These easy zucchini breadsticks are a great snack that the whole family will enjoy! Made with fresh zucchini, cheese, and simple seasonings, they are tasty and fun to eat.
They come out crispy and cheesy, perfect for dipping! I love to serve them with marinara sauce—it’s like having pizza in stick form! 🍕
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: Fresh zucchini is the star here. It’s essential for moisture and flavor. While you can use yellow squash if zucchini isn’t available, the taste will differ slightly.
Cheese: Mozzarella gives a nice gooey texture, while Parmesan adds a bit of sharpness. If you’re looking to reduce calories, consider low-fat cheese or vegan alternatives to keep it lighter but still tasty.
Flour: All-purpose flour works well, but you can use whole wheat flour for a healthier option. If gluten-free is your goal, try gluten-free flour blends designed for baking.
Seasonings: Feel free to adjust the herbs! Fresh herbs like basil or thyme can enhance the flavor beautifully. If you’re out of oregano, Italian seasoning is a great substitute.
How Do I Prevent Soggy Breadsticks?
The key to getting those perfect crispy breadsticks is getting the moisture out of the zucchini. Here’s how:
- Grate the zucchini finely and place it in a clean kitchen towel.
- Twist the towel and squeeze hard to expel as much liquid as possible.
- Make sure to repeat this step if the zucchini looks watery even after the first squeeze.
Getting rid of excess moisture ensures your breadsticks stay crispy and don’t turn into a soggy mess!
How Should I Cut and Serve the Breadsticks?
For best presentation, let your baked breadsticks cool for a couple of minutes before cutting. Use a sharp knife or a pizza cutter for clean edges. Serve warm with marinara sauce for dipping or a sprinkle of extra herbs as a tasty garnish!
Easy Zucchini Breadsticks Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 medium zucchinis, grated and drained
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano or Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes to prepare and around 25 minutes to bake, making a total of about 35 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick and tasty snack!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Prepare a baking sheet by lightly greasing it or lining it with parchment paper or a silicone mat. This prevents the breadsticks from sticking.
2. Prepare the Zucchini:
Grate the zucchinis and place them in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth. Squeeze out as much excess moisture as possible. This is a crucial step to ensure your breadsticks turn out crispy and not soggy!
3. Combine Ingredients:
In a large bowl, mix the drained zucchini, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, flour, egg, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is well combined and forms a dough-like consistency.
4. Shape the Mixture:
Place the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet. Press it down evenly to form a rectangular shape, about 1/2 inch thick. Make sure it’s evenly spread to cook uniformly.
5. Bake the Breadsticks:
Pop the baking sheet into the oven and bake for 15-18 minutes. You’re looking for the edges to turn golden brown. Keep an eye on them to ensure they don’t over-bake!
6. Add More Cheese:
Take the baking sheet out of the oven and sprinkle a little more mozzarella on top. This makes the breadsticks extra cheesy! Return them to the oven for another 5-7 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Cool and Cut:
Once finished, let your breadsticks cool for a few minutes. This will make it easier to cut. Then, slice them into sticks with a sharp knife or a pizza cutter.
8. Garnish and Serve:
Garnish your zucchini breadsticks with freshly chopped parsley or basil for a pop of color and added flavor. Serve warm with marinara sauce or your favorite dipping sauce.
Enjoy your delicious, cheesy, and crispy zucchini breadsticks as a quick and healthy snack!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Easy Zucchini Breadsticks
Can I Use Frozen Zucchini for This Recipe?
It’s best to use fresh zucchini for optimal texture and flavor. However, if you only have frozen zucchini, make sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly to remove excess moisture before using it in the recipe.
How Can I Make These Gluten-Free?
To make gluten-free zucchini breadsticks, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Look for a blend that includes xanthan gum for better texture.
What Can I Serve with Zucchini Breadsticks?
These breadsticks pair wonderfully with marinara sauce for dipping, but you can also serve them with ranch dressing, garlic aioli, or even a spicy salsa for a fun twist!
How Long Can I Store Leftover Breadsticks?
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 about 10 minutes for best results. You can also microwave them, but they might lose some crispiness.
