Baked Zucchini Appetizer

Crispy, golden, and irresistibly flavorful, this Baked Zucchini Appetizer is the perfect starter or snack that’s both healthy and indulgent! Fresh zucchini sticks are coated in a seasoned Parmesan-breadcrumb mixture, featuring hints of garlic and paprika, then baked to perfection for a satisfying crunch without the excess oil of frying. Ready in just 35 minutes, this quick and easy appetizer is ideal for entertaining or a casual family night. Serve these delectable zucchini fries with a side of marinara sauce for dipping to elevate the flavor even further. Perfectly crispy and loaded with wholesome ingredients, this baked zucchini dish is proof that simple ingredients can create big flavors!

Nutriscore Rating: 59/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:20 mins

Total Time:35 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 3 medium zucchini
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 0.5 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 0.5 teaspoon paprika
• 0.5 teaspoon salt
• 0.25 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 cup marinara sauce (optional, for dipping)

Directions

Step 1

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Lightly grease the parchment paper with olive oil to prevent sticking.

Step 2

Wash the zucchinis thoroughly and pat them dry. Cut off the ends, then slice them into sticks about 3-4 inches long and 1/2 inch thick, resembling French fries.

Step 3

In a shallow bowl, combine breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.

Step 4

In another shallow bowl, beat the eggs until smooth.

Step 5

Dip each zucchini stick into the beaten eggs, letting any excess egg drip off, then coat it in the breadcrumb mixture. Press gently to ensure the breadcrumbs stick well.

Step 6

Place the breaded zucchini sticks on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer, leaving a little space between each stick.

Step 7

Once all the zucchini sticks are coated, lightly drizzle or spray olive oil over them to encourage a golden, crispy finish.

Step 8

Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, flipping the zucchinis halfway through the cooking time to ensure even browning. They should be golden and crispy when done.

Step 9

Remove the zucchini sticks from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving.

Step 10

Serve warm with marinara sauce on the side for dipping, if desired.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	1093.5 grams (1093.5g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1199

Total Fat 44.90g	58%
Saturated Fat 14.90g	75%
Polyunsaturated Fat 1.80g
Cholesterol 412mg	137%
Sodium 10443mg	454%
Total Carbohydrate 157.40g	57%
Dietary Fiber 13.10g	47%
Total Sugars 64.30g
Protein 54.10g	108%

Vitamin D 82IU	410%
Calcium 724mg	56%
Iron 11mg	61%
Potassium 2242mg	48%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 32.3%

Protein: 17.3%

Carbs: 50.4%