These Easy Zucchini Breadsticks are a perfect summer snack! They’re soft, tasty, and packed with fresh zucchini, making them a healthy choice for warm days.
What I love most about these breadsticks is how quick they are to whip up. You just mix, bake, and enjoy! Perfect for a light treat or a fun side dish with lunch. Yum! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: This is the star of the recipe! Grated zucchini adds moisture and nutrition. You can also use yellow squash if you want something different.
Flour: All-purpose flour is great here, but you can use whole wheat flour for a healthier twist. If you need a gluten-free option, try almond flour or a gluten-free flour blend.
Cheese: I love using mozzarella because it melts nicely. You can substitute with cheddar, or if you’re dairy-free, try a vegan cheese that’s meant for melting.
Eggs: They help bind everything together. A flax egg (1 tbsp flaxseed meal + 2.5 tbsp water) can work well as a vegan substitute.
How Do You Get the Right Texture From Zucchini?
Removing excess moisture from zucchini is key for these breadsticks. If you skip this step, they can become soggy. Here’s how to do it well:
- Grate the zucchini first using a coarse grater.
- Then, place it in a clean kitchen towel. Twist the towel to squeeze out as much water as you can.
Doing this helps keep your breadsticks firm and delicious. Trust me, it’s worth the extra effort!
Easy Zucchini Breadsticks
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 medium zucchini (about 1 cup grated)
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (or a mix of oregano, basil, thyme)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 large eggs
- ¼ cup olive oil
- ¼ cup milk
- Optional: Marinara sauce, for dipping
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 18-22 minutes to bake, so you can enjoy these delicious breadsticks in under an hour! They’re perfect for a quick snack or appetizer.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or greasing it lightly. This will help prevent the breadsticks from sticking.
2. Grate and Drain the Zucchini:
Using a coarse grater, grate the zucchini. Then, place the grated zucchini in a clean kitchen towel and squeeze out as much excess moisture as you can. This step is important to ensure your breadsticks aren’t soggy!
3. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, garlic powder, and dried Italian herbs. Whisk them together until well mixed.
4. Combine Wet Ingredients:
In another bowl, beat the eggs. Then, add the olive oil and milk to the eggs and mix well until combined.
5. Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures:
Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Stir until everything is just combined. The batter will be quite thick. Then, gently fold in the drained grated zucchini, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese.
6. Shape the Breadsticks:
Using your hands or a spoon, scoop out portions of the dough, shaping them into 4-5 inch long breadsticks. Place them onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches of space between each one.
7. Bake the Breadsticks:
Pop the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 18-22 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when they are golden brown and slightly firm to the touch.
8. Cool and Serve:
Once baked, remove the breadsticks from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy them warm with marinara sauce on the side for dipping, if desired!
Enjoy these zucchini breadsticks as a healthy and delicious summer snack!
FAQ for Easy Zucchini Breadsticks
Can I Use Different Cheeses?
Absolutely! While mozzarella and Parmesan provide a great flavor and texture, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like cheddar or gouda. For a dairy-free option, there are several vegan cheeses available that melt well!
How Do I Store Leftover Breadsticks?
Store any leftover breadsticks in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes until warmed through.
Can I Make These Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the dough and shape the breadsticks a day in advance. Cover them tightly and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. Just remember to let them sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before baking.
What Can I Use Instead of Eggs?
If you need an egg substitute, you can use a flax egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) or 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce. Both options work well to bind the ingredients together in this recipe!
