Description

Hot, crispy, and packed with garlicky goodness, these zucchini balls are the ultimate easy finger food snack. Crunchy on the outside and tender inside, they’re perfect for parties, movie nights, or anytime you crave a savory veggie treat.

Ingredients

Scale

2 medium zucchini (about 14 oz), grated
3 garlic cloves, minced
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup plain or Italian-style breadcrumbs (panko preferred)
2 large eggs, beaten
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (optional)
3/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 cup olive oil (for frying)
1/2 teaspoon lemon zest (optional)
Pinch chili flakes (optional)

Instructions

Grate zucchini using a box grater or food processor. Place grated zucchini in a fine mesh sieve or wrap in a clean kitchen towel. Sprinkle with a pinch of salt and let sit for 10 minutes. Squeeze thoroughly to remove excess moisture.
Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a small pan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Do not let it brown. Cool slightly.
In a large bowl, combine squeezed zucchini, sautéed garlic, Parmesan, breadcrumbs, eggs, flour, parsley, Italian herbs, salt, pepper, and optional lemon zest or chili flakes. Mix until evenly combined. If mixture is too wet, add more breadcrumbs.
Form mixture into balls about 1 inch in diameter (18-20 balls). Place on a plate or tray.
Heat remaining olive oil in a deep skillet or frying pan to 350°F. Fry zucchini balls in batches for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown and crisp. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain.
For baked version: Preheat oven to 400°F. Arrange balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet, lightly spray or brush with oil, and bake for 20-25 minutes, turning halfway, until golden and crisp.
Let balls cool for 2-3 minutes before serving. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.

Notes

For best crispiness, squeeze out as much moisture as possible from the zucchini. If mixture is too wet, add extra breadcrumbs. Chill mixture for 10 minutes before shaping for easier handling. Balls can be baked or air fried for a lighter version. Serve with marinara, tzatziki, or spicy mayo. Gluten-free and dairy-free adaptations are possible.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
Category: Appetizer
Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

Serving Size: About 4 balls
Calories: 130
Sugar: 2
Sodium: 350
Fat: 9
Saturated Fat: 2.5
Carbohydrates: 10
Fiber: 2
Protein: 6

Keywords: zucchini balls, crispy zucchini, garlic snack, vegetarian appetizer, finger food, party snack, easy recipe, fried zucchini, baked zucchini balls