Cheesy Zucchini and Vegetable Balls with Creamy Herb Sauce are a delicious and healthy snack or side dish that everyone will love. Made with grated vegetables, cheese, and oats, these oven-baked veggie balls are light, flavorful, and paired perfectly with a tangy and creamy sauce. Perfect for family dinners, parties, or a quick nutritious treat, these veggie balls are an excellent way to enjoy a wholesome, cheesy delight.
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
Ingredients
For the Zucchini Balls:
- 5 tablespoons oatmeal
- 1 zucchini, grated (1 cup or about 150g)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 100g (3.6 oz) cheese, grated (cheddar or mozzarella)
- 1 carrot, grated (1/2 cup or about 50g)
- 2 eggs
- Fresh parsley, chopped (2 tablespoons)
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 potato, grated (1 cup or about 120g)
- Olive oil, for greasing
For the Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons Greek yogurt or sour cream
- 3 teaspoons mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- Fresh parsley, chopped (1 tablespoon)
- Chives, chopped (1 tablespoon)
Directions
- Prepare Zucchini:
- Grate the zucchini and sprinkle with 1 teaspoon of salt. Let it sit for 15 minutes to draw out excess moisture.
- Squeeze out the liquid and set aside.
- Preheat Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease a baking sheet with olive oil.
- Prepare Vegetable Mixture:
- In a large bowl, combine grated zucchini, oatmeal, grated cheese, grated carrot, eggs, parsley, minced garlic, and grated potato. Mix until well combined.
- Form Balls:
- Shape the mixture into small balls and place them on the greased baking sheet.
- Bake:
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Prepare Sauce:
- In a small bowl, mix Greek yogurt (or sour cream), mayonnaise, ketchup, parsley, and chives until smooth.
- Serve:
- Serve warm zucchini balls with a dollop of creamy herb sauce.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a fresh salad for a light meal.
- Serve as an appetizer or party snack.
- Use as a filling for wraps or pita bread.
Cooking Tips
- Ensure vegetables are thoroughly squeezed to remove excess moisture for firmer balls.
- For extra crispiness, spray the balls lightly with olive oil before baking.
- Use your favorite herbs and spices to customize the flavor.
Nutritional Benefits
- Zucchini: Low in calories and high in antioxidants, vitamins C and A.
- Carrots: Rich in beta-carotene, promoting healthy skin and vision.
- Cheese: Adds calcium and protein.
- Oats: A great source of dietary fiber and supports heart health.
Dietary Information
- Vegetarian-friendly.
- Contains gluten, eggs, and dairy. (Substitutions can be made for specific dietary needs.)
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving – Approx. 6 servings)
- Calories: 150
- Protein: 8g
- Fat: 9g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 2g
Storage
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in an oven at 175°C (350°F) for 5-7 minutes to retain crispiness.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Wholesome and delicious with a cheesy twist.
- Easy to prepare with simple ingredients.
- Perfect as a snack, side dish, or appetizer.
- Oven-baked for a healthier alternative to fried snacks.
Conclusion
Cheesy Zucchini and Vegetable Balls with Creamy Herb Sauce are an irresistible combination of flavor and nutrition. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or looking for a fun family meal, these veggie balls offer a tasty, guilt-free option. Enjoy them warm, crispy, and paired with the zesty sauce that elevates every bite!
10 Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I freeze the zucchini balls?
Yes, freeze them after baking. Reheat in the oven at 180°C (350°F) until warmed through. - Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes, substitute eggs with flaxseed meal (1 tablespoon flaxseed + 2.5 tablespoons water per egg) and use vegan cheese. - What other vegetables can I use?
You can add grated sweet potato, spinach, or finely chopped bell peppers. - Can I use gluten-free oats?
Absolutely! Gluten-free oats work perfectly for this recipe. - Can I fry the zucchini balls instead?
Yes, shallow-fry them in a pan with oil over medium heat until golden brown. - Can I skip the sauce?
Yes, but the sauce enhances the flavor. You can substitute it with your favorite dip. - What kind of cheese works best?
Cheddar or mozzarella melts beautifully, but Parmesan can add extra flavor. - Can I use almond flour instead of oatmeal?
Yes, almond flour works as a low-carb alternative. - Can I prepare the mixture ahead of time?
Yes, you can refrigerate the mixture for up to 24 hours before baking. - How do I prevent the balls from being too soft?
Ensure you squeeze out all excess moisture from the zucchini and potato for firmer balls.