These Zucchini Garlic Bites are a savory, bite-sized snack that combines the fresh taste of zucchini with garlic, herbs, and Parmesan cheese. They’re easy to make, packed with flavor, and perfect as an appetizer or a light snack. Best of all, they’re baked, not fried, making them a healthier option!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup shredded zucchini
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Directions:
1. Prepare the Zucchini:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Shred the Zucchini: Using a grater, shred 1 cup of zucchini. Place the shredded zucchini in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth, and squeeze out as much moisture as possible. This step is important to ensure the bites hold their shape.
2. Mix the Ingredients:
- Combine Ingredients: In a medium mixing bowl, combine the shredded zucchini, 1 large egg, 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, 1/4 cup breadcrumbs, 1 minced garlic clove, 1/4 teaspoon dried basil, and 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano. Add salt and pepper to taste.
- Mix Well: Stir the mixture until all ingredients are well combined.
3. Form the Bites:
- Shape the Mixture: Using a spoon or your hands, shape the zucchini mixture into small balls, about the size of a tablespoon. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them slightly apart.
4. Bake:
- Bake the Bites: Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the bites are golden brown and firm to the touch. For extra crispiness, you can flip them halfway through the baking time.
5. Serve:
- Enjoy: Serve these zucchini garlic bites warm. They pair wonderfully with marinara sauce, sour cream, or your favorite dip!
Serving and Storage:
- Serving: These bites make a perfect appetizer or snack, especially when served with dipping sauces like marinara or ranch dressing.
- Storage: Store leftover bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Helpful Notes:
- Squeezing the Zucchini: Be sure to squeeze out as much moisture from the zucchini as possible. This ensures that the bites don’t become soggy and helps them hold their shape.
- Breadcrumbs: You can use regular, whole wheat, or even gluten-free breadcrumbs based on your preference.
Tips for Success:
- Extra Crispy: If you prefer extra crispy bites, place them under the broiler for 1-2 minutes at the end of baking, keeping a close eye on them to avoid burning.
- Add More Flavor: Feel free to add extra herbs like parsley or thyme, or even a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
Frequently Asked Questions:
1. Can I make these bites ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the zucchini garlic bites ahead of time, shape them, and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake them. You can also freeze the shaped bites before baking and cook them directly from frozen, adding a few minutes to the baking time.
2. Can I use other cheeses?
Absolutely! While Parmesan adds a great salty and nutty flavor, you can also try mozzarella, cheddar, or even feta for a different taste.
3. Can I fry these bites instead of baking?
Yes, you can pan-fry the zucchini bites in a little oil over medium heat for about 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through.
4. What can I use instead of breadcrumbs?
For a gluten-free option, you can substitute the breadcrumbs with almond flour, crushed gluten-free crackers, or gluten-free breadcrumbs.
5. How do I prevent the bites from falling apart?
The key to keeping the bites together is removing excess moisture from the zucchini. If your mixture feels too wet, add a little more breadcrumbs to help bind it.
These Zucchini Garlic Bites are a delicious and healthy way to enjoy zucchini, and they’re perfect for parties, meal prep, or a simple snack. Enjoy!
