Zucchini Garlic Bites are a delicious and healthy appetizer. Made with fresh zucchini, garlic, and a blend of aromatic herbs, these bites are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. To prepare, preheat the oven to 400°F, grate the zucchini and garlic, and mix with breadcrumbs, parmesan, egg, and herbs. Shape into small balls and bake until golden. Serve warm with marinara sauce. These bites are perfect for parties or as a nutritious snack. Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat in the oven.
Introducing Zucchini Garlic Bites, a delicious and healthy appetizer that's perfect for any occasion. These tasty bites are made with fresh zucchini, garlic, and a blend of aromatic herbs, creating a delightful snack that's crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. Whether you're hosting a party or looking for a nutritious snack, these Zucchini Garlic Bites are sure to be a hit. Let's take a closer look at the ingredients that make this dish so special.
INGREDIENTS
- 1 cup shredded zucchini, drained well: Provides a tender base for the bites, ensuring they are moist but not soggy.
- 1 clove garlic, grated fine: Adds a rich, aromatic flavor to the bites.
- 1/3 cup breadcrumbs: Helps bind the mixture together while adding a slight crunch.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese: Brings a savory, umami flavor that enhances the overall taste.
- 1 large egg: Acts as a binder, ensuring the bites hold their shape.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives (or 1 tablespoon dried chives): Adds a mild onion-like flavor.
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (or 1/2 tablespoon dried): Adds a fresh, herby note.
- 1 teaspoon chopped fresh basil (or 1/2 teaspoon dried): Infuses the bites with a sweet, aromatic flavor.
- 1 teaspoon chopped fresh oregano (or 1/2 teaspoon dried): Adds a hint of earthiness and depth of flavor.
- Pinch of salt and pepper: Enhances all the other flavors in the dish.
INSTRUCTIONS
- Step 1: Preheat
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly coat a baking sheet with olive oil or non-stick spray. Set aside.
- Step 2: Prepare the zucchini
- Use a box grater to grate the zucchini into a clean towel. Roll up the towel and twist to wring out the moisture. This ensures the bites will be crispy and not soggy.
- Step 3: Grate the garlic
- Grate the garlic using the small holes on the box grater. This helps distribute the garlic flavor evenly throughout the bites.
- Step 4: Mix ingredients
- Add the shredded zucchini, garlic, egg, breadcrumbs, parmesan, chives, parsley, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper to a medium bowl. Mix well to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
- Step 5: Shape the bites
- Shape a tablespoon of the mixture into your hands, pat into small balls, and place on the prepared baking sheet.
- Step 6: Bake
- Bake for 15-18 minutes in the preheated oven until golden. Serve warm with marinara sauce. Recipe makes about 16 bites.
Serving and Storage Tips
Serve Zucchini Garlic Bites warm with a side of marinara sauce for dipping. They make a great appetizer for parties or a healthy snack for any time of the day. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 5-7 minutes to regain their crispiness.
Helpful Notes
For added flavor, you can experiment with different herbs and spices. Try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper for a bit of heat or some finely chopped rosemary for an aromatic twist. Renowned chef Ina Garten suggests using freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese for the best flavor. She says, "The quality of your ingredients makes all the difference."
If you're looking for a gluten-free option, substitute the breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs. Additionally, you can make these bites in advance and freeze them. Simply prepare the bites, place them on a baking sheet, and freeze. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. When ready to eat, bake them directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.