Name: Zucchini Garlic Bites Recipe: Delicious and Easy
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 medium zucchinis, grated; ½ teaspoon salt; 1 large egg, beaten; ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese; ¼ cup breadcrumbs; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped; ¼ teaspoon black pepper

I’m excited to share these bite-sized zucchini garlic bites—they’re crisp on the outside, tender on the inside, packed with savory flavor, and incredibly easy to make.

Why I’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it uses simple ingredients I usually have on hand, and it comes together quickly. These bites are great as a snack, appetizer, or even a light lunch. They’re also a fun way to use up extra zucchini and sneak in more veggies.

Ingredients

(Here's a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

2 medium zucchinis, grated
½ teaspoon salt
1 large egg, beaten
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
¼ cup breadcrumbs
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
¼ teaspoon black pepper

Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Zucchini
I grate the zucchinis and sprinkle them with salt. After letting them sit for 10 minutes, I squeeze out the moisture using a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth.

Step 2: Mix the Ingredients
In a large bowl, I combine the drained zucchini, egg, Parmesan, breadcrumbs, garlic, parsley, and pepper. I stir everything together until well combined.

Step 3: Form the Bites
I preheat the oven to 400 °F (200 °C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Using a spoon or my hands, I form the mixture into small balls and place them on the sheet.

Step 4: Bake
I bake the bites for 20–25 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and slightly crispy on the outside.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 16 zucchini garlic bites, depending on how big I shape them. Prep time takes around 15 minutes, and baking takes 20–25 minutes, so everything is ready in about 35–40 minutes total.

Variations

I like to mix things up depending on what I have in the kitchen:

Spicy bites: I add a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat.
Extra cheesy: I stir in shredded mozzarella for a gooey center.
Different herbs: I swap parsley for fresh basil or thyme for a new flavor twist.
Low-carb: I replace breadcrumbs with almond flour.

Storage/reheating

I store leftover bites in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, I place them in a preheated 350 °F (175 °C) oven for 5–10 minutes to get them crispy again. I can also reheat them in the air fryer for a quicker option.

FAQs

Can I freeze zucchini garlic bites?

Yes, I freeze them on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. I reheat straight from frozen in the oven or air fryer.

What can I use instead of Parmesan?

I substitute with other hard cheeses like pecorino or even cheddar if that’s what I have on hand.

Why are my bites falling apart?

I make sure to remove as much moisture as possible from the zucchini before mixing. That really helps the bites hold together.

Can I make them gluten-free?

Yes, I use gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour for a gluten-free version.

How do I make them crispier?

I spray or lightly brush them with oil before baking, and make sure they’re spaced out on the baking sheet so they brown evenly.

Conclusion

These zucchini garlic bites are one of my favorite quick snacks to make. They’re flavorful, easy, and a great way to enjoy zucchini in a totally different way. I like making a big batch because they disappear fast—especially when served warm with a dipping sauce on the side.

Zucchini Garlic Bites Recipe: Delicious and Easy

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Author: Sue
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 16 bites
Category: Appetizer
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

These Zucchini Garlic Bites are crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and bursting with flavor. They make a perfect appetizer, snack, or light meal, and are incredibly simple to prepare with everyday ingredients.

Ingredients

2 medium zucchinis, grated
½ teaspoon salt
1 large egg, beaten
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
¼ cup breadcrumbs
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
¼ teaspoon black pepper

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Instructions

Grate the zucchinis, sprinkle with salt, and let sit for 10 minutes. Squeeze out excess moisture using a cheesecloth or kitchen towel.
In a large bowl, combine the drained zucchini, beaten egg, Parmesan, breadcrumbs, garlic, parsley, and black pepper. Mix well.
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of the mixture and shape into small balls. Place on the baking sheet.
Bake for 20–25 minutes or until golden brown and crispy. Serve hot.