Description
These crispy zucchini garlic bites are a delicious, veggie-packed appetizer made from grated zucchini, breadcrumbs, garlic, herbs, and Parmesan cheese. Baked until golden brown and crispy on the outside, they are light, flavorful, and perfect to serve warm with marinara or ranch dipping sauce.
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables and Herbs
- 2 cups grated zucchini (about 2 medium), excess moisture squeezed out
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ cup finely chopped onion
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (or 1 teaspoon dried)
Dry Ingredients
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (plain or seasoned)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional)
Wet Ingredients
- 2 large eggs
For Baking
- Cooking spray or olive oil (for greasing)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly grease it with cooking spray or olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the grated zucchini (after squeezing out excess moisture), breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, eggs, minced garlic, chopped onion, parsley, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning if using. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Form Bites: Shape the mixture into small balls about 1 to 1½ inches in diameter, ensuring they hold together without being too dense. Place them evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes. Halfway through baking, carefully turn the bites over to promote even browning and crispiness. Continue baking until they are golden brown and slightly crisp on the outside.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the bites from the oven and allow them to cool briefly. Serve warm with marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or your favorite dipping sauce for the best flavor and texture experience.
Notes
- Make sure to squeeze the zucchini well to avoid soggy bites.
- Using panko breadcrumbs provides extra crunchiness.
- Feel free to add extra cheese or herbs to customize the flavor to your liking.
- These bites are great for make-ahead meal prep and freeze well for future use.
- Serving them warm enhances their texture and taste.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: zucchini bites, crispy zucchini, zucchini appetizer, garlic bites, baked zucchini, vegetarian appetizers, healthy snacks
