Cheesy Zucchini Breadsticks

Craving cheesy bread, but you’re on a low-carb or keto diet? My recipe for Cheesy Zucchini Breadsticks hits the spot without compromising good nutrition. These delightful sticks are perfect for appetizers, snacks, or even as a side dish. With their crispy edges and cheesy goodness, they’re sure to please everyone, regardless of dietary preferences.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Low-Carb Delight: Enjoy the flavors of traditional breadsticks while staying within your carb limit.
• Quick and Easy: With a prep time of just 20 minutes, these breadsticks are perfect for busy weeknights.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve them as an appetizer, snack, or alongside your favorite pasta dishes.
• Kid-Friendly: Kids will love the cheesy flavor and fun stick shape; it’s an easy way to sneak in some veggies!
• Customizable Toppings: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses for the topping to suit your taste.

Tools and Preparation

To make Cheesy Zucchini Breadsticks, you’ll want to gather a few essential tools. Having the right equipment makes cooking more efficient and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking dish
• Grater
• Mixing bowl
• Baking parchment

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking Dish: A good baking dish ensures even cooking and browning of your zucchini mixture.
• Grater: Using a fine grater helps achieve the perfect texture for the zucchini, making it easier to incorporate into the dough.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create those delicious Cheesy Zucchini Breadsticks:

For the Base

• 4 cup Grated Zucchini
• 1/2 cup Mozzarella Cheese
• 1/3 cup Parmesan Cheese
• 1 Egg
• 1 tsp Garlic Parsley Salt

For Topping

• 1 cup Grated Cheese of Choice (topping)

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Cheesy Zucchini Breadsticks

Step 1: Prepare the Zucchini

Squeeze all of the juices you can out of the grated zucchini. This step is crucial for achieving a crispy texture. You can use a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth to wring out excess moisture.

Step 2: Mix Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine together:
* Grated zucchini
* Mozzarella cheese
* Parmesan cheese
* Egg
* Garlic parsley salt

Stir until everything is well blended.

Step 3: Spread Mixture in Baking Dish

On a lined baking dish, spread out the zucchini mixture evenly. Aim for a thin layer, about half an inch thick. This helps it crisp up nicely while baking.

Step 4: Bake Initial Layer

Bake at 425°F (220°C) for 15 minutes. This step creates a firm base for your breadsticks.

Step 5: Add Toppings

After the initial baking time, remove from oven and top with your choice of grated cheese. I recommend using mozzarella or Mexican blend cheese for extra flavor.

Step 6: Final Bake

Return to oven and bake for an additional 2-5 minutes until the cheese melts and is golden brown.

Step 7: Slice and Serve

Once done, slice into sticks and serve immediately while still hot. Enjoy those cheesy bites!

How to Serve Cheesy Zucchini Breadsticks

Cheesy Zucchini Breadsticks are not just a delicious appetizer; they can be served in various ways to enhance your dining experience. Here are some creative serving suggestions that will elevate this dish.

As a Snack

• Perfect for Game Day: These breadsticks make an excellent finger food for watching your favorite sports event.
• Quick Afternoon Treat: Enjoy them with a dipping sauce for a satisfying snack between meals.

With Dipping Sauces

• Marinara Sauce: Pair your cheesy breadsticks with warm marinara for a classic Italian flavor.
• Ranch Dressing: A cool ranch dressing adds a creamy contrast that complements the cheesiness well.

As a Side Dish

• Accompanying Salads: Serve alongside a fresh salad to balance out the richness of the cheese.
• With Soup: These breadsticks go perfectly with a bowl of hearty tomato or vegetable soup.

How to Perfect Cheesy Zucchini Breadsticks

To make your Cheesy Zucchini Breadsticks even better, follow these simple tips. Each one will help you achieve that perfect texture and flavor.

• Use Fresh Zucchini: Fresh zucchini yields the best taste and moisture content, enhancing the overall flavor of the breadsticks.
• Squeeze Excess Moisture: Make sure to remove as much liquid as possible from the grated zucchini to avoid soggy breadsticks.
• Spread Evenly: When laying out the mixture on the baking dish, ensure it’s spread evenly for consistent cooking and crispiness.
• Watch Your Cheese Melting: Keep an eye on the cheese during its final bake; you want it golden brown but not burnt.

Best Side Dishes for Cheesy Zucchini Breadsticks

Cheesy Zucchini Breadsticks pair wonderfully with various side dishes. Here are some options to consider for a complete meal.

1. Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad with crisp romaine and creamy dressing complements the cheesy flavors perfectly.
2. Garlic Butter Shrimp: Juicy shrimp sautéed in garlic butter add protein and richness to your meal.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted until caramelized provide a colorful and nutritious side.
4. Stuffed Peppers: Flavorful stuffed peppers add heartiness and can be filled with grains or meat as desired.
5. Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil create a refreshing contrast to the rich breadsticks.
6. Creamy Tomato Soup: This comforting soup pairs beautifully with cheesy bread, making every bite delightful.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your Cheesy Zucchini Breadsticks turn out perfectly, avoid these common mistakes.

• Not draining the zucchini properly: Failing to remove excess moisture from the grated zucchini can lead to soggy breadsticks. Squeeze the zucchini well before mixing it with other ingredients.
• Using too much cheese: While cheese adds flavor, using excessive amounts can make the breadsticks greasy. Stick to the recommended amounts for a balanced taste.
• Overbaking the crust: Baking for too long can cause the bottom to burn. Keep an eye on your breadsticks and remove them as soon as they turn golden.
• Skipping the parchment paper: Not lining your baking dish can lead to sticking and tearing when you try to slice them. Always use parchment paper for easy removal.
• Ignoring thickness: Spreading the mixture too thickly will result in uneven cooking. Aim for about half an inch in thickness for even crispiness.

Refrigerator Storage

• Duration: Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Containers: Use an airtight container to maintain freshness.

Freezing Cheesy Zucchini Breadsticks

• Duration: These breadsticks can be frozen for up to 2 months.
• Containers: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then place in a freezer-safe bag or container.

Reheating Cheesy Zucchini Breadsticks

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and bake for about 10 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 30-45 seconds, but this may make them softer.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes on each side until warmed up.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Cheesy Zucchini Breadsticks?

Cheesy Zucchini Breadsticks are a low-carb alternative to traditional breadsticks made primarily from grated zucchini and cheese, making them both delicious and nutritious.

How do I make Cheesy Zucchini Breadsticks crispy?

To achieve crispiness, ensure you drain excess moisture from the zucchini and spread the mixture thinly on the baking sheet before baking.

Can I customize my Cheesy Zucchini Breadsticks?

Absolutely! You can add herbs, spices, or different types of cheeses according to your taste preferences for added flavor.

Are Cheesy Zucchini Breadsticks suitable for meal prep?

Yes! They store well in the fridge or freezer, making them a great option for meal prep or quick snacks throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

Cheesy Zucchini Breadsticks are not only delightful but also offer great flexibility when it comes to customization. Whether you’re following a low-carb diet or just looking for a tasty snack, these breadsticks fit perfectly into any meal plan. Try experimenting with various toppings or spices to make them your own!

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Cheesy Zucchini Breadsticks

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Pin Recipe

Craving a cheesy snack that aligns with your low-carb or keto lifestyle? Cheesy Zucchini Breadsticks are the answer! These flavorful breadsticks combine the delightful taste of cheese with the nutritious goodness of zucchini, making them a guilt-free treat. With crispy edges and a cheesy center, they’re perfect as appetizers, snacks, or side dishes. Quick to whip up in just 20 minutes, this recipe is not only simple but also customizable—add your favorite cheeses or spices to make them uniquely yours. Kids will love their fun shape, and you can feel good about sneaking in some veggies!

• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: About 8 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 cups grated zucchini
• 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese
• 1/3 cup parmesan cheese
• 1 egg
• 1 tsp garlic parsley salt
• 1 cup grated cheese of choice (for topping)
• Fresh parsley (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Squeeze excess moisture from the grated zucchini using a clean kitchen towel.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine the drained zucchini, mozzarella cheese, parmesan cheese, egg, and garlic parsley salt until well blended.
4. Spread the mixture evenly in a lined baking dish to about half an inch thick.
5. Bake for 15 minutes until firm.
6. Remove from oven and top with your choice of grated cheese.
7. Return to oven for an additional 2-5 minutes until the cheese is melted and golden brown.
8. Slice into sticks and serve hot.

• Author: Natalia
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 breadstick (approx. 60g)
• Calories: 110
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 250mg
• Fat: 7g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 2g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 5g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 7g
• Cholesterol: 40mg

Keywords: For extra flavor, experiment with different cheeses like cheddar or pepper jack. Serve with marinara sauce or ranch dressing for delicious dipping options. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.