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Zucchini Garlic Bites Recipe

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4.2 from 8 reviews

These Zucchini Garlic Bites are a delicious and healthy appetizer featuring shredded zucchini combined with aromatic herbs, garlic, breadcrumbs, and Parmesan cheese. Baked until golden and crispy, they make a perfect finger food served with tangy tomato sauce for dipping.

  • Author: Chef
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15-18 minutes
  • Total Time: 28 minutes
  • Yield: 16 bites
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Italian
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Vegetables and Herbs

  • 1 cup shredded zucchini (drained well)
  • 1 clove garlic (grated fine)
  • 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)

Binding and Flavor

  • 1 large egg
  • 1/3 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese
  • Pinch of salt and pepper

Dip

  • Tomato sauce (for dipping)

Instructions

  1. Preheat 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.
  2. Prepare Zucchini: Grate the zucchini using a box grater. Place the shredded zucchini into a clean kitchen towel, roll it up, and firmly twist to wring out as much moisture as possible to avoid sogginess.
  3. Grate Garlic: Using the small holes on the box grater, finely grate the garlic clove to add fresh flavor to the mixture.
  4. Mix Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the drained shredded zucchini, grated garlic, egg, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, chopped chives, parsley, basil, oregano, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix thoroughly to blend all ingredients evenly.
  5. Form Bites: Scoop about a tablespoon of the mixture and shape it into small balls with your hands. Place each ball onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them evenly.
  6. Bake: Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake the zucchini bites for 15-18 minutes until they turn golden brown and crisp on the outside.
  7. Serve: Remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly. Serve the bites warm with your favorite marinara or tomato sauce for dipping.

Notes

  • Make sure to squeeze out excess moisture from the zucchini to prevent soggy bites.
  • These bites can be made in advance and reheated in the oven to retain crispiness.
  • Use fresh herbs when possible for a more vibrant flavor, but dried herbs work as a convenient substitute.
  • For a gluten-free version, substitute breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs.
  • Serve these bites as an appetizer or a healthy snack.