Ingredients
Method
- Grate zucchini and squeeze out excess moisture using a towel.
- Mix zucchini, garlic, Parmesan, egg, breadcrumbs, parsley, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
- Form mixture into small balls using a spoon or scoop.
- Place balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Let cool slightly and serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce.
Nutrition
Notes
Squeezing out moisture: I cannot stress this enough, really take the time to squeeze every last drop of water out of the grated zucchini.
I once rushed this step and ended up with soggy, flat bites that fell apart.
Wrap the shreds in a clean kitchen towel and wring it tightly, you will be amazed at how much liquid comes out.
Make ahead tip: You can prepare the mixture up to a day in advance and keep it covered in the fridge.
I find the flavors actually meld together beautifully overnight.
Just give it a quick stir before forming the balls, as some liquid may have settled.
Baking sheet spacing: Do not crowd the bites on the baking sheet.
I leave at least an inch between each one so they get nice and golden brown all around.
When they are too close, they steam instead of crisp up.
Cheese variations: I have swapped the Parmesan for pecorino romano when I wanted a sharper, saltier bite.
For a dairy free version, I use nutritional yeast with a pinch of salt, though the texture is slightly less firm.
Freezing instructions: These freeze wonderfully after baking.
I let them cool completely, then pop them in a single layer on a tray in the freezer.
Once frozen solid, I transfer them to a bag and they keep for up to three months.
Reheat directly from frozen in a 375°F oven for about 10 minutes.
Flipping with care: When you flip the bites halfway through baking, use a thin spatula and be gentle.
I have had a few break apart because I was too rough with them.
They are sturdy, but not indestructible.
Serving ideas: My favorite way to serve these is with a simple yogurt dip mixed with lemon juice and a pinch of garlic powder.
They also make a fantastic addition to a salad or as a side with grilled chicken.
