Cheesy Garlic Zucchini Bites (Print version)
Golden baked zucchini bites with mozzarella, parmesan, and garlic. A quick vegetarian appetizer ready in about 35 minutes.
# Ingredients:
For the bites
01 -
2 medium zucchini (about 1 lb / 450 g)
02 -
1 cup (100 g) shredded mozzarella cheese
03 -
1/2 cup (50 g) grated parmesan cheese
04 -
1/2 cup (30 g) panko breadcrumbs
05 -
2 large eggs
06 -
3 cloves garlic, minced
07 -
1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
08 -
1/2 tsp salt
09 -
1/4 tsp black pepper
10 -
1 tbsp olive oil, for brushing
# Instructions:
01 -
Shred the zucchini onto a clean kitchen towel using the large holes of a box grater. Sprinkle with the salt, toss gently, and let sit for 10 minutes to draw out moisture.
02 -
Gather the towel around the zucchini and twist it tightly, wringing out as much liquid as possible. The drier the shreds, the crisper the bites.
03 -
In a large bowl, combine the drained zucchini with mozzarella, parmesan, panko, eggs, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and pepper. Mix until the mixture holds together when pressed.
04 -
Scoop heaping tablespoons of the mixture and roll gently into balls or small ovals. Place 1 inch apart on a parchment-lined baking sheet and brush the tops lightly with olive oil.
05 -
Bake at 425°F for 18 to 22 minutes, until the tops are browned and the cheese is bubbling at the edges. Cool for 5 minutes before serving.
# Good to know:
01 -
Best served warm while the cheese is still soft.
02 -
The bites firm up as they cool, so do not worry if they seem soft right out of the oven.