These easy zucchini breadsticks are a tasty way to enjoy veggies! With a soft texture and a hint of cheese, they make a great snack or side dish.
Making them is a breeze! Just mix everything, shape the dough, and bake until they are golden. They’re perfect for sharing, or, let’s be honest, for keeping all to yourself! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: This is the star of the show! A medium zucchini offers about 1 cup when grated. You could substitute with yellow squash if that’s what you have on hand. Just make sure to squeeze out any moisture!
Flour: All-purpose flour works great, but if you’re gluten-free, consider almond flour or a gluten-free blend. It’s a simple swap and will still hold the breadsticks together.
Cheese: I love using mozzarella for its meltiness and Parmesan for flavor. You can switch mozzarella for any melty cheese like cheddar, or skip the cheese for a dairy-free option. Just adjust the flavors accordingly.
Egg: The egg is used as a binder. If you’re vegan or allergic, try using flaxseed meal (1 tablespoon flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) as an egg substitute.
Olive Oil: This adds moisture, but you can swap it for melted butter or a neutral oil like canola if you prefer.
How Do I Prevent Soggy Zucchini Breadsticks?
The key to avoiding soggy breadsticks is getting rid of excess moisture from the zucchini. Here’s how:
- After grating the zucchini, place it in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth.
- Squeeze the towel tightly to remove as much liquid as possible. This ensures your dough isn’t too wet.
Following this step will make your breadsticks fluffy and delicious, rather than overly moist. Trust me, it’s worth the effort!
Easy Zucchini Breadsticks Recipe for Beginners
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 medium zucchini (about 1 cup grated)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh chopped parsley (optional for garnish)
- Marinara sauce for dipping (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 20-25 minutes to bake. In total, you’ll need around 35-40 minutes from start to finish. You’ll have delicious breadsticks ready to enjoy in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While that’s warming up, get your baking sheet ready by lining it with parchment paper or giving it a light greasing.
2. Prepare the Zucchini:
Grate the zucchini using a box grater or food processor. Place the grated zucchini into a clean kitchen towel and squeeze out as much excess moisture as you can. This step is super important to prevent soggy breadsticks!
3. Mix the Dough:
In a mixing bowl, combine the squeezed zucchini with flour, baking powder, salt, garlic powder (if using), mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, and olive oil. Stir everything together until a dough forms. It should be well combined.
4. Shape the Breadsticks:
Take the dough and transfer it onto the prepared baking sheet. Use your hands to shape it into a rectangle that’s about 1/2 inch thick. Make sure it’s even for consistent baking.
5. Cut the Breadsticks:
With a sharp knife or a pizza cutter, slice the rectangle into 8-10 breadstick shapes. You can make them as large or small as you like!
6. Bake:
Pop the baking sheet into the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the breadsticks are golden brown and cooked through. Your kitchen is going to smell amazing!
7. Cool and Garnish:
Once baked, take the breadsticks out of the oven and let them cool slightly. If you like, sprinkle some fresh parsley on top for a nice touch.
8. Serve:
These zucchini breadsticks are best served warm. Enjoy them on their own or pair them with marinara sauce or your favorite dip. Yum!
Enjoy your soft, cheesy zucchini breadsticks—perfect for beginners and sure to please!
FAQ for Easy Zucchini Breadsticks
Can I Use Yellow Squash Instead of Zucchini?
Absolutely! Yellow squash works just as well as zucchini in this recipe. Just make sure to squeeze out any excess moisture, just like you would with zucchini.
What Can I Substitute for Mozzarella Cheese?
You can use any cheese that melts well, such as cheddar or fontina. If you’re looking for a lower-fat option, part-skim mozzarella is a great choice too!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store leftover breadsticks in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to regain their crispiness.
Can I Make These Breadsticks Vegan?
Yes! To make this recipe vegan, substitute the egg with a flaxseed egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) and use a dairy-free cheese alternative if desired.
