Crispy Zucchini Garlic Cheese Bites

With Creamy Herb Yogurt Sauce

🛒 Ingredients (Makes ~12–14 bites)

For the Zucchini Bites

• 2 medium zucchini, grated

• 1 tsp salt (for draining)

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella

• ½ cup grated Parmesan

• 1 large egg

• ½ cup breadcrumbs (panko preferred)

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley

• ½ tsp Italian seasoning

• ¼ tsp black pepper

• 2–3 tbsp olive oil (for pan frying)

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For the Creamy Herb Sauce

• ½ cup Greek yogurt or sour cream

• 1 tbsp mayonnaise (optional for extra creaminess)

• 1 tbsp lemon juice

• 1 tbsp chopped parsley

• 1 small garlic clove, finely minced or grated

• Salt & pepper to taste

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👩‍🍳 Instructions

1️⃣ Prep the Zucchini (Important Step!)

1. Grate zucchini and place in a bowl.

2. Sprinkle with 1 tsp salt and let sit 10 minutes.

3. Squeeze out as much moisture as possible using a clean kitchen towel.
   (This prevents soggy fritters.)

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2️⃣ Mix the Batter

In a large bowl combine:

• Drained zucchini

• Mozzarella

• Parmesan

• Egg

• Breadcrumbs

• Garlic

• Parsley

• Italian seasoning

• Black pepper

Mix until fully combined. The mixture should hold together when pressed.
If too wet, add 1–2 extra tablespoons breadcrumbs.

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3️⃣ Shape & Cook

1. Form into small balls (about 2 tablespoons each).

2. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.

3. Gently flatten balls slightly in the pan.

4. Cook 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy.

Transfer to paper towel-lined plate.

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🔥 Optional Baking Method

• Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).

• Place bites on lined baking sheet.

• Lightly spray with oil.

• Bake 18–22 minutes, flipping halfway.

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4️⃣ Make the Sauce

Mix all sauce ingredients in a bowl. Chill 15–30 minutes for best flavor.

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🧀 Extra Tips for Extra Crispy Bites

• Use panko instead of regular breadcrumbs

• Add 2 tbsp flour if mixture feels loose

• For extra crunch, roll in extra Parmesan before frying

• Air fryer: 375°F for 10–12 minutes (flip halfway)