🧆 10-Minute Zucchini Balls – Easy Everyday Dinner
Description:
These crispy, savory zucchini balls are a fast and healthy vegetarian option that can be made in just 10 minutes. With simple ingredients and bold flavors, they make the perfect light dinner, appetizer, or snack. Ideal for busy weeknights when you want something quick but satisfying!
📝 Ingredients:
- 2 small zucchinis, grated
- 1 egg, beaten
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (use panko or gluten-free if preferred)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- (Optional additions: 1/4 cup grated Parmesan, 1 tbsp chopped parsley, pinch of salt)
👩🍳 Instructions:
- Prep zucchini: Grate the zucchini and squeeze out excess water using a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth.
- Mix: In a bowl, combine the grated zucchini, beaten egg, garlic, breadcrumbs, and black pepper. Mix until well combined. Add optional ingredients if desired.
- Shape: Form small balls using your hands or a cookie scoop.
- Cook: In a skillet over medium heat, add a drizzle of olive oil. Pan-fry zucchini balls for 2–3 minutes on each side or until golden and crispy.
- Serve: Enjoy warm, with yogurt dip, marinara sauce, or your favorite dressing.
🍽 Servings:
Makes about 10 small balls — serves 2 as a light dinner or 4 as a snack/appetizer.
💡 Tips:
- Moisture Control: Always squeeze out the zucchini well to prevent sogginess.
- Crispy Finish: Add a light coating of breadcrumbs on the outside before frying for extra crunch.
- Make Ahead: You can mix and shape the balls ahead of time and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before cooking.
- Baking Option: Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15–20 minutes, flipping halfway, for a healthier version.
🍎 Nutritional Info (Per Serving – approx. 5 balls):
- Calories: ~120
- Protein: 6g
- Carbs: 10g
- Fat: 7g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 2g
(Values vary depending on additional ingredients and exact quantities.)
💪 Health Benefits:
- Zucchini is rich in vitamins A and C, fiber, and antioxidants.
- Eggs provide protein and healthy fats.
- Garlic supports immune health.
- Low-carb & vegetarian friendly!
❓Q&A Section:
Q: Can I make these vegan?
A: Yes! Substitute the egg with a flax egg (1 tbsp flaxseed meal + 3 tbsp water, let sit 10 mins).
Q: Can I freeze these?
A: Yes, shape and freeze uncooked balls on a tray. Once frozen, transfer to a bag. Cook from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes.
Q: Can I air-fry them?
A: Absolutely! Spray lightly with oil and air-fry at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes, flipping once.