Zucchini Garlic Bites Recipe
Introduction
These Zucchini Garlic Bites are a flavorful, crispy snack perfect for any time of day. Bursting with fresh herbs and parmesan, they’re easy to make and great for dipping. A delicious way to enjoy zucchini in a bite-sized form!
Ingredients
- 1 cup zucchini, grated
- 1 clove garlic, grated
- 1/3 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup parmesan cheese, freshly grated
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 2 tablespoons fresh chives, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F and line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper. Set the sheet aside for later.
- Step 2: After grating the zucchini, transfer it to a clean kitchen towel. Gather the towel and squeeze out as much moisture as possible to prevent soggy bites.
- Step 3: Place the squeezed zucchini into a large mixing bowl. Add the grated garlic, beaten egg, breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, chopped chives, parsley, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything thoroughly until well combined.
- Step 4: Using a tablespoon, scoop portions of the mixture and shape them into small balls. Place the balls evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet.
- Step 5: Bake in the preheated oven for 15 to 18 minutes, or until the bites are golden brown and cooked through.
- Step 6: Remove from the oven and serve warm. These bites pair wonderfully with ranch dressing or marinara sauce for dipping. Enjoy!
Tips & Variations
- For extra crispiness, add a little grated mozzarella to the mixture or sprinkle some breadcrumbs on top before baking.
- Swap fresh herbs for dried if fresh aren’t available, using about one-third the amount.
- Try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick of heat.
- These bites can be pan-fried in a little oil for a crispier exterior instead of baking.
Storage
Store leftover zucchini garlic bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them in the oven at 350°F for 5–7 minutes to help retain their crispy texture. Avoid microwaving as it may make them soggy.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use frozen zucchini for this recipe?
Yes, but be sure to thaw and squeeze out all excess moisture thoroughly before mixing; otherwise, the bites may turn out soggy.
Can I make these gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers to keep the texture similar.
Print
Zucchini Garlic Bites Recipe
- Total Time: 33 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12–15 bites 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Zucchini Garlic Bites are crispy, cheesy, and packed with fresh herbs. Perfect as a healthy appetizer or snack, they combine grated zucchini, garlic, parmesan cheese, and fresh chives baked to golden perfection. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce like ranch or marinara for a deliciously satisfying treat.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 1 cup zucchini, grated
- 1 clove garlic, grated
- 1/3 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup parmesan cheese, freshly grated
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 2 tablespoons fresh chives, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Prepare Zucchini: Grate the zucchini and transfer it to a clean kitchen towel. Bundle up the towel and squeeze firmly to remove as much excess moisture as possible, which is essential to achieve a crispy texture.
- Mix Ingredients: Place the squeezed zucchini in a large bowl along with grated garlic, beaten egg, breadcrumbs, freshly grated parmesan cheese, minced chives, chopped parsley, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything together until fully combined into a consistent mixture.
- Form Bites: Using a tablespoon, scoop out portions of the mixture and shape each into small balls. Arrange the formed zucchini balls evenly on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between them.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 15 to 18 minutes, or until the bites turn golden brown and crisp on the outside.
- Serve: Remove from oven and let cool slightly. Serve warm with your choice of dipping sauce such as ranch dressing or marinara sauce. Enjoy these tasty bites as a snack or appetizer!
Notes
- Be sure to squeeze out all excess moisture from the zucchini to prevent sogginess.
- If you prefer a gluten-free version, substitute breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs.
- Fresh herbs like chives and parsley enhance flavor but can be swapped with your favorite fresh herbs.
- These bites can be made ahead and reheated in the oven for a few minutes before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: zucchini bites, garlic zucchini bites, healthy appetizer, baked zucchini, vegetable snacks, parmesan zucchini bites, vegetarian snacks
