Easy and Delicious Baked Parmesan Zucchini Sticks Recipe
Looking for a healthy, savory, and simple snack that you can whip up in no time? Baked Parmesan zucchini sticks are your answer! Not only are they delicious, but these crispy treats are a fantastic way to sneak some veggies into your day. They’re perfect as a side dish, appetizer, or just a midday snack. Here’s a straightforward recipe to create savory baked Parmesan zucchini sticks that everyone will love.
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 medium zucchinis
- 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup of breadcrumbs (for a gluten-free option, you can opt for almond flour)
- 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
- 1/2 teaspoon of pepper
- 2 large eggs
Equipment:
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper (for easier cleanup)
- 3 shallow dishes (for dipping and coating)
- Cooling rack (optional, for extra crispiness)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature is crucial for getting those zucchini sticks nice and crispy.
Step 2: Prepare the Zucchini
While the oven heats up, get your zucchinis ready. Wash them thoroughly, and trim the ends off. Then, cut the zucchinis in half, lengthwise, and slice each half into sticks that are about 1/2 inch wide. It’s important to keep these relatively thin to ensure they bake evenly and get that desirable crunch.
Step 3: Mix the Coating
In one of your shallow dishes, mix together the breadcrumbs (or almond flour), grated Parmesan, garlic powder, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. This blend of ingredients is what will give your zucchini sticks their savory, mouth-watering flavor. Feel free to adjust the seasonings to your taste preference.
Step 4: Beat the Eggs
Crack two eggs into another shallow dish and beat them well. This egg wash will help the breadcrumb and Parmesan mixture stick to the zucchini sticks.
Step 5: Coat the Zucchini Sticks
Now, it’s time to coat your zucchini sticks. First, dip a stick into the egg wash, allowing any excess to drip off. Then, roll it in the breadcrumb and Parmesan mixture until it’s fully coated. Place the coated zucchini stick on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Repeat this process with all the zucchini sticks, making sure they are not touching each other on the baking sheet. This ensures they bake evenly and get crispy.
Step 6: Bake
Once all your zucchini sticks are coated and on the baking sheet, put them in the preheated oven. Bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until they’re golden and crispy. Halfway through, you might want to flip them over to ensure they are evenly baked on all sides.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Once your zucchini sticks are beautifully crispy and golden brown, take them out of the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. They’re best served warm, with a side of marinara sauce, ranch, or your favorite dipping sauce.
Additional Tips:
- Spice Things Up: Feel free to experiment with the seasoning for your breadcrumb mixture. Adding things like paprika, onion powder, or even a dash of cayenne pepper can bring a new level of flavor to your zucchini sticks.
- Make it Vegan: For a vegan version, you can substitute the eggs with a flaxseed meal or a ready-made vegan egg wash alternative, and use a plant-based Parmesan cheese.
- Storing: These zucchini sticks are best enjoyed fresh, but you can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat them in an oven or toaster oven to bring back their crunch.
Creating savory baked Parmesan zucchini sticks is that simple! Not only do they make an excellent healthy snack, but this recipe also provides a delightful way to enjoy vegetables. With its crispy texture and flavorful coating, this dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. So, the next time you’re in the mood for a tasty, guilt-free treat, give these baked Parmesan zucchini sticks a try!