Description

These crispy garlic zucchini balls are a quick and easy veggie snack, packed with flavor from fresh herbs, garlic, and cheese, all wrapped in a crunchy breadcrumb coating. Perfect for parties, meal prep, or a healthy side, they’re endlessly adaptable and always a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

Scale

2 medium zucchini (about 14 oz), grated
1 teaspoon salt
2 large eggs, lightly beaten
3 garlic cloves, minced
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup shredded mozzarella (optional)
1/4 cup finely chopped fresh parsley (or basil)
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 cup panko breadcrumbs
1/2 cup regular breadcrumbs
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Cooking spray or 2 tablespoons olive oil
Optional: chili flakes, cilantro or dill, vegan cheese, gluten-free panko, flax eggs (1 tbsp ground flax + 2.5 tbsp water per egg)

Instructions

Grate zucchini using a box grater or food processor. Sprinkle with salt and let sit for 10 minutes.
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Transfer salted zucchini to a fine mesh strainer, cheesecloth, or kitchen towel. Squeeze out as much liquid as possible.
In a large bowl, combine squeezed zucchini, eggs, garlic, Parmesan, mozzarella (if using), parsley, oregano, and pepper. Stir until evenly combined. If mixture is very wet, add 1-2 tablespoons breadcrumbs.
In a separate bowl, mix panko, regular breadcrumbs, and garlic powder.
Use a small scoop or tablespoon to portion out the zucchini mixture. Roll each into a ball (about 1.5-inch diameter).
Roll each ball in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to coat all sides. Place on the lined baking sheet, spaced apart.
Spray balls lightly with cooking spray or drizzle with olive oil.
Bake for 20-25 minutes, turning halfway, until golden brown and crispy.
Let cool for 5 minutes on a wire rack before serving.

Notes

Squeeze zucchini thoroughly for best texture. For gluten-free, use GF breadcrumbs. For vegan, use flax eggs and vegan cheese. Air-fryer method: 375°F for 15-18 minutes. Chill mixture before shaping for firmer balls. Serve with yogurt dip, marinara, or ranch. Freeze leftovers and reheat in oven or air-fryer.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Snack
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: About 4 balls
Calories: 110
Sugar: 2
Sodium: 350
Fat: 6
Saturated Fat: 2
Carbohydrates: 10
Fiber: 2
Protein: 4

Keywords: zucchini balls, veggie snack, crispy, garlic, baked, vegetarian, party food, healthy, easy, appetizer