Looking for a quick and tasty appetizer or snack that’s light, crispy, and packed with flavor? These Zucchini Garlic Bites are just the thing. They’re simple to prepare, oven-baked to golden perfection, and perfect for everything from weeknight snacking to serving at a party. Whether I want a vegetarian bite for myself or a kid-friendly side dish, these little gems always come through.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love how fast and fuss-free these bites are to make with just a handful of ingredients. They’re crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and incredibly flavorful thanks to the fresh garlic and herbs. I also appreciate that they’re baked, not fried, making them a lighter option without sacrificing texture. Whether I’m feeding adults or kids, everyone devours them.
Ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
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2 medium zucchinis, grated
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1/2 teaspoon salt
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1 large egg, beaten
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1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
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1/4 cup breadcrumbs
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
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1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Zucchini
I start by grating the zucchinis and sprinkling them with salt. I let them sit for about 10 minutes to draw out the moisture. Then I squeeze out as much liquid as I can using a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth.
Step 2: Mix the Ingredients
In a large bowl, I mix the grated zucchini with the beaten egg, Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic, parsley, and black pepper until everything is evenly combined.
Step 3: Form the Bites
I preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Then I scoop about a tablespoon of the mixture, roll it into a ball, and place it on the baking sheet. I keep going until all the mixture is used up.
Step 4: Bake
I bake the bites for 20 to 25 minutes, or until they’re golden and crispy. I serve them hot for the best texture and flavor.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes about 20 zucchini garlic bites, enough for 4 servings as an appetizer or side dish. It takes approximately 10 minutes of prep time and 20–25 minutes of baking time, so everything’s ready in under 40 minutes.
Variations
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Spicy Version: I like adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
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Cheesy Delight: For extra gooeyness, I sometimes mix in shredded mozzarella.
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Herbed Bites: A dash of Italian seasoning gives these bites a fragrant, herby boost.
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Gluten-Free: I replace the breadcrumbs with almond flour for a gluten-free option.
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Dipping Delight: I pair them with marinara or a creamy garlic sauce to switch up the flavor.
Storage/Reheating
I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, I pop them back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5 to 10 minutes to bring back their crispiness. I avoid the microwave to keep them from turning soggy.
FAQs
Can I freeze Zucchini Garlic Bites?
Yes, I freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet first, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. When I’m ready to eat, I reheat them straight from frozen in the oven.
What if I don’t have Parmesan cheese?
I’ve used cheddar or other hard cheeses as a substitute and it works great. The flavor changes a bit, but it’s still delicious.
How do I keep the bites from falling apart?
The key is squeezing out as much moisture as I can from the zucchini and making sure everything is well mixed.
Can I make these in an air fryer?
Yes, I sometimes air fry them at 375°F for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through. They come out super crispy.
Are these good for meal prep?
Absolutely. I make a batch ahead and store them in the fridge or freezer. They reheat wonderfully in the oven or air fryer.
Conclusion
These Zucchini Garlic Bites are one of my go-to recipes for something that’s quick, healthy-ish, and completely satisfying. They’re perfect for snacking, party platters, or even packing in lunches. I love how easy they are to customize, and they always come out tasting amazing. Give them a try—I’m sure they’ll be a hit in your kitchen too.
Print
Zucchini Garlic Bites Recipe: Delicious and Easy
- Total Time: 30–35 minutes
- Yield: About 20 bites (4 servings)
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Light, crispy-on-the-outside, tender-on-the-inside zucchini garlic bites—perfect as a healthier baked appetizer or snack that’s packed with savory flavor and easy to make.
Ingredients
- 2 medium zucchinis, grated and drained
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- After grating the zucchinis, sprinkle with salt and let sit for 10 minutes. Squeeze out excess moisture using a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth.
- In a bowl, mix the drained zucchini with beaten egg, Parmesan, breadcrumbs, garlic, parsley, and black pepper until evenly combined.
- Scoop tablespoon-sized portions, roll into balls, and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes, until golden and crispy on the outside.
- Serve warm, optionally with dips like marinara or creamy garlic sauce.
Notes
- For a spicy kick, add red pepper flakes to the mixture.
- Mix in shredded mozzarella for a cheesy twist.
- Italian seasoning enhances the herb flavor.
- Use almond flour instead of breadcrumbs for a gluten-free version.
- Air fryer option: bake at 375°F for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through for extra crispiness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20–25 minutes
- Category: Appetizer / Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Comfort / Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 5–6 bites
- Calories: 90
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 25mg