If your fridge has a couple of zucchini just hanging out with no plan in sight, I’ve got the perfect solution—zucchini garlic bites! These golden gems are everything we love in a snack: crunchy on the outside, tender on the inside, and bursting with fresh, herby flavor. Whether you’re looking for a quick zucchini appetizer, a healthy snack for the kiddos, or a crowd-pleaser at your next gathering, these little bites check all the boxes.
They’re oven-baked (hello, guilt-free snacking!), made with simple ingredients, and ready in under 30 minutes. Let’s be real—anything that gets us one step closer to a cleaner fridge and a happier belly is a win in my book.
Why You’ll Love These Zucchini Garlic Bites
- A delicious way to use up extra zucchini
- A lighter, baked alternative to fried snacks
- Packed with flavor thanks to fresh herbs and Parmesan
- Quick, easy, and perfect for busy weeknights
Ingredients
- 2 medium zucchini (about 1 lb), shredded
- 2 cloves garlic, grated
- 1 large egg
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh chives
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh basil
- 1 tsp chopped fresh oregano
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp ground black pepper
- Marinara sauce, for dipping
How to Make Zucchini Garlic Bites
- Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or spray it with non-stick spray quickly.
- Grate and Squeeze: Shred your zucchini using a grater. If they’re big, slice them in half and scoop out the seeds first. Then wrap the shredded zucchini in a clean kitchen towel and squeeze like you mean it to remove all that extra moisture.
- Mix It Up: In a bowl, combine the squeezed zucchini with garlic, egg, Parmesan, breadcrumbs, and all those fresh herbs. Season with salt and pepper. Stir it all together until well mixed.
- From the Bites: Scoop about a tablespoon of the mixture and roll into little balls. Place them on your prepared baking sheet, spaced out.
- Bake: Bake for 20-25 minutes, until golden and firm. Let them cool just a bit before serving.
Tips for Perfect Baked Zucchini Bites
- Dry zucchini is happy zucchini. If your zucchini is too wet, the bites won’t hold their shape. Really wring it out!
- Fresh herbs make a difference. Don’t skimp—they bring vibrant flavor to the mix.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan. Give each bite some space to get that crispy edge.
- Love cheese? Add a touch of shredded mozzarella for a gooier inside.
A Personal Bite of the Story
I first made these zucchini garlic bites during a summer garden overload situation. You know how it goes—one day you’re excited about your little zucchini plant, and the next, you’re swimming in squash. I whipped these up as a test run, and they disappeared before they even hit the plate. My kids dipped them in marinara and declared them better than pizza bites. High praise, right?
Since then, they’ve become my go-to for everything from playdates to date nights. They look fancy, but they’re secretly so simple. And they freeze well too—hello, make-ahead magic!
What to Serve with Zucchini Garlic Bites
These bites shine independently, but if you want to round things out, serve them with a crisp side salad or a light pasta. They’re also lovely on an appetizer platter next to olives, cheese cubes, and maybe a little prosciutto. Of course, a bowl of warm marinara for dipping is practically non-negotiable. Want to switch it up? Try ranch or garlic aioli.
How to Store and Reheat
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, pop them back in a 375°F oven for about 8 minutes, or until they’re warm and a little crisp again. They also freeze beautifully! Just arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer to a freezer bag. Reheat it from frozen in the oven—there is no need to thaw.
FAQs
Can I substitute the breadcrumbs?
Yes! You can use almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs for a different texture or dietary need.
Do I have to use all those herbs?
Nope. If you’re missing one, it’s not a deal-breaker. Just use what you have—even dried herbs in a pinch.
Can I make these in an air fryer?
Absolutely. Cook them at 375°F for about 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Final Thoughts on These Zucchini Garlic Bites
Zucchini garlic bites are the kind of feel-good, flavor-packed snack that hits the spot every time. Whether you’re trying to sneak more veggies into your family’s diet or just need a tasty bite to nibble on while binge-watching your favorite show, these are your answer. Fresh, easy, and endlessly versatile—what’s not to love?
Print
Zucchini Garlic Bites That’ll Steal the Show at Any Table
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: About 20–24 bites 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Zucchini garlic bites are crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and packed with herby flavor and Parmesan cheese. Baked, not fried, they make the perfect healthy appetizer or snack. Ideal for using up extra zucchini and loved by kids and adults alike.
Ingredients
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2 medium zucchini (about 1 lb), shredded
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2 cloves garlic, grated
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1 large egg
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½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
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½ cup breadcrumbs
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2 tbsp chopped fresh chives
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1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
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1 tbsp chopped fresh basil
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1 tsp chopped fresh oregano
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½ tsp salt
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¼ tsp ground black pepper
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Marinara sauce, for dipping
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or non-stick spray.
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Shred zucchini. If large, halve and remove seeds first. Wrap in a clean towel and squeeze out excess moisture.
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In a bowl, mix zucchini, garlic, egg, Parmesan, breadcrumbs, herbs, salt, and pepper until well combined.
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Scoop out one tablespoon of the mixture and roll into small balls. Place on the baking sheet.
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Bake for 20–25 minutes until golden and firm. Cool slightly before serving with marinara.
Notes
Really wring out the zucchini—excess water affects shape and texture.
Fresh herbs bring maximum flavor, but dried can work in a pinch.
For extra cheesy bites, add shredded mozzarella.
These freeze well—reheat directly from frozen.
Air fryer option: Cook at 375°F for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American / Italian-inspired