These Easy Homemade Zucchini Breadsticks are a fun twist on traditional breadsticks! Made with fresh zucchini, they are light, tasty, and perfect for snacking or dipping.
Honestly, who doesn’t love a veggie sneaking into snacks? I always feel a bit healthier munching on these! Pair them with marinara sauce, and you’re in for a treat!
It’s super easy to whip up this recipe. Just grate the zucchini, mix in some simple ingredients, and bake! Perfect for those days when you need a quick and delicious snack!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: This is the star of the dish! I use medium-sized zucchini for the best results. If you’re short on zucchini, you can substitute it with other grated veggies like yellow squash or even carrots.
Flour: All-purpose flour works perfectly for this recipe. If you’re gluten-free, try using a gluten-free flour blend, but be aware that textures may vary slightly.
Cheese: Mozzarella gives a lovely stretch, while Parmesan adds a nice flavor boost. You could swap mozzarella for cheddar or any cheese you have. Just keep in mind that the taste will slightly change.
Seasonings: Garlic powder and Italian seasoning add great flavor. Feel free to customize with your favorites, like onion powder or fresh herbs for an extra kick!
How Do I Squeeze the Moisture out of Zucchini Properly?
Removing excess moisture from zucchini is key to crispy breadsticks. Here’s how I do it:
- After grating the zucchini, place it in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth.
- Gather the ends of the towel and twist to squeeze out as much liquid as you can. You’ll be surprised how much water comes out!
- Be thorough—extra moisture can lead to soggy breadsticks, and we want them to be delicious and firm!
Following these tips will ensure your zucchini breadsticks turn out perfectly every time! Enjoy munching on these tasty bites!
Easy Homemade Zucchini Breadsticks
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 medium zucchini (about 1 cup grated)
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 large egg
- ¾ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Optional: marinara sauce for dipping
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe is quick and simple, taking about 10 minutes to prep and 15-18 minutes to bake, so you can have wonderful zucchini breadsticks ready in around 30 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. You can also lightly grease the baking sheet if you prefer.
2. Prepare the Zucchini:
Grate the medium zucchini using a box grater. After grating, place the zucchini in a clean kitchen towel. Gather the ends of the towel and twist it to squeeze out as much moisture as possible. This step is crucial for getting crispy breadsticks!
3. Mix Dry Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Stir them together until they are well mixed.
4. Combine Ingredients:
Now, add the squeezed zucchini, the large egg, shredded mozzarella cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, and olive oil into the dry ingredient mix. Stir everything together until a sticky dough forms. If your dough is too sticky, you can add a little more flour to reach a manageable consistency.
5. Shape the Breadsticks:
Transfer the dough onto your prepared baking sheet. Use your hands or a spatula to shape the dough into breadsticks about 1 inch wide and 4-5 inches long. It’s ok if they don’t look perfect—rustic is charming!
6. Bake the Breadsticks:
Slide the baking sheet into your preheated oven and bake for 15-18 minutes. They should turn golden brown and feel firm to the touch.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Once baked, remove the breadsticks from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. They are best served warm with marinara sauce for dipping, but you can enjoy them plain too!
Enjoy your delicious and healthy zucchini breadsticks fresh from the oven!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Zucchini for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen zucchini, but be sure to thaw it completely and drain off any excess water. It’s essential to remove as much moisture as possible to keep the breadsticks from getting soggy.
How Long Will Leftover Zucchini Breadsticks Last?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through, for the best texture.
Can I Substitute the Cheese?
Definitely! If you don’t have mozzarella or Parmesan, you can use other cheeses like cheddar or gouda. Just keep in mind that the flavor will change slightly, but will still be delicious!
What Dips Pair Well with Zucchini Breadsticks?
Besides marinara sauce, you can dip these breadsticks in ranch dressing, garlic butter, or even tzatziki for a refreshing twist. Feel free to get creative with your favorite dips!
