Italian Beef Pie Dinner

• medium zucchini, peeled and shredded1
• salt↗1 teaspoon
• lb extra lean ground beef (90% lean)↗1 lb
• extra virgin olive oil↗2 tablespoons
• cup shredded mozzarella cheese1 cup
• (14 ounce) can diced tomatoes1
• dried oregano↗1⁄2 teaspoon
• dried basil↗1⁄2 teaspoon
• parmesan cheese↗3 tablespoons
• sliced mushrooms (optional) or 2 tablespoons olives (optional)2 tablespoons

Step-by-step instructions

1. 1

   Mix the salt into the shredded zucchini. Let sit for 15 minutes then drain thoroughly.

2. 2

   Mix the zucchini and olive oil into the beef, and then shape the beef into a flat circle in a greased 9" pie pan. (Leave a little room between the edge of the pan and the beef, so any extra fat can drain there).

3. 3

   Sprinkle the mozzarella over the beef, then top the mozzarella in layers with first the tomatos, then the mushrooms or olives if you are using them,then the herbs,then the parmesan. I sometimes use extra dried herbs and parmesan, because I like them (a lot!).

4. 4

   Bake the dish in a 350 degree oven for appx 40 minutes, or till beef is cooked through and parmesan is slightly browned.

5. 5

   Slice into wedges and serve.