These easy zucchini breadsticks are a fun and tasty way to enjoy veggies! With fresh zucchini and a sprinkle of cheese, they’re perfect for snacking or as a side dish.
Making them is a breeze! I love how they make my kitchen smell great. Plus, who knew veggies could taste this good? I often serve them with a side of marinara for dipping—yum!
Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: Grated zucchini is a key ingredient for moisture and flavor. You can substitute with yellow squash if that’s what you have on hand. Both provide a similar texture.
Mozzarella Cheese: This cheese melts beautifully, but feel free to swap it with shredded cheddar or even a dairy-free alternative if you’re avoiding dairy.
Parmesan Cheese: Adds a nice sharpness. If you don’t have Parmesan, try Pecorino Romano or a nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option that adds a cheesy flavor.
All-Purpose Flour: This binds the mixture. For a gluten-free version, you can substitute with almond flour or a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
Egg: If you’re vegan or avoiding eggs, a flaxseed egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water) works as a substitute.
How Do I Make Sure My Zucchini Breadsticks Aren’t Soggy?
The key to achieving the perfect texture lies in removing excess moisture from the zucchini. After grating, wring out the zucchini in a clean kitchen towel. This step really helps prevent sogginess and enhances the breadstick’s crispness.
- After grating, let the zucchini sit for about 10 minutes to release more water.
- Use a towel to absorb as much liquid as you can before mixing.
- If the mixture seems too wet after mixing in the other ingredients, adding a bit more flour can help achieve the right consistency.
Another tip is to bake until golden brown. This will help give that nice crispy exterior!
Easy Zucchini Breadsticks
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 medium zucchinis, grated
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 large egg
- Olive oil, for brushing
- Optional: marinara sauce for dipping
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and another 20-25 minutes to bake. In total, you’ll be enjoying these delicious zucchini breadsticks in about 35 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it heats up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or give it a light grease with cooking spray or olive oil.
2. Prepare the Zucchini:
Grate the zucchinis using a box grater or food processor. Once grated, place them in a clean kitchen towel and squeeze out as much excess moisture as possible. This step is important to prevent soggy breadsticks.
3. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the grated zucchini, shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, all-purpose flour, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and the egg. Mix it all together until you have a dough-like consistency where everything is well combined.
4. Shape the Breadsticks:
Take the mixture and shape it into logs, about 1 inch wide and 4-5 inches long. Place these on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each one.
5. Brush with Olive Oil:
Using a brush or a spoon, lightly brush the tops of the breadsticks with olive oil. This will help them get crispy and golden brown while baking.
6. Bake:
Slide the baking sheet into your preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. Keep an eye on them—you want them to be golden brown and firm to the touch.
7. Cool and Serve:
Once baked, remove the breadsticks from the oven and let them cool slightly on the baking sheet. They are best served warm. If you like, enjoy them with a side of marinara sauce for dipping!
Enjoy your crispy, cheesy zucchini breadsticks!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Zucchini for This Recipe?
While fresh zucchini is best for texture, you can use frozen zucchini if needed. Just make sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly to remove excess moisture before grating and using it in the recipe.
How Long Can I Store Leftover Zucchini Breadsticks?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven at a low temperature or in the microwave until warmed through.
Can I Make These Breadsticks Gluten-Free?
Absolutely! You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or almond flour. Keep in mind that consistency may vary slightly, so adjust as needed.
What Other Dipping Sauces Can I Use?
In addition to marinara sauce, these breadsticks pair well with ranch dressing, garlic butter, or even a spicy aioli. Feel free to get creative with your dips!
