Zucchini Garlic Bites are a tasty, bite-sized snack packed with fresh herbs, Parmesan cheese, and shredded zucchini. Perfect as an appetizer, side dish, or even a light meal, these little bites are baked until golden and served with a tangy tomato dipping sauce. They are an easy way to enjoy zucchini, making them a hit with both kids and adults!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup shredded zucchini, drained well
- 1 clove garlic, finely grated
- 1/3 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons fresh chives, chopped (or 1 tablespoon dried chives)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (or 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley)
- 1 teaspoon fresh basil, chopped (or 1/2 teaspoon dried basil)
- 1 teaspoon fresh oregano, chopped (or 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano)
- A pinch of salt and pepper
- Tomato sauce for dipping
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a baking sheet with a bit of oil or non-stick cooking spray to prevent the bites from sticking.
- Prepare the Zucchini:
- Shred the zucchini using a grater onto a clean towel. Wrap the shredded zucchini in the towel and squeeze out as much moisture as possible. This helps to prevent the bites from becoming too watery during baking.
- Mix the Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained zucchini, grated garlic, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, chopped herbs (chives, parsley, basil, and oregano), salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is well combined and the mixture holds together.
- Shape the Zucchini Bites:
- Using your hands, form the zucchini mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter. Place each ball on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between them for even cooking.
- Bake:
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the zucchini bites for 15 to 18 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside.
- Serve:
- Once baked, remove the zucchini bites from the oven and let them cool for a minute. Serve with a side of warm tomato sauce for dipping.
Cooking Tips:
- Removing Moisture: Be sure to drain the zucchini well before mixing it with the other ingredients. Excess moisture can make the bites too soft and prevent them from holding their shape.
- Cheese Substitute: If you prefer a different flavor, you can swap Parmigiano-Reggiano with Pecorino Romano or another hard cheese.
- Herb Variations: Feel free to experiment with other herbs like thyme or rosemary if you have them on hand.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Zucchini: Low in calories and rich in vitamins A and C, zucchini is a great vegetable that adds moisture and fiber to these bites.
- Garlic: Known for its antioxidant properties, garlic enhances the flavor while also offering potential health benefits like boosting the immune system.
- Herbs: Fresh herbs not only add flavor but also provide vitamins and minerals.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Healthy Alternative: These zucchini bites are baked, not fried, making them a healthier alternative to other snacks.
- Versatile: They can be served as an appetizer, snack, or even a light lunch when paired with a salad.
- Kid-Friendly: A great way to sneak some veggies into your kids’ meals—especially with the added fun of dipping them into tomato sauce!
Dietary Information:
- Vegetarian: This recipe is vegetarian-friendly.
- Gluten-Free Option: To make this recipe gluten-free, substitute the breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs.
- Low-Carb Option: You can also substitute regular breadcrumbs with almond flour for a low-carb version.
Conclusion:
These Zucchini Garlic Bites are crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and packed with flavor. Easy to prepare and loaded with healthy ingredients, they are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a quick appetizer or a light snack, these bites are sure to satisfy your cravings. Pair them with a fresh tomato sauce for dipping, and enjoy!
PrintZucchini Garlic Bites
- Total Time: 30mins
Description
Zucchini Garlic Bites are a tasty, bite-sized snack packed with fresh herbs, Parmesan cheese, and shredded zucchini. Perfect as an appetizer, side dish, or even a light meal, these little bites are baked until golden and served with a tangy tomato dipping sauce. They are an easy way to enjoy zucchini, making them a hit with both kids and adults!
Ingredients
- 1 cup shredded zucchini, drained well
- 1 clove garlic, finely grated
- 1/3 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons fresh chives, chopped (or 1 tablespoon dried chives)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (or 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley)
- 1 teaspoon fresh basil, chopped (or 1/2 teaspoon dried basil)
- 1 teaspoon fresh oregano, chopped (or 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano)
- A pinch of salt and pepper
- Tomato sauce for dipping
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a baking sheet with a bit of oil or non-stick cooking spray to prevent the bites from sticking.
- Prepare the Zucchini:
- Shred the zucchini using a grater onto a clean towel. Wrap the shredded zucchini in the towel and squeeze out as much moisture as possible. This helps to prevent the bites from becoming too watery during baking.
- Mix the Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained zucchini, grated garlic, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, chopped herbs (chives, parsley, basil, and oregano), salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is well combined and the mixture holds together.
- Shape the Zucchini Bites:
- Using your hands, form the zucchini mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter. Place each ball on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between them for even cooking.
- Bake:
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the zucchini bites for 15 to 18 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside.
- Serve:
- Once baked, remove the zucchini bites from the oven and let them cool for a minute. Serve with a side of warm tomato sauce for dipping.
- Prep Time: 12mins
- Cook Time: 18mins