These Easy Cheesy Zucchini Breadsticks are a fun way to enjoy veggies! They’re made with fresh zucchini and gooey cheese, making them a tasty snack or side dish.
Who knew eating veggies could be this cheesy and delicious? I love dipping them in marinara sauce—it’s like a pizza party on a stick! Perfect for munching anytime. 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchinis: Fresh, medium zucchinis are best for this recipe. If you’re in a pinch, yellow summer squash can be used instead. Just make sure to grate and squeeze out the moisture!
Cheeses: Mozzarella gives a stretchy texture, while Parmesan adds a salty kick. If you’re dairy-free, try using vegan mozzarella or nutritional yeast for flavor.
Flour: All-purpose flour works wonderfully. However, you can swap it out for almond flour or gluten-free flour if needed. Keep in mind that the texture may vary slightly.
Eggs: Eggs help bind everything together. For a vegan option, you could try flax eggs: mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 2.5 tablespoons of water and let it sit for a few minutes until it thickens.
How Do I Avoid Soggy Zucchini Breadsticks?
To get crispy, flavorful breadsticks, moisture control is key. After grating the zucchinis, sprinkle them with salt and let them rest for about 10 minutes. This draws out excess moisture, preventing sogginess.
- Use a colander to strain the grated zucchinis, then squeeze out as much water as you can with a kitchen towel or paper towels.
- Ensure the zucchini mixture is mixed well before spreading it in the baking pan, creating a uniform texture.
- Press the mixture down gently but firmly into a flat layer for even cooking.
By keeping moisture in check, you’ll end up with delicious zucchini breadsticks that are crispy on the outside and gooey on the inside! Enjoy!
Easy Cheesy Zucchini Breadsticks
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 medium zucchinis, grated
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (plus extra for topping)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning or dried oregano
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: marinara sauce for dipping
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 25 minutes to bake, making it a quick dish to whip up, perfect for snacking or serving at gatherings!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it heats, you can prepare your baking sheet or rectangular baking pan by lining it with parchment paper or giving it a light greasing—this prevents sticking!
2. Prep the Zucchini:
Grate the zucchinis and place them in a colander. Sprinkle with salt and let sit for about 10 minutes. This step helps draw out extra moisture, making your breadsticks less soggy.
3. Squeeze Out the Water:
After letting it sit, use a clean kitchen towel or several layers of paper towels to squeeze out as much water as possible from the grated zucchini. This step is super important!
4. Make the Mixture:
In a large bowl, combine the squeezed zucchini, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, flour, eggs, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Mix everything together well—it should look like a batter!
5. Spread and Shape:
Spread the zucchini mixture evenly into the prepared baking pan, pressing it down gently to create a flat, rectangular shape about 1/2 inch thick. Try to make it as even as possible for uniform cooking.
6. Add Extra Cheese:
Sprinkle a little more shredded mozzarella cheese over the top for added cheesiness. Who doesn’t love more cheese?
7. Bake:
Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. You want it golden brown on top with melted cheese, and watch the edges for browning!
8. Cool and Cut:
Once baked, take it out of the oven and let it cool for about 5-10 minutes to firm up a bit. Then, cut into rectangular shapes with a sharp knife.
9. Garnish and Serve:
Garnish with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve warm with marinara sauce or your favorite dipping sauce!
Enjoy your cheesy, veggie-packed zucchini breadsticks as a delicious snack or appetizer! They’re sure to be a hit!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Different Vegetables in This Recipe?
Absolutely! While zucchini is the star here, you can substitute it with other grated vegetables like carrots or yellow squash. Just make sure to squeeze out excess moisture as you would with zucchini.
How Can I Store Leftover Breadsticks?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to regain their crispiness.
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Yes! You can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend as a substitute for regular flour. Just be sure to check that your other ingredients (like cheeses) are also gluten-free.
What Can I Serve with Zucchini Breadsticks?
These breadsticks pair wonderfully with marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or a homemade yogurt dip. You could also serve them alongside pasta or a fresh salad for a complete meal!
