These Easy Zucchini Breadsticks are a tasty treat that can brighten up any snack time! With fresh zucchini mixed into a soft, cheesy dough, they’re fun to eat and super simple to make.
Honestly, who can resist cheesy bread? They’re the perfect size for dipping! I love pairing them with marinara sauce for an extra splash of flavor—yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: This is the star of the show, adding moisture and nutrition. If zucchini isn’t available, yellow squash works perfectly as a substitute.
Flour: All-purpose flour is great for this recipe, but you can swap in whole wheat flour for an extra nutty flavor and nutrition. Just remember it might change the texture a bit!
Cheese: I recommend using mozzarella for its gooeyness and Parmesan for flavor. If you’re looking for alternatives, feel free to use cheddar or a dairy-free cheese for a lactose-free option.
Egg: The egg is essential for binding the dough. If you’re vegan or allergic to eggs, try using a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water). Let it sit for a few minutes to thicken.
How Do I Prevent My Zucchini Breadsticks from Being Soggy?
Soggy breadsticks can happen if there’s too much moisture from the zucchini. Here’s how to tackle this:
- Grate the zucchini and squeeze it in a kitchen towel to remove excess water. This step is key!
- Also, try not to skip the baking powder; it helps to create a light and airy texture, balancing out the moisture.
- Shape the dough into a rectangle that’s about ¼ inch thick. This promotes even baking, promoting a crispy exterior.
With these tips, you’ll have just the right amount of deliciously soft inside and crispy outside! Enjoy your baking adventure!
Easy Zucchini Breadsticks
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Breadsticks:
- 1 medium zucchini (about 1 cup grated)
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For Garnish and Serving:
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
- Marinara sauce, for serving (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take you about 10 minutes to prep and another 15-18 minutes to bake, so you’ll be enjoying your delicious zucchini breadsticks in around 30 minutes total. Perfect for a quick snack or appetizer!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it heats up, go ahead and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Zucchini:
Grate the zucchini using a coarse grater. To make sure your breadsticks don’t end up soggy, place the grated zucchini in a clean kitchen towel and squeeze it to remove as much excess moisture as you can. This is a really important step!
3. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, garlic powder, and salt. Give it a good mix with a whisk or spoon until everything is well blended.
4. Add Cheeses:
Stir the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese into the flour mixture. This will add delicious cheesy goodness to your breadsticks.
5. Combine Wet Ingredients:
In a small bowl, beat the egg along with the olive oil. This helps to combine everything nicely and adds moisture to the dough.
6. Make the Dough:
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until you have a sticky dough. Then gently fold in the grated zucchini until it is evenly distributed throughout the dough.
7. Shape the Breadsticks:
Turn the dough out onto your prepared baking sheet, shaping it into a rectangle about ¼ inch thick. Try to get it as even as possible for even baking!
8. Score the Dough:
Using a knife or pizza cutter, score the dough into strips about 1 inch wide. This will make it easier to break into breadsticks after baking.
9. Bake:
Place your baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 15-18 minutes, or until the breadsticks are golden brown and cooked through. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning!
10. Cool and Serve:
Once they’re baked, remove the breadsticks from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. You can garnish with chopped parsley for a nice touch, if you like.
11. Dip and Enjoy:
Serve your warm zucchini breadsticks with marinara sauce for dipping. They’re best enjoyed fresh out of the oven, so dig in and enjoy your cheesy, delicious snack!
Happy snacking with your easy zucchini breadsticks — a delightful blend of flavors and textures to brighten your day!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Other Vegetables Instead of Zucchini?
Absolutely! You can substitute zucchini with other grated vegetables like yellow squash, carrots, or even spinach. Just make sure to remove excess moisture to keep the dough from getting soggy.
How Do I Store Leftover Breadsticks?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes to get them warm and crispy again.
Can I Make These Breadsticks Gluten-Free?
Yes! You can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend instead of regular flour. Make sure it contains xanthan gum or add some to help with the texture.
Can I Freeze the Dough?
Yes, you can freeze the dough! Shape it into a rectangle, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and place it in a freezer bag. When you’re ready to bake, thaw it in the fridge overnight before baking as directed.
