Zucchini Garlic Bites are a simple, healthy, and delicious way to enjoy zucchini in a crispy, savory form. These bite-sized treats are packed with the fresh flavors of garlic, Parmesan, and Italian herbs, making them a perfect snack, appetizer, or side dish. Whether you’re looking for a light snack or a veggie-packed side to pair with dinner, these zucchini bites are sure to be a hit with everyone. With minimal ingredients and easy preparation, they’re a quick way to add flavor and nutrition to your meal.

Ingredients:

• 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch)
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 teaspoons garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1 egg, beaten
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (for drizzling)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)

Directions:

Prepare the zucchini:

1. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat for easy cleanup.
2. Slice the zucchini: Slice the zucchinis into 1/4-inch thick rounds, discarding the ends. You can also cut the slices into smaller pieces if preferred.

Make the coating:

3. Prepare the breadcrumb mixture: In a shallow bowl, mix together the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
4. Dip the zucchini: Dip each zucchini slice into the beaten egg, allowing any excess egg to drip off. Then coat each slice in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure the breadcrumbs stick well.

Bake the zucchini:

5. Arrange on the baking sheet: Place the coated zucchini slices in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil to help them crisp up in the oven.
6. Bake the zucchini: Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the zucchini bites are golden brown and crispy, flipping them halfway through to ensure even cooking.

Serve:

7. Garnish and serve: Once done, remove the zucchini bites from the oven and garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired. Serve hot with a dipping sauce like marinara or ranch for added flavor.

Notes:

• Baking vs. Frying: For a lighter option, baking works perfectly to get a crispy texture, but you can also fry the zucchini bites in a bit of olive oil for a more indulgent version.
• Make-Ahead: You can prepare the zucchini bites ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 1 day before baking. They can also be frozen before baking and baked from frozen for a convenient meal.
• Add-Ins: Feel free to add other seasonings, such as red pepper flakes for heat or fresh herbs like basil for extra flavor.

Conclusion:

Zucchini Garlic Bites are a delicious and healthy way to enjoy zucchini with the perfect balance of crispy texture and savory flavors. These bite-sized treats are easy to make, customizable with your favorite spices, and perfect for serving as a snack, appetizer, or side dish. Whether you’re serving them for a casual meal or as part of a larger spread, these zucchini bites will be a crowd-pleaser. Try them today for a flavorful and nutritious addition to your meal!