Transform your zucchini into a delicious and healthy snack without the added oil from frying. This easy recipe for Baked Zucchini Sticks paired with a refreshing Yogurt Dipping Sauce is perfect for a light appetizer or a healthy snack.
Ingredients:
- 4 medium zucchini
- Olive oil
- 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup of breadcrumbs
- Salt
- Oregano
- Basil
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 200 degrees Celsius (392 degrees Fahrenheit).
- Prepare the baking sheet: Line it with parchment paper.
- Prepare the zucchini: Cut the zucchini into sticks or spears.
- Season: In a large bowl, toss the zucchini with olive oil, salt, oregano, basil, and minced garlic.
- Coat: Mix the breadcrumbs with grated Parmesan cheese and roll the zucchini sticks in this mixture to coat.
- Arrange: Spread the zucchini sticks on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer, ensuring they don’t touch.
- Bake: For 15 minutes, or until golden brown and tender.
- Broil (optional): For extra crispiness, broil the zucchini sticks for a minute or two after baking.
Yogurt Dipping Sauce:
- 1 cup of plain yogurt
- Salt
- Pepper
- 1 clove of garlic, minced
- Chopped coriander
Sauce Preparation:
- In a small bowl, whisk together yogurt, salt, pepper, minced garlic, and coriander.
Tips:
- Cheese alternatives: If you don’t have Parmesan, try using another type of hard cheese like cheddar or Gruyere.
- Spice variations: Feel free to add other spices to the breadcrumb mixture, such as paprika or chili powder, to spice things up.
- Vegan option: For a vegan dipping sauce, substitute regular yogurt with vegan yogurt or cashew cream.
Serve the zucchini sticks warm with the yogurt dipping sauce for dipping. Enjoy a delightful snack that’s both satisfying and guilt-free!
Serving Suggestions:
Baked Zucchini Sticks make a versatile side dish that complements a wide array of main courses. Whether you’re serving them alongside a juicy steak, a light seafood platter, or as part of a vegetarian meal, their crispy texture and savory flavor elevate the dining experience. They are perfect for dipping into an assortment of sauces, from classic marinara to a creamy garlic aioli, or even a spicy chipotle sauce, allowing for customization based on personal taste preferences. Additionally, they can be included in a party platter or served as a healthy option at gatherings, ensuring guests have a delicious yet nutritious choice.
Nutrition Information:
Zucchini, the main ingredient in Baked Zucchini Sticks, is not only low in calories but also a good source of dietary fiber, which promotes healthy digestion and offers a feeling of fullness with fewer calories. It is rich in vitamins A and C, which are essential for good vision and a robust immune system, respectively. Olive oil, used for its heart-healthy fats, contributes to cardiovascular health. Parmesan, a lower-lactose cheese, provides both flavor and calcium for bone strength. Each serving of these zucchini sticks is a low-carb, vitamin-packed delight that fits well into balanced eating plans, including ketogenic and low-calorie diets. For those monitoring their gluten intake, swapping traditional breadcrumbs for a gluten-free alternative makes this dish suitable for gluten-sensitive diets.