These Easy Zucchini Breadsticks are a tasty snack that’s perfect for beginners! Made with fresh zucchini, cheese, and a bit of seasoning, they are crispy and delicious.
I love making these when I have extra zucchini. They disappear fast, and I can enjoy them guilt-free—because veggies, right? 😄 You can pair them with your favorite dip too!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchinis: This recipe shines with fresh zucchinis! Look for firm ones. If you can’t find them, yellow squash works too. Both will give you a similar texture.
Parmesan Cheese: Parmesan adds a nice umami flavor. If you need a substitute, try Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast for a vegan option.
Flour: All-purpose flour holds these breadsticks together. You can swap it for whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor, or use almond flour for a gluten-free option. Just remember, it might change the texture slightly.
Cheeses: Besides mozzarella, you could use cheddar or a dairy-free cheese if you prefer. Mixing different cheeses can add fun flavors!
How Do I Get the Zucchini Moisture Out?
Removing excess moisture from the zucchini is key to crispy breadsticks. After grating, twist the zucchini in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth and squeeze hard to get the liquid out.
- Make sure to do this well, or your mixture may end up too wet.
- Don’t skip this step; it’s what prevents soggy breadsticks!
What’s the Best Way to Shape the Breadsticks?
Shaping the breadsticks is simple! Once you place the zucchini mixture on the prepared baking sheet, use your hands or a spatula to spread it into an even rectangle. Aim for about 1/2 inch in thickness—this ensures even cooking.
- Scoring the dough with a knife creates perfect portions!
- But don’t cut all the way through; you want them to hold together until serving!
With these tips and insights, you’re all set to make delicious Easy Zucchini Breadsticks! Happy cooking!
Easy Zucchini Breadsticks
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Zucchini Mixture:
- 2 medium zucchinis (about 2 cups grated)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of dried basil, oregano, and thyme)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For Brushing:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and another 18-20 minutes for baking. In total, you should set aside 35-40 minutes to enjoy these delightful zucchini breadsticks!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). While it heats up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat to prevent sticking.
2. Grate and Drain the Zucchini:
Wash and dry the zucchinis. Using a grater, finely grate the zucchinis until you have about 2 cups. To remove excess moisture, place the grated zucchini in a clean kitchen towel, twist it, and squeeze as hard as you can to get the water out. This step helps ensure your breadsticks stay crispy.
3. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the grated zucchini, flour, Parmesan cheese, mozzarella, egg, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together until a dough-like mixture forms.
4. Shape the Breadsticks:
Transfer the zucchini mixture onto your prepared baking sheet. Using your hands or a spatula, flatten and shape the mixture into a rectangular slab about 1/2 inch thick. Make sure it’s even to help with even cooking!
5. Score and Brush:
Grab a sharp knife and gently score the dough into breadstick shapes, cutting lines without going all the way through. It’ll make breaking apart easier later! Now, brush the top with olive oil, making sure it’s evenly coated for a nice golden color.
6. Bake and Serve:
Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 18-20 minutes, or until the breadsticks are golden brown and set. Once baked, remove them from the oven and let cool for about 5 minutes. Break apart along the scored lines and serve warm!
7. Enjoy!
These zucchini breadsticks are perfect as a tasty snack or party appetizer. They pair wonderfully with marinara sauce or any dip you love. Enjoy your delicious creation!
This easy recipe is perfect for beginners and makes a fun way to incorporate veggies into your snacking routine!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Other Vegetables Instead of Zucchini?
Absolutely! You can substitute zucchini with yellow squash, carrots, or even a mix of finely grated vegetables. Just be sure to squeeze out any excess moisture, similar to how you do with zucchini, to keep the breadsticks crispy.
How Do I Store Leftover Zucchini Breadsticks?
Store any leftover breadsticks in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to regain their crispiness, or you can microwave them for a quick warm-up!
Can I Make These Breadsticks Gluten-Free?
Yes! To make gluten-free breadsticks, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. You might also need to adjust the amount slightly to achieve the right dough consistency.
How Can I Add More Flavor to My Zucchini Breadsticks?
You can spice them up by adding extra seasonings! Try incorporating red pepper flakes, onion powder, or chopped fresh herbs like parsley or basil into the mixture for more flavor. You can also experiment with adding different cheeses!
