These Easy Zucchini Breadsticks are a fun and tasty snack! Made with fresh zucchini and a few simple ingredients, they are cheesy, crispy, and perfect for dipping.
Who knew veggies could be so fun? I love to pair them with marinara sauce for an extra kick. Just be careful, they disappear fast—everyone wants a second helping! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: Fresh zucchini is crucial here for texture and moisture. If zucchini isn’t available, you can try using yellow squash or even carrots for a different twist!
Cheese: Mozzarella gives a great melt and stretch, but feel free to use any cheese you like. I personally enjoy using a mix of mozzarella and cheddar for added flavor. If you’re avoiding dairy, a vegan cheese substitute can also work.
Flour: All-purpose flour is the base here, but whole wheat flour or almond flour can be good alternatives, especially for a healthier option or gluten-free diet.
Egg: The egg helps bind everything together. If you’re vegan or need an egg substitute, consider using a flax egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 2.5 tablespoons water) or unsweetened applesauce.
How Do I Prevent My Breadsticks from Being Soggy?
Preventing soggy breadsticks mainly comes down to getting the moisture out of the zucchini. After grating, wrap the zucchini in a clean towel and squeeze firmly to release as much liquid as possible. This step is key!
- After squeezing, you should be left with a dry mix to incorporate into your dough.
- Don’t skip the baking time. Giving them that extra time to crisp up at the end is well worth it!
Easy Zucchini Breadsticks
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Breadsticks:
- 2 medium zucchinis (about 2 cups grated)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 large egg
- Cooking spray or olive oil for greasing
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes for prep and around 30 minutes in total baking time. So, you can enjoy these delicious zucchini breadsticks in about 40 minutes from start to finish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This is an important step to ensure your breadsticks bake perfectly. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it so that your breadsticks don’t stick.
2. Prepare the Zucchini:
Grate the zucchinis using a box grater or a food processor. Place the grated zucchini in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth and squeeze out as much moisture as possible. This is key for avoiding soggy breadsticks!
3. Combine the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, mix together the grated zucchini, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, flour, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Make sure everything is well combined.
4. Add the Egg:
Crack the egg into the mixture and stir everything together until a dough forms. It should be sticky yet hold together well.
5. Shape the Dough:
Transfer the dough onto the prepared baking sheet. Using your hands, spread and shape it into a rectangle about 1/2 inch thick. Don’t worry if it’s not perfect—it will look great after baking!
6. First Bake:
Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 15 minutes. Keep an eye on it, as you want the edges to start turning golden.
7. Cut into Stick Shapes:
Once baked, remove the baking sheet from the oven. Using a sharp knife, gently cut the rectangle into breadstick-sized strips. It’s okay if they’re a bit messy.
8. Second Bake:
Return the baking sheet to the oven and bake for an additional 10-12 minutes. You want the breadsticks to become golden brown and crispy. Yes, the aroma will be amazing!
9. Cool and Serve:
Let the breadsticks cool for a few minutes before serving. They’re delicious on their own, but I love to dip them in marinara sauce or your favorite dip!
These Easy Zucchini Breadsticks are a wonderful way to sneak in some veggies, and they make for a fantastic snack or appetizer. Enjoy! 🌟
FAQ About Easy Zucchini Breadsticks
Can I Use Other Vegetables Instead of Zucchini?
Absolutely! While zucchini is the star here, you can experiment with other grated vegetables like yellow squash or even carrots. Just be sure to squeeze out the moisture to keep your breadsticks crispy!
How Can I Make These Breadsticks Gluten-Free?
To make gluten-free zucchini breadsticks, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. You might need to adjust the amount slightly, so start with a little less and add as needed to achieve the right dough consistency.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers 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 a few minutes to restore their crispiness. Microwaving can make them a bit soggy, so use the oven if you can!
Can I Add Other Flavorings or Ingredients?
Absolutely! Feel free to add chopped herbs like basil or parsley for extra flavor. You can also toss in some red pepper flakes for a spicy kick or even some cooked bacon bits for a savory twist. Get creative!
