Zucchini Garlic Bites

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s the beauty of this recipe: it uses simple pantry and fridge staples you probably already have.

• 1 cup shredded zucchini (drained well)

  • The star of the dish. Fresh zucchini gives a mild, slightly sweet flavor and keeps the bites moist.

• 1 clove garlic, finely grated

  • Garlic brings bold flavor and depth. Using freshly grated garlic makes a big difference.

• 1/3 cup breadcrumbs (or crushed crackers)

  • Helps bind the mixture and adds texture. You can use regular, panko, or gluten-free breadcrumbs.

• 1/4 cup grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese

  • Nutty, salty, and full of umami — Parmesan makes everything better.

• 1 large egg

  • Essential for binding all the ingredients together.

• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives (or 1 tablespoon dried chives)

  • Chives add a mild oniony freshness. You could also use parsley or green onions.

• Salt & pepper, to taste

  • Enhances and balances the flavors.

• Olive oil spray

  • Helps crisp the outside without frying in heavy oil.

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🥒 Step 1: Preparing the Zucchini

One of the most important steps in this recipe is properly draining the zucchini. Zucchini is over 90% water, and if you skip this step, your bites can turn out soggy instead of crisp.

Here’s how:

1. Grate the zucchini using a box grater or food processor.

2. Place it in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth.

3. Sprinkle a tiny pinch of salt to help draw out moisture.

4. Squeeze out as much liquid as possible.

You’ll be surprised at how much water comes out! After draining, you’ll be left with a smaller, drier pile of zucchini that’s ready to mix.

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🧄 Step 2: Mixing the Ingredients

In a medium bowl, combine the drained zucchini with garlic, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, chives, and seasoning.

The mixture should feel moist but not runny. If it’s too wet, add a tablespoon of extra breadcrumbs. If it feels too dry, you can beat in a small splash of milk or another half egg.

The goal is to create a mixture that holds together when shaped into balls or patties.

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🍴 Step 3: Shaping the Bites

Now comes the fun part! Scoop out a tablespoon of the mixture and roll it into a ball, or shape it into a small patty. You should get about 12–14 pieces from this recipe.

Place the bites onto a parchment-lined baking sheet (or an air fryer basket if you’re using that method).

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🔥 Step 4: Baking or Air Frying

You have two great options here:

• Oven Method: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake the bites for 18–20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and slightly crisp.

• Air Fryer Method: Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Cook the bites for 10–12 minutes, shaking or flipping halfway through, until crispy.

Air frying makes them slightly crispier and faster, but the oven works wonderfully too — especially if you’re making a big batch.

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🌟 Step 5: Serving Your Zucchini Garlic Bites

Now comes the best part: enjoying these delicious little bites!

You can serve them simply as they are, but they really shine when paired with a dipping sauce. Here are some of the best options:

• Classic Marinara Sauce – A rich tomato sauce brings a familiar, comforting flavor.

• Ranch Dressing – Creamy, tangy, and perfect for kids.

• Garlic Yogurt Dip – Mix Greek yogurt with garlic, lemon juice, and herbs for a refreshing dip.

• Spicy Aioli – Mayo mixed with a bit of sriracha or chili paste for heat.

They’re also excellent as a side dish with grilled meats, pasta, or roasted chicken.

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🥗 Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Healthy but Flavorful – Baked, not fried, with fresh veggies and cheese.

2. Kid-Friendly – Even picky eaters love them.

3. Make-Ahead Friendly – You can prep and freeze them for later.

4. Versatile – Great as an appetizer, side dish, or snack.

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🍳 Variations & Creative Twists

Want to switch things up? Here are a few fun ways to customize your zucchini garlic bites:

• Extra Cheesy – Add shredded mozzarella or cheddar for gooey centers.

• Spicy Kick – Mix in red chili flakes, cayenne, or diced jalapeños.

• Mediterranean Style – Add crumbled feta, sun-dried tomatoes, and oregano.

• Protein Boost – Stir in cooked quinoa or finely shredded chicken.

• Low-Carb/Keto Version – Replace breadcrumbs with almond flour or crushed pork rinds.

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🥶 Storage & Freezing Tips

These bites are great for meal prep!

• Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer to crisp them back up.

• Freezer: Freeze uncooked bites on a tray, then transfer to a bag. When ready, bake or air fry directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes.

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🧮 Nutritional Info (Per 1 Bite, Approximate)

• Calories: 45

• Protein: 2g

• Carbs: 3g

• Fat: 2.5g

• Fiber: 0.5g

This makes them a guilt-free snack that fits easily into low-carb or balanced diets.