Crispy Zucchini Garlic Bites – A Savory Appetizer Recipe

Introduction

Crispy zucchini garlic bites are a delicious and savory appetizer that’s perfect for any occasion. These golden, flavorful morsels combine fresh zucchini with Parmesan and herbs for a satisfying bite. Easy to make and bake, they’re great for sharing or enjoying as a snack.

Ingredients

• 2 cups grated zucchini (about 2 medium), excess moisture squeezed out
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (plain or seasoned)
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 large eggs
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ¼ cup finely chopped onion
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (or 1 teaspoon dried)
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional)
• Cooking spray or olive oil (for baking)

Instructions

1. Step 1: 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.
2. Step 2: In a large bowl, combine the grated zucchini, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, eggs, minced garlic, chopped onion, parsley, salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning if using. Mix well until fully incorporated.
3. Step 3: Form the mixture into small balls about 1 to 1½ inches in size. Arrange them evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Step 4: Bake for 20–25 minutes, turning the bites once halfway through, until they are golden brown and slightly crisp on the outside.
5. Step 5: Let the bites cool slightly before serving. Enjoy them warm with marinara sauce, ranch, or your favorite dip.

Tips & Variations

• For extra crispiness, chill the formed bites in the fridge for 20 minutes before baking.
• Try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the mixture for a subtle kick.
• Use gluten-free breadcrumbs to make this recipe suitable for gluten intolerance.
• Fresh herbs like basil or oregano can be substituted for parsley to vary the flavor.

Storage

Store leftover zucchini bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5–7 minutes to retain their crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as this can make them soggy.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make these zucchini bites ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the mixture and form the bites ahead of time. Keep them covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.

What can I use instead of Parmesan cheese?

If you prefer, you can substitute Parmesan with another hard cheese like Pecorino Romano or Asiago. For a dairy-free option, nutritional yeast works well to add a savory flavor.

Crispy Zucchini Garlic Bites – A Savory Appetizer Recipe

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★★★★★

4.8 from 99 reviews

Crispy Zucchini Garlic Bites are a savory and healthy appetizer made with grated zucchini, Parmesan cheese, garlic, and herbs, baked to perfection for a golden, crispy exterior and tender inside. These bites make a delicious and easy-to-make snack or party finger food, perfectly paired with marinara sauce or ranch dip.

• Author: Lisa
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: About 20 bites 1x
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Zucchini Mixture

• 2 cups grated zucchini (about 2 medium), excess moisture squeezed out
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (plain or seasoned)
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 large eggs
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ¼ cup finely chopped onion
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (or 1 teaspoon dried)
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional)

Baking

• Cooking spray or olive oil (for greasing)

Instructions

1. Preheat the 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.
2. Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the grated zucchini (with excess moisture squeezed out), breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, eggs, minced garlic, finely chopped onion, chopped parsley, salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning if using. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.
3. Form Bites: Shape the mixture into small balls about 1 to 1½ inches in diameter. Arrange them evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they have room to crisp evenly.
4. Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes. Halfway through baking, turn the zucchini bites over to ensure they brown and crisp evenly on all sides.
5. Cool and Serve: Once golden brown and crispy on the outside, remove from the oven. Allow the bites to cool slightly before serving. Serve warm alongside marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or your favorite dip for a tasty appetizer.

Notes

• To ensure the zucchini bites are crispy, be sure to squeeze out as much moisture as possible from the grated zucchini before mixing.
• You can use either plain or seasoned breadcrumbs depending on your taste preference; seasoned breadcrumbs will add extra flavor.
• For a gluten-free version, substitute breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives like crushed gluten-free crackers or almond flour.
• These bites can be made ahead and refrigerated; reheat in the oven to maintain crispiness.
• Feel free to adjust the seasoning according to your preference, adding more garlic or herbs as desired.

Keywords: Zucchini bites, garlic bites, crispy zucchini appetizer, baked zucchini snacks, vegetarian finger food, savory zucchini balls