Description
These Crispy Zucchini Garlic Bites are golden on the outside and tender on the inside. Baked instead of fried, they combine zucchini, garlic, Parmesan and breadcrumbs for a flavorful, wholesome appetizer or snack.
Ingredients
- 2 cups grated zucchini (about 2 medium), excess moisture squeezed out
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (plain or seasoned, or panko)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 large eggs
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ cup finely chopped onion
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (or 1 teaspoon dried)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional)
- Cooking spray or a little olive oil for baking sheet
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400 °F (200 °C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly spray or brush with olive oil.
- Grate the zucchini and then use a clean kitchen towel or paper towels to squeeze out as much moisture as possible — this is key to crispiness. :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}
- In a large bowl, combine the squeezed zucchini, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, eggs, minced garlic, chopped onion, parsley, salt, pepper and Italian seasoning (if using). Mix until evenly combined.
- Using a tablespoon or cookie scoop, form the mixture into small balls (about 1 to 1½ inch each) and place them on the prepared baking sheet, spaced slightly apart.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes, flipping once halfway through, until golden brown and slightly crisp on the edges.
- Let them cool a few minutes, then serve warm with a dipping sauce such as marinara, ranch, or garlic aioli.
Notes
- If you want extra cheesiness, stir in shredded mozzarella or cheddar.
- For a spicy version, add chopped jalapeños or red pepper flakes.
- Yellow squash can be used instead of zucchini with the same method. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Re‑bake in oven at 375 °F for 8‑10 minutes (or air‑fryer about 5‑6 minutes) to re‑crisp.
- Freeze baked bites on a tray until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag and store up to 3 months. Re‑bake directly from frozen until hot and crisp.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 3–4 bites
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 11g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
