Description

These Crispy Zucchini Garlic Bites are a savory and delightful appetizer made with grated zucchini, Parmesan cheese, garlic, and herbs. Baked to golden perfection, they offer a crunchy outside with a moist, flavorful interior. Perfect for parties or a healthy snack, these bites are easy to make and pair wonderfully with dips like marinara or ranch.

Ingredients

Scale

Main 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

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly grease it using cooking spray or olive oil to prevent sticking.
Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the grated zucchini (with excess water squeezed out), breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, eggs, minced garlic, chopped onion, parsley, salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning if using. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are fully incorporated and the mixture is uniform.
Form Bites: Using your hands or a small scoop, shape the mixture into small balls roughly 1 to 1½ inches in diameter. Place these zucchini bites evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet to ensure they cook evenly.
Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes. About halfway through, carefully turn the bites to help them brown evenly and become crispy on all sides. Bake until they turn golden brown and develop a slight crispness on the outside.
Cool and Serve: Once baked, remove the bites from the oven and allow them to cool slightly for a few minutes. Serve warm alongside your choice of marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or any preferred dip for a delicious appetizer experience.

Notes

Make sure to squeeze out as much moisture as possible from the grated zucchini to avoid soggy bites.
Breadcrumbs can be plain or seasoned depending on your flavor preference.
You can substitute fresh parsley with dried parsley if fresh is not available, adjusting quantity accordingly.
Feel free to add extra spices or herbs to customize taste, such as paprika or chili flakes for a bit of heat.
These bites reheat well in the oven or air fryer to retain their crispiness.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Appetizer
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Keywords: zucchini bites, crispy zucchini appetizer, garlic zucchini balls, baked zucchini snacks, vegetarian appetizers