Craving a satisfying snack but looking to keep things low-carb? Look no further than these Cheesy Zucchini Breadsticks! This recipe is a delicious and healthy alternative to traditional breadsticks, utilizing zucchini as a base and packing in flavor with melty cheese and savory spices.
These zucchini breadsticks are incredibly easy to make, requiring just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time. They’re perfect for satisfying afternoon cravings, whipping up a quick appetizer, or packing in a lunchbox for a healthy on-the-go option. Plus, they’re naturally low-carb and gluten-free, making them ideal for those following specific dietary restrictions.
So ditch the carb-heavy snacks and embrace the delicious goodness of these Cheesy Zucchini Breadsticks!
Ingredients:
- Low-Carb Base:
- 2 cups zucchini, shredded and firmly packed
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup almond flour
- Flavorful Cheesy Goodness:
- 4 ounces mozzarella cheese, shredded (divided)
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, shredded
- Seasoning:
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon white pepper, ground
- Finishing Touches:
- 1 tablespoon salted butter, melted
- 1 tablespoon parsley, finely chopped
Instructions:
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Preheat for Perfection: Begin by preheating your oven to 220°C (420°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. This ensures the breadsticks won’t stick and makes them easier to remove later.
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Taming the Moisture: Using a clean kitchen towel or dishcloth, firmly squeeze the shredded zucchini to remove excess moisture. You’ll want about 1 cup of drained zucchini for the perfect consistency.
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Mixing Up the Flavor: In a mixing bowl, combine the drained zucchini with the egg, half of the shredded mozzarella cheese, almond flour, Italian seasoning, salt, and white pepper. Mix everything well to ensure all the ingredients are evenly distributed.
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Forming the Breadsticks: Spoon the zucchini mixture onto your prepared baking sheet. Using a spatula or the back of a spoon, gently press the mixture into a rectangle about 0.25 inches (6mm) thick. This creates the base for your delicious breadsticks.
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Baking the Base: Place the baking sheet with the formed zucchini mixture into the preheated oven and bake for 15 minutes. Keep an eye on them – you want the edges to start turning golden brown.
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Time for Cheese!: Remove the baking sheet from the oven and carefully flip the zucchini breadsticks over. This ensures even cooking and browning. Brush the tops of the breadsticks with the melted butter, creating a base for the cheese. Finally, sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese and Parmesan cheese on top.
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Melty Perfection: Return the baking sheet to the oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. The golden brown cheese adds a delicious visual cue and irresistible flavor.
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Fresh Touch: Once baked through, remove the breadsticks from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. For a final flourish, sprinkle them with the finely chopped parsley. The fresh herbs add a pop of color and freshness.
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Enjoy!: Serve your Cheesy Zucchini Breadsticks warm and enjoy a delicious and satisfying low-carb snack!
More Information:
- Don’t have almond flour? You can substitute another low-carb flour option, such as coconut flour or ground flaxseed meal.
- Feel free to experiment with different cheese combinations. Try cheddar cheese, goat cheese, or even a feta cheese crumble for a tangy twist.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a pan over low heat until warmed through.
Conclusion:
These Cheesy Zucchini Breadsticks are a testament to the fact that healthy eating can be flavorful and satisfying. So ditch the limitations and embrace the creative possibilities of zucchini!