These Easy Zucchini Breadsticks are a fun and tasty snack! Made with fresh zucchini, cheese, and a hint of herbs, they are soft inside and crispy outside. Perfect for dipping!
I love serving these with a side of marinara sauce. They disappear fast at my house! Give them a try—who knew veggies could taste this good! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: Fresh zucchini is the star here! You can also use yellow squash for a slightly different flavor. If zucchini is not available, try using grated carrots, but keep in mind they will alter the taste and color.
Flour: All-purpose flour is standard, but whole wheat flour can be a healthier option. For a gluten-free version, use almond flour or gluten-free all-purpose flour—just adjust the quantity as needed to achieve the right dough consistency.
Cheese: Mozzarella adds stretchiness and flavor. Parmesan gives a nice salty bite. If you want to make it dairy-free, try using nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the cheese.
Egg: The egg helps bind everything together. If you’re vegan or egg-free, use a flax egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) as a substitute.
How Do I Ensure My Zucchini Breadsticks Aren’t Soggy?
To avoid soggy breadsticks, removing excess moisture from the zucchini is crucial. Here’s how to do it perfectly:
- After grating the zucchini, wrap it in a clean kitchen towel.
- Squeeze it firmly over the sink to drain out as much liquid as possible. This step makes a big difference!
- Let the grated zucchini sit for a few minutes to help drain even more moisture before mixing it with the other ingredients.
By following these tips, your zucchini breadsticks will be crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside! Happy baking!
Easy Zucchini Breadsticks
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 medium zucchinis (about 2 cups grated)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or mix of dried oregano, basil, and thyme)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Olive oil, for brushing
- Optional: marinara sauce for dipping
How Much Time Will You Need?
This easy recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 25 minutes to bake, totaling around 35 minutes. Perfect for a quick snack or appetizer!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This will help your breadsticks become nice and crispy! Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or give it a light grease so they don’t stick.
2. Prepare the Zucchini:
Grate the zucchinis using a box grater or food processor. Place the grated zucchini in a clean kitchen towel, then twist the towel and squeeze it to remove as much moisture as you can. This step is super important to keep your breadsticks from getting soggy!
3. Make the Dough:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the grated zucchini with flour, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until a thick dough forms. It should be well combined but still a little sticky.
4. Shape the Breadsticks:
Transfer the dough onto your lined baking sheet. Using your hands or a spatula, press the dough into a rectangle that’s about 1/2 inch thick. Don’t worry about making it perfect!
5. Bake the Dough:
Lightly brush the top of the dough with olive oil—this will help it brown nicely. Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes, or until the edges start turning golden brown.
6. Cut and Finish Baking:
Once out of the oven, carefully cut the rectangle into stick shapes using a pizza cutter or knife. Return the cut breadsticks to the oven and bake for another 10 minutes, until they’re firm and golden brown.
7. Cool and Serve:
Let the breadsticks cool down for a few minutes, then serve them warm with marinara sauce for dipping if you like. Enjoy your delicious and easy zucchini breadsticks!
FAQ for Easy Zucchini Breadsticks
Can I Use Frozen Zucchini for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen zucchini, but make sure to thaw and drain it well first. Squeeze out as much moisture as possible, just like you would with fresh zucchini, to keep the breadsticks from becoming soggy.
How Do I Store Leftover Breadsticks?
Store any leftover zucchini breadsticks in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to regain their crispy texture.
Can I Add Other Ingredients to the Dough?
Absolutely! Feel free to add chopped herbs like fresh basil or parsley, or even mix in some diced bell peppers or spinach for extra flavor and nutrition. Just be mindful of adding too much moisture from additional veggies.
What Can I Use Instead of Egg?
If you’re looking for an egg substitute, you can use a flax egg (1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water, let it sit for a few minutes), or about 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce. These will help bind the ingredients together without the egg.
