These Easy Zucchini Breadsticks are a tasty way to enjoy veggies! With grated zucchini, cheese, and just a few spices, they’re baked to golden perfection. Yum!
No fancy skills needed here—just mix, bake, and eat! I love dipping them in marinara sauce. They disappear fast at my house, and I bet they will at yours too! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: This is the star of the show! A medium zucchini gives you about 1 cup when grated. You can substitute with yellow squash if you have that on hand. Both add great moisture and flavor.
Flour: All-purpose flour works best for structure. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, try almond flour or a gluten-free baking blend, but note that the texture may change slightly.
Cheeses: I love using mozzarella for a gooey texture and Parmesan for a flavorful kick. If you’re dairy-free, you can use plant-based cheese alternatives instead.
Herbs: Dried Italian seasoning adds great flavor. Feel free to mix it up with your favorite herbs or add some red pepper flakes for a spicy bite.
How Do I Get the Perfect Texture for Zucchini Breadsticks?
The key to getting the right texture is removing excess moisture from the zucchini. Grating it is easy, but it holds a lot of water. Wrap the grated zucchini in a clean kitchen towel and squeeze until very little liquid comes out. This helps keep your breadsticks from getting soggy.
- Grate the zucchini first and then squeeze out the moisture before mixing it with other ingredients.
- This step is crucial for achieving crispy breadsticks!
Easy Zucchini Breadsticks Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 medium zucchini (about 1 cup grated)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or oregano and basil mix)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for brushing)
- Optional: Marinara sauce for dipping
Time Needed:
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 20-25 minutes to bake, giving you a total time of around 35 minutes from start to finish. Perfect as a quick snack or appetizer!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that your breadsticks bake evenly and become perfectly golden. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Zucchini:
Grate the zucchini using a box grater or food processor. Place the grated zucchini in a clean kitchen towel and squeeze out as much moisture as you can. This step is super important to keep your breadsticks from being soggy.
3. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the grated zucchini, flour, shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, egg, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until fully mixed and it resembles a dough.
4. Shape the Dough:
Transfer your dough onto the prepared baking sheet. With clean hands, press and shape the mixture into a rough rectangle about 1/2-inch thick. You can aim for an even thickness to ensure they bake evenly!
5. Bake the Breadsticks:
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 15-18 minutes, until the edges start to turn golden brown. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning!
6. Cut and Crisp:
Once baked, remove the baking sheet from the oven. With a pizza cutter or sharp knife, cut the baked dough into breadstick shapes, being careful not to break them apart completely. They’ll be easier to pull apart later!
7. Finish Baking:
Brush the breadsticks lightly with olive oil and put them back in the oven for an additional 5 minutes. This will help them crisp up nicely!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Once done, take them out of the oven and let them cool slightly. Serve warm with your favorite marinara sauce for dipping. Enjoy your delicious, homemade zucchini breadsticks!
These breadsticks are not only simple to make, but they also pack in a healthy dose of veggies! Perfect for kids and adults alike.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Other Vegetables Instead of Zucchini?
Yes! You can substitute zucchini with other grated vegetables like yellow squash or even carrots. Just be sure to drain excess moisture as you would with zucchini to maintain the right texture.
How Do I Store Leftover Breadsticks?
Store any leftover zucchini breadsticks in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes until warmed through and crispy again.
Can I Make These Breadsticks Vegan?
Absolutely! To make these breadsticks vegan, substitute the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water, let sit for a few minutes to thicken). You can also use plant-based cheese alternatives.
Do I Need to Peel the Zucchini?
No peeling required! The skin of the zucchini adds a lovely color and nutrients. Just wash it well before grating.
