Go Back
Discover the delightful world of crispy snacks with our Crispy Cheddar Garlic Zucchini Strings recipe. This dish perfectly balances the savory richness of cheddar cheese with the fresh, garden-like taste of zucchini, making it an ideal appetizer or snack. Whether you’re looking to impress guests at a gathering or simply enjoy a healthier treat at home, these zucchini strings are easy to prepare and deliciously satisfying. In this article, we will guide you through the process of creating this mouthwatering dish, breaking it down into manageable steps, while also sharing some background on the health benefits and versatility of zucchini.

Crispy Cheddar Garlic Zucchini Strings

Indulge in the fresh flavors of spring with our Crispy Cheddar Garlic Zucchini Strings, the perfect treat for your Easter brunch or any cozy gathering. This easy, quick recipe combines the savory crunch of cheddar with garden-fresh zucchini, making it a delightful appetizer or snack. Enjoy a healthier twist on your favorite fried snacks that everyone will love. Try it tonight or save this recipe for later; its sure to be a hit!
Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients
  

2 medium zucchinis

1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided

1/2 cup all-purpose flour

1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs (for extra crunch)

2 large eggs

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1 teaspoon paprika

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Cooking spray or a light drizzle of olive oil

Fresh parsley or chives, finely chopped (for garnish)

Instructions
 

Prep the Zucchini: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Wash the zucchinis thoroughly and cut off the ends. Using a vegetable peeler or a julienne peeler, slice the zucchinis into long, thin strands. Place these zucchini strings into a colander and sprinkle with a light layer of salt. Allow them to rest for about 15 minutes, which will help to draw out excess moisture.

    Prepare the Coating: In a shallow bowl, mix together the flour, paprika, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper until well combined. In a separate bowl, crack the eggs and whisk them thoroughly until the yolks and whites are fully blended. In a third bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, minced garlic, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese, mixing well.

      Coat the Zucchini: After 15 minutes, rinse the zucchini strings under cold running water to wash away the salt. Pat them dry gently with paper towels to remove as much moisture as possible—this step is crucial to achieving crispy strings.

        Breading Process: Take each zucchini string and first coat it in the flour mixture, ensuring it is completely covered. Next, dip the string into the egg mixture, allowing any excess to drip off. Finally, dredge the zucchini in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure the crumbs adhere well.

          Bake the Strings: Place a wire rack on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Arrange the coated zucchini strings in a single layer on the rack, avoiding any overlap to ensure maximum crispiness. Lightly spray or drizzle with olive oil for additional flavor and crunch.

            Bake to Perfection: Transfer the baking sheet to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes. Keep an eye on them until they turn golden brown and crispy. For even cooking and crispness, consider flipping the strings halfway through the baking time.

              Final Touches: Once baked, remove the zucchini strings from the oven and sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese on top while they are still warm. Allow them to cool for a few minutes to achieve extra crispiness.

                Serve: Garnish the crispy zucchini strings with finely chopped fresh parsley or chives before serving. Enjoy these delicious bites warm, either on their own or paired with your favorite dipping sauce!

                  Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 35 minutes | Serves 4 as a delightful snack or appetizer.