Description
These Cheesy Zucchini Breadsticks are a delicious and healthy snack or appetizer made with fresh grated zucchini, savory cheeses, and Italian seasoning. Baked to golden perfection and topped with melted mozzarella, they offer a flavorful twist on traditional breadsticks while being gluten-free and packed with vegetables.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 cups grated zucchini (about 2 large zucchini)
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ⅓ cup finely shredded Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 cup finely shredded mozzarella cheese (for topping)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 425˚F (220˚C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Grate the Zucchini: Using the large holes of a cheese grater, grate the zucchini. This creates the perfect texture for the breadsticks.
- Remove Excess Moisture: Place the grated zucchini in a clean kitchen towel. Wrap the towel around it and wring out as much water as possible to avoid sogginess in your breadsticks.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained zucchini, ½ cup shredded mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, egg, salt, garlic powder, and dried Italian seasoning. Stir until the mixture is fully incorporated.
- Form the Breadsticks Base: Spread the zucchini mixture on the prepared baking sheet into a flat layer about ½ inch thick, shaping it evenly for uniform baking.
- Bake the Base: Bake the zucchini base in the preheated oven for 15 minutes until it begins to set and lightly browns.
- Add Cheese Topping: Remove the baking sheet from the oven and evenly sprinkle the remaining 1 cup shredded mozzarella over the baked zucchini layer.
- Final Bake: Return the baking sheet to the oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese topping has melted and is bubbly.
- Cool and Serve: Take the breadsticks out of the oven and let them stand for 3 to 4 minutes to cool slightly and firm up before cutting.
- Cut and Serve: Slice the baked zucchini into breadstick shapes and serve warm for a tasty appetizer or snack.
Notes
- Be sure to remove as much moisture from the zucchini as possible to prevent the breadsticks from becoming soggy.
- You can add your favorite herbs like fresh basil or oregano for additional flavor.
- These breadsticks are best served warm but can be reheated in the oven to regain crispiness.
- For a gluten-free diet, this recipe is naturally suitable as it contains no flour.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator up to 3 days and reheat before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
