well. Adjust seasoning to complement the vegetable.
Final Thoughts
Scarpaccia is a beautiful ode to the simplicity and ingenuity of Tuscan cuisine. Whether you opt for the sweet or savory version, this recipe brings a taste of Italy to your table. It’s not just a dish; it’s a celebration of fresh, wholesome ingredients transformed into something extraordinary.
Perfect for brunches, light lunches, or even as a dessert, scarpaccia is versatile, flavorful, and easy to prepare. Why not give it a try this weekend? Experiment with the variants, and share your results in the comments below! If you’re a fan of rustic Italian recipes, be sure to check out Authentic Tteokbokki Recipe for another delightful treat.
So, roll up your sleeves, grab those zucchinis, and bake up some Tuscan magic. And don’t forget to tag us on social media with your creations—we’d love to see your scarpaccia masterpieces!