Name: Zucchini Garlic Bites
Prep time: 12 min
Cook time: 18 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 cup shredded zucchini (drained well): Provides the base and texture.; 1 clove garlic (grated fine): Adds a punch of flavor.; 1/3 cup breadcrumbs: Helps bind the ingredients.; 1/4 cup grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese: Offers a nutty flavor.; 1 large egg: Acts as a binding agent.; 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives (or 1 tablespoon dried): Gives a mild onion flavor.; 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (or 1/2 tablespoon dried): Enhances the taste.; 1 teaspoon chopped fresh basil (or 1/2 teaspoon dried): Adds a sweet and savory flavor.; 1 teaspoon chopped fresh oregano (or 1/2 teaspoon dried): Provides an earthy, slightly bitter taste.; Pinch of salt and pepper: For seasoning.; Tomato sauce for dipping: Complements the bites.

Jump to Recipe

Zucchini Garlic Bites, a delightful and healthy snack, are perfect for anyone looking to enjoy a tasty yet nutritious treat. These bites are a fusion of shredded zucchini, aromatic garlic, and a blend of Italian herbs, all baked to crispy perfection. Ideal as an appetizer, side dish, or a kid-friendly meal, they embody a delicious way to utilize the abundant zucchini harvest. The recipe, originally published in August 2014, has gained immense popularity for its simplicity and flavor. It’s a testament to the versatility of zucchini, transforming it into a scrumptious bite that’s both easy to make and a joy to eat. Whether you’re hosting a party, looking for a quick snack, or want to add a twist to your meals, these Zucchini Garlic Bites, served with a classic tomato marinara sauce, are sure to impress.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Creating Zucchini Garlic Bites requires a few simple tools and some preparation. Start by preheating your oven to 400˚F and preparing a baking sheet with non-stick spray or parchment paper. The primary tool you’ll need is a box grater, essential for shredding the zucchini. Ensure you have a clean kitchen towel at hand for wringing out moisture from the zucchini – a crucial step for achieving the perfect texture.

For chopping herbs and grating garlic, a sharp knife and a small grater are necessary. You’ll also need a medium-sized prep bowl to mix your ingredients. The ingredients include zucchini, garlic, egg, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, chives, parsley, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Remember, the key to success lies in removing as much moisture as possible from the zucchini to ensure your bites are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.

Ingredients List

1 cup shredded zucchini (drained well): Provides the base and texture.
1 clove garlic (grated fine): Adds a punch of flavor.
1/3 cup breadcrumbs: Helps bind the ingredients.
1/4 cup grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese: Offers a nutty flavor.
1 large egg: Acts as a binding agent.
2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives (or 1 tablespoon dried): Gives a mild onion flavor.
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (or 1/2 tablespoon dried): Enhances the taste.
1 teaspoon chopped fresh basil (or 1/2 teaspoon dried): Adds a sweet and savory flavor.
1 teaspoon chopped fresh oregano (or 1/2 teaspoon dried): Provides an earthy, slightly bitter taste.
Pinch of salt and pepper: For seasoning.
Tomato sauce for dipping: Complements the bites.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat and Prepare: Start by preheating your oven to 400˚F. Lightly coat a baking sheet with olive oil or non-stick spray.
Grate and Drain Zucchini: Use a box grater to grate the zucchini into a clean towel. Roll up the towel and twist to wring out as much moisture as possible.
Grate Garlic: Use the small holes on the box grater to grate the garlic finely.
Combine Ingredients: In a medium bowl, mix the shredded zucchini, grated garlic, egg, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, chives, parsley, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper until well combined.
Form Zucchini Balls: Take a tablespoon of the mixture, shape it into small balls, and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
Bake: Bake the zucchini balls in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes until they turn golden. Serve warm with marinara sauce.

Nutritional Information & Health Benefits

Zucchini Garlic Bites are not just delicious; they’re packed with nutritional benefits. Each bite contains approximately 26 calories, making them a low-calorie snack option. Zucchini, the main ingredient, is high in vitamins A and C, essential for immune function and skin health. It’s also a good source of potassium, which helps in maintaining healthy blood pressure levels.

The inclusion of garlic adds not only flavor but also health benefits. Garlic is known for its anti-inflammatory properties and its ability to boost the immune system. The Parmesan cheese provides calcium for bone health, while the herbs like parsley, basil, and oregano offer various antioxidants, which are vital for fighting free radicals in the body.

These bites are also a great source of dietary fiber, thanks to the breadcrumbs and zucchini. Fiber aids in digestion and helps in maintaining a healthy gut. Additionally, the egg in the recipe contributes protein, essential for muscle repair and growth.

Overall, Zucchini Garlic Bites are a healthy choice for those seeking a nutritious snack. They are low in fat and calories, high in vitamins and minerals, and offer a good balance of carbohydrates, protein, and fiber. This makes them an excellent option for a healthy diet, providing essential nutrients while satisfying your taste buds.

Common Mistakes To Avoid & How to Perfect the Recipe

When making Zucchini Garlic Bites, there are a few common pitfalls to avoid:

Not Draining Zucchini Well: The most crucial step is to remove as much moisture as possible from the zucchini. Excess moisture can lead to soggy bites. Ensure you squeeze the shredded zucchini thoroughly using a kitchen towel.
Overmixing the Ingredients: Gently mix the ingredients until just combined. Overmixing can make the bites dense and heavy.
Skipping Fresh Herbs: While dried herbs can be used, fresh herbs significantly enhance the flavor. If possible, opt for fresh parsley, basil, and oregano.
Incorrect Oven Temperature: Make sure your oven is properly preheated to 400˚F. A lower temperature might not give the bites a crispy exterior.
Overcrowding the Baking Sheet: Place the zucchini balls with enough space between them. Overcrowding can cause them to steam rather than bake, affecting the texture.

To perfect the recipe, pay attention to the size of the zucchini balls. Consistent size ensures even cooking. Also, consider using parchment paper on the baking sheet for easy removal and cleanup. Lastly, serve them warm with a side of marinara sauce for the best taste experience.

Tips, Notes, Storing, and Reheating

Tips and Notes:

Herb Variations: Feel free to experiment with different herbs according to your taste.
Cheese Options: If Parmigiano-Reggiano is not available, other hard cheeses like Grana Padano can be used.
Breadcrumb Alternatives: For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond meal.

Storing and Reheating:

Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Freezing: To freeze, place cooled bites on a baking sheet, freeze for an hour, then transfer to a freezer bag. They can be stored for up to 4 months.
Reheating: Reheat in a preheated 400˚F oven for about 5-8 minutes if refrigerated, or 10-15 minutes if frozen, until warm and crispy.

FAQs

Can I make these in an air fryer? Yes, preheat the air fryer at 375˚F and cook the bites for 10-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
Can I prepare the mixture ahead of time? Absolutely, just keep the mixture refrigerated until ready to bake.
How can I make these gluten-free? Substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond meal.
Can I use frozen shredded zucchini?

Yes, you can use frozen shredded zucchini. Thaw it first and drain off any excess moisture before mixing with the other ingredients. You might need to add extra breadcrumbs to achieve the right consistency.

What if I don’t have fresh herbs? Dried herbs can be used as a substitute. Use half the amount specified for fresh herbs, as dried herbs have a more concentrated flavor.
Is there a vegan alternative for the egg and cheese? For a vegan version, replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons of water, let it sit until thickened). Use a vegan cheese substitute for Parmesan.
Can I use a different type of cheese? Yes, other cheeses can be used, but it may alter the flavor and texture. Parmesan is preferred for its ability to bind and add flavor.
How can I serve these bites? They are perfect as an appetizer with marinara sauce for dipping, or as a side dish. They can also be served atop spaghetti as a vegetarian alternative to meatballs.
Can these bites be made without garlic? While garlic adds a significant flavor, you can omit it if desired or replace it with a pinch of garlic powder for a milder taste.
Are these bites suitable for a keto diet? To make them keto-friendly, replace breadcrumbs with a keto-friendly alternative like almond flour or crushed pork rinds.

Conclusion

Zucchini Garlic Bites are a versatile, delicious, and healthy option suitable for various dietary needs. They are perfect for those seeking a nutritious snack or a creative way to use zucchini. With their crispy exterior, tender interior, and flavorful Italian-inspired twist, these bites are sure to be a hit at any gathering or as a delightful addition to your meal. Remember to focus on removing moisture from the zucchini, use fresh ingredients where possible, and enjoy the process of creating these delightful bites. Happy cooking!