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.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!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:
- 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.
- 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:
- Prepare the breadcrumb mixture: In a shallow bowl, mix together the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- 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:
- 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.
- 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:
- 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!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these Zucchini Garlic Bites ahead of time, and if so, how should I store them?
Yes, you can definitely prepare the Zucchini Garlic Bites ahead of time. You can slice the zucchini, prepare the breadcrumb mixture, and coat the zucchini slices up to 1 day in advance. Store the coated zucchini slices, uncooked, in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, then cover and refrigerate. Alternatively, you can freeze the uncooked, coated zucchini bites on a baking sheet and then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
What are some good ingredient substitutions if I don’t have breadcrumbs or Parmesan cheese?
If you don’t have breadcrumbs, you can substitute with crushed crackers (such as Ritz or saltines) or finely ground oats, using the same 1/2 cup measurement. For the Parmesan cheese, you can substitute with an equal amount of Pecorino Romano cheese for a sharper flavor, or nutritional yeast for a vegan option, though the flavor will be slightly different. Remember to adjust the salt content if using saltine crackers or Pecorino Romano.
How do I know when the Zucchini Garlic Bites are perfectly cooked?
The Zucchini Garlic Bites are perfectly cooked when they are golden brown and crispy on the outside. The zucchini should be tender when pierced with a fork. Baking time is typically 20-25 minutes at 400°F (200°C), but keep an eye on them. If you are frying them, they should be golden brown on both sides, which usually takes about 3-4 minutes per side. Consider using a kitchen thermometer to check the internal temperature of the zucchini; it should be around 190°F (88°C).
Can I double or triple this recipe to make a larger batch?
Yes, you can easily scale this recipe up. If doubling, you’ll need to use a larger baking sheet or multiple baking sheets, ensuring the zucchini bites are in a single layer for even cooking. Increase the baking time slightly, and check for doneness. For tripling the recipe, you might need to bake in batches, depending on your oven size. Adjust the amount of olive oil accordingly to ensure all zucchini bites are properly coated.
What are the nutritional benefits of eating these Zucchini Garlic Bites?
These Zucchini Garlic Bites offer several nutritional benefits. Zucchini is a good source of vitamins A and C, as well as potassium and fiber. Parmesan cheese provides calcium and protein. The garlic offers antioxidant properties, and the olive oil provides healthy fats. The breadcrumb coating adds some carbohydrates for energy. These bites are a great way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet while enjoying a delicious snack or side dish.
Zucchini Garlic Bites – Crispy, Savory, and Full of Flavor
A delightful snack that combines the crunch of zucchini with the rich flavor of garlic, perfect for any occasion.
Prep
: 10
Total
: 25 minutes
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups grated zucchini excess water removed
- 0.5 cup bread crumbs can use panko
- 1 cup shredded cheese cheddar or mozzarella
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 large egg
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- 0.25 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a large bowl, combine the zucchini, bread crumbs, cheese, garlic, egg, salt, and pepper.
- Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
- Spoon a tablespoon of the mixture and form into small balls. Place them onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce.
Notes
For a healthier option, try baking them instead of frying.
