Zucchini Garlic Bites Recipe

Introduction

Zucchini Garlic Bites are tasty, bite-sized snacks perfect for parties or a simple appetizer. These golden, flavorful bites combine fresh herbs, Parmesan, and garlic for a satisfying crunchy treat.

Ingredients

• 1 cup shredded zucchini (drained well)
• 1 clove garlic (grated fine)
• 1/3 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese
• 1 large egg
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives (or 1 tablespoon dried chives)
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (or 1/2 tablespoon dried)
• 1 teaspoon chopped fresh basil (or 1/2 teaspoon dried)
• 1 teaspoon chopped fresh oregano (or 1/2 teaspoon dried)
• Pinch of salt and pepper
• Tomato sauce (for dipping)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400˚F and lightly coat a baking sheet with olive oil or non-stick spray. Set aside.
2. Step 2: Grate the zucchini using a box grater onto a clean towel. Roll the towel around the zucchini and twist to squeeze out as much moisture as possible.
3. Step 3: Grate the garlic using the small holes of the box grater to get a fine texture.
4. Step 4: In a medium bowl, combine the drained zucchini, grated garlic, egg, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, chives, parsley, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly to combine all ingredients.
5. Step 5: Take about a tablespoon of the mixture, shape it into small balls with your hands, and place them evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet.
6. Step 6: Bake for 15-18 minutes until the bites turn golden brown. Serve warm with tomato sauce for dipping.

Tips & Variations

• Make sure to drain the zucchini well to prevent soggy bites.
• For extra crispiness, you can lightly spray the bites with olive oil before baking.
• Try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick.
• Use gluten-free breadcrumbs if you prefer a gluten-free option.

Storage

Store leftover zucchini garlic bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in an oven or toaster oven at 350˚F for 5-7 minutes to retain their crispness. Avoid microwaving to prevent sogginess.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen zucchini for this recipe?

Yes, but make sure to thaw and squeeze out all excess moisture before using to keep the bites from becoming watery.

Can I prepare these bites ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the mixture and shape the bites a day in advance, then refrigerate them on the baking sheet covered with plastic wrap. Bake just before serving.

Zucchini Garlic Bites Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

5 from 80 reviews

These Zucchini Garlic Bites are a delicious and healthy appetizer featuring shredded zucchini mixed with garlic, Parmesan cheese, fresh herbs, and breadcrumbs, baked until golden and served warm with marinara sauce. Perfect for a light snack or party finger food.

• Author: Amaya
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 18 minutes
• Total Time: 33 minutes
• Yield: About 16 bites 1x
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Zucchini Mixture

• 1 cup shredded zucchini (drained well)
• 1 clove garlic (grated fine)
• 1/3 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese
• 1 large egg
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives (or 1 tablespoon dried chives)
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (or 1/2 tablespoon dried)
• 1 teaspoon chopped fresh basil (or 1/2 teaspoon dried)
• 1 teaspoon chopped fresh oregano (or 1/2 teaspoon dried)
• Pinch of salt and pepper

For Serving

• Tomato sauce (for dipping)

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400˚F (200˚C). Lightly coat a baking sheet with olive oil or non-stick spray and set it aside to prepare for baking the zucchini bites.
2. Prepare the Zucchini: Use a box grater to shred the zucchini into a clean kitchen towel. Roll up the towel tightly and twist it to wring out excess moisture from the zucchini, ensuring the bites won’t be soggy.
3. Grate the Garlic: Grate the garlic clove using the small holes of the box grater to produce a fine garlic paste, which will evenly distribute flavor in the mixture.
4. Mix Ingredients: In a medium mixing bowl, combine the well-drained shredded zucchini, grated garlic, egg, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped chives, parsley, basil, oregano, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
5. Shape the Bites: Take about a tablespoon of the mixture, shape it into small balls using your hands, and place them evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet.
6. Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the bites for 15 to 18 minutes or until they are golden brown and firm to the touch.
7. Serve: Remove from the oven and serve the zucchini garlic bites warm with your favorite marinara or tomato dipping sauce. Enjoy!

Notes

• Be sure to squeeze as much moisture as possible from the zucchini to prevent soggy bites.
• For a gluten-free option, substitute breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs.
• These bites can be made ahead and reheated in the oven for a few minutes before serving.
• Fresh herbs provide the best flavor, but dried herbs can be used if fresh are unavailable.
• Serve with a variety of dipping sauces for added flavor variety.

Keywords: Zucchini bites, vegetarian appetizer, garlic bites, baked zucchini, healthy snacks, party finger food