Hey there, zucchini lovers! Are you on the hunt for a snack that’s both delicious and good for you? Or maybe you’re trying to sneak some extra veggies into your family’s diet? Well, look no further! My baked zucchini sticks are here to save the day. Seriously, these things are so good, even the pickiest eaters will be reaching for more. I’m going to show you how to make these simple snacks.
Why I’m Obsessed With These Zucchini Sticks
Let’s be real, zucchini can be a little… bland. But when you bake it just right and coat it in a flavorful breadcrumb mixture, magic happens! Here’s why I think you’ll fall in love with this recipe:
- Super Easy: This recipe is so simple. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you just don’t feel like spending hours in the kitchen.
- Healthy-ish: Okay, they’re not exactly a salad, but baking instead of frying cuts down on the grease and calories. Plus, you’re getting a serving of veggies!
- Customizable: Want to add some spice? Or maybe try a different cheese? Go for it! I’ll give you some ideas below.
- Kid-Friendly: My kids devour these things. It’s a great way to get them to eat their vegetables without a fight.
Quick Facts
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Serving Size: 4 people
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need to whip up a batch of these crispy zucchini sticks:
- 2 medium zucchini, washed and cut into sticks
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs (these get extra crispy!)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Let’s Get Baking: Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Prep the Zucchini: Wash your zucchini well and slice off the ends. Then, cut each zucchini into sticks about ½ inch thick.
- Mix the Coating: In a bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Egg Wash: In another small bowl, beat the egg.
- Coat the Zucchini: Dip each zucchini stick into the egg, then dredge it in the breadcrumb mixture, making sure it’s fully coated.
- Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place the coated zucchini sticks on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer. Drizzle with olive oil.
- Bake: Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until the zucchini is tender and the breadcrumbs are golden brown and crispy.
- Cool and Serve: Let the zucchini sticks cool for a few minutes before serving. This helps them crisp up even more.
Serving Suggestions: Dip It Good!
These zucchini sticks are fantastic on their own, but they’re even better with a dipping sauce. Here are a few of my favorites:
- Marinara Sauce: A classic choice that never disappoints.
- Ranch Dressing: Creamy and cool, it’s a hit with kids.
- Garlic Aioli: For a bit of extra flavor, try a homemade or store-bought garlic aioli.
- Spicy Mayo: Mix a little sriracha into your mayo for a kick.
Tips for Customization: Make It Your Own!
- Cheese: Experiment with different cheeses! Asiago, Pecorino Romano, or even a little shredded mozzarella would be delicious.
- Spice: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture for a little heat.
- Herbs: Fresh herbs like parsley, basil, or oregano can add a burst of flavor. Chop them finely and mix them into the breadcrumbs.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs to make this recipe gluten-free.
Nutritional Information (Approximate, per serving)
- Calories: 150-180
- Protein: 7-9g
- Fat: 8-10g
- Carbohydrates: 12-15g
Note: Nutritional information can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.
FAQs: Your Burning Questions Answered
- Can I use regular breadcrumbs instead of panko?
- Yes, you can, but panko breadcrumbs will give you a crispier result.
- Can I make these ahead of time?
- I recommend making them fresh for the best texture, but you can prep the zucchini and breadcrumb mixture ahead of time and store them separately.
- How do I store leftovers?
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat them in the oven or air fryer to crisp them up again.
- Can I freeze these?
- I don’t recommend freezing them, as they can get soggy.
