These Easy Zucchini Breadsticks are a yummy snack that everyone will love! Made with fresh zucchini and simple spices, they are soft on the inside and crispy on the outside.
I like dipping them in marinara sauce for an extra tasty treat. Plus, they’re a great way to sneak in some veggies—no one will even notice! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: Fresh zucchini is the star of this recipe! If you can’t find zucchini, yellow squash works similarly in terms of texture and moisture content.
Flour: All-purpose flour is great here. If you need a gluten-free option, consider using almond flour or a gluten-free baking blend.
Cheese: I love mozzarella for its melty goodness. If you want a sharper flavor, try using cheddar or a blend of cheeses. You could even skip the cheese for a dairy-free version!
Egg: The egg helps bind the ingredients. If you’re vegan or allergic, you can use a flaxseed or chia egg (1 tablespoon flax or chia seeds mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water, let it sit until it thickens).
How Do I Get the Right Consistency for the Dough?
Getting the right texture for the zucchini breadstick dough is crucial! The key lies in removing excess moisture from the zucchini. Here’s how:
- Grate the zucchini, then place it in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth.
- Squeeze hard to release as much water as possible—this step is essential for avoiding soggy breadsticks.
- Combine the remaining ingredients gently to ensure the dough holds together without turning too mushy.
Getting this step right leads to perfectly crispy breadsticks, so don’t rush it! 😊
Easy Zucchini Breadsticks
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Breadsticks:
- 1 medium zucchini (about 1 cup grated)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Cooking spray or additional olive oil for the baking sheet
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes for prep and around 15-18 minutes for baking. Overall, you’re looking at about 30 minutes from start to enjoying your delicious zucchini breadsticks! Perfect for a quick snack or side dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). Then, line a baking sheet with parchment paper and give it a light spray of cooking spray or brush with olive oil to prepare for the breadsticks.
2. Grate the Zucchini:
Wash your zucchini and then grate it using a box grater. Once grated, take the zucchini and put it in a clean kitchen towel. Squeeze it tightly to remove as much moisture as possible—this helps your breadsticks get crispy!
3. Make the Dough:
In a medium bowl, combine the strained grated zucchini with the flour, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, egg, and olive oil. Stir everything together until it forms a dough-like consistency. It should stick together but not be too wet.
4. Shape the Breadsticks:
Take the dough and divide it into around 8 to 10 portions. Roll each portion into breadstick shapes and place them on the prepared baking sheet, making sure to space them apart.
5. Bake:
Pop the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 15 to 18 minutes, or until the breadsticks are golden brown and firm to the touch. Keep an eye on them towards the end to avoid over-baking.
6. Cool and Serve:
Once baked, take them out of the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Serve your zucchini breadsticks warm, with a side of marinara sauce or your favorite dipping sauce. Enjoy your tasty snack!
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While mozzarella and Parmesan are great for flavor and texture, you can substitute them with other cheeses like cheddar or a dairy-free cheese alternative if needed. Just make sure to maintain the cheese consistency for optimal melting!
How Do I Store Leftover Breadsticks?
Store any leftover zucchini breadsticks in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a toaster oven or regular oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes until they’re warm and crispy again. You can also microwave them, though they may lose some crispiness.
Can I Make These Breadsticks Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the dough in advance and keep it covered in the fridge for up to a day. When you’re ready to bake, simply shape them and bake as directed. For longer storage, you can also freeze the unbaked breadsticks, then bake straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time!
What Dipping Sauces Pair Well with Zucchini Breadsticks?
These breadsticks go beautifully with marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or even a garlic aioli. Feel free to get creative—try them with pesto or a tangy yogurt dip for a refreshing twist!
