Zucchini Garlic Bites Recipe
These Zucchini Garlic Bites are a quick, easy, and healthy snack or side dish featuring crispy, tender zucchini combined with bold garlic and Parmesan. Perfectly baked or pan-fried to a golden finish, they suit any occasion from kid-friendly snacks to elegant appetizers.
- Author: Julia
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
- Total Time: 25-30 minutes
- Yield: About 20 bites 1x
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Main Ingredients
- 2 medium zucchinis, grated
- 2–3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 3/4 cup panko breadcrumbs (or gluten-free breadcrumbs/almond meal for gluten-free option)
- 2 large eggs, beaten (or flax/chia eggs for vegan option)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Prepare the Zucchini: Wash and grate the zucchinis thoroughly. Use a clean kitchen towel to squeeze out as much excess moisture as possible to prevent soggy bites and achieve a crispy texture.
- Mix the Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the grated zucchini, minced garlic, Parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, beaten eggs, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Form Bite-Sized Patties: Using your hands or a spoon, scoop small portions and shape into compact bite-sized patties or balls so they hold together during cooking.
- Cook the Bites: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook the bites for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy. Alternatively, place bites on a baking sheet and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through to ensure even crisping.
- Drain and Serve: Transfer cooked bites to a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce or enjoy plain as a savory snack.
Notes
- Drain zucchini well to ensure crispy bites.
- Use fresh garlic for best flavor.
- Panko breadcrumbs deliver a lighter, crunchier texture than regular breadcrumbs.
- Cook bites in batches to avoid overcrowding and maintain crispiness.
- Serve immediately for best texture and taste.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 bites
- Calories: 120 kcal
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 320 mg
- Fat: 6 g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 12 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 6 g
- Cholesterol: 55 mg
Keywords: zucchini bites, garlic bites, healthy snacks, appetizer, gluten free, vegetarian, quick snack