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Zucchini Garlic Bites

Zucchini Garlic Bites

These Zucchini Garlic Bites are the perfect way to transform a summer harvest into a savory, Italian-inspired appetizer. Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, they make a fantastic snack or side dish that the whole family will enjoy.
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Cook Time 15 minutes
Course: Appetizer, Side Dish, Snack
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 26
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup shredded zucchini drained well
  • 1 clove garlic grated fine
  • 1/3 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese grated
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 tablespoons fresh chives chopped (or 1 tablespoon dried)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley chopped (or 1/2 tablespoon dried)
  • 1 teaspoon fresh basil chopped (or 1/2 teaspoon dried)
  • 1 teaspoon fresh oregano chopped (or 1/2 teaspoon dried)
  • 1 pinch salt and pepper
  • Marinara sauce for dipping

Equipment

  • Baking Sheet
  • Box Grater
  • Kitchen Towel

Method
 

  1. Prepare the Oven and Pan: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly coat a large baking sheet with olive oil or non-stick cooking spray, or line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
  2. Remove Zucchini Moisture: Use a box grater to shred the zucchini. Place the shredded zucchini into a clean kitchen towel, roll it up, and twist it tightly to wring out as much liquid as possible. This step is vital for a crispy texture.
    1 cup shredded zucchini
  3. Grate the Garlic: Using the small holes of your box grater or a microplane, grate the garlic clove into a fine paste.
    1 clove garlic
  4. Mix the Ingredients: In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the squeezed zucchini, grated garlic, egg, breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, chives, parsley, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir until all ingredients are thoroughly incorporated.
    1 cup shredded zucchini, 1 clove garlic, 1/3 cup breadcrumbs, 1/4 cup Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese, 1 large egg, 2 tablespoons fresh chives, 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, 1 teaspoon fresh basil, 1 teaspoon fresh oregano, 1 pinch salt and pepper
  5. Shape the Bites: Scoop out approximately one tablespoon of the mixture at a time. Use your hands to pat and roll the mixture into small, uniform balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each one.
  6. Bake to Perfection: Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 15 to 18 minutes. The bites should be golden brown and firm to the touch. Serve them warm with a side of marinara sauce.
    Marinara sauce

Notes

The most important secret to successful Zucchini Garlic Bites is moisture control; if the zucchini is too wet, the bites will be mushy. Always use a lint-free kitchen towel or cheesecloth to squeeze the shredded zucchini until it feels almost dry.