Easy Baked Zucchini Patties

Instructions

1. Prepare the Zucchini:

• Start by washing and grating the zucchini. You can use a box grater or a food processor to make this step quicker. After grating, place the zucchini into a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth and squeeze out the excess moisture. Zucchini has a high water content, and removing the moisture will help your patties hold together better.

2. Make the Patty Mixture:

• In a large mixing bowl, combine the grated zucchini with the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped onion, minced garlic, egg, and seasonings (salt, pepper, oregano, and basil, if using). Stir until everything is well mixed. The mixture should be thick enough to form patties. If it feels too wet, add a little more breadcrumbs until you achieve the right consistency.

3. Form the Patties:

• Using your hands, take small portions of the zucchini mixture and form them into round, flat patties (about 2-3 inches in diameter). You should be able to make 8-10 patties depending on the size.

4. Prepare the Baking Sheet:

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. Lightly spray the baking sheet with olive oil to prevent sticking.

5. Bake the Patties:

• Place the patties onto the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are spaced apart. Lightly spray the top of the patties with olive oil or cooking spray to help them crisp up during baking.
• Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping the patties halfway through, until they are golden brown and crispy on both sides.

6. Serve:

• Once baked, remove the zucchini patties from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Serve them warm with your favorite dipping sauce, or enjoy them on their own as a healthy snack.

Tips for Perfect Zucchini Patties

• Squeeze Out the Moisture: As mentioned earlier, squeezing out the excess moisture from the zucchini is crucial for getting crispy patties. If the mixture is too wet, the patties will not hold together well during baking.
• Customize the Seasonings: While the recipe calls for basic seasonings like salt, pepper, and Italian herbs, feel free to experiment with your favorite spices. Cumin, paprika, or red pepper flakes can add a fun twist to the flavor profile.
• Use Panko Breadcrumbs for Extra Crispiness: If you want an extra crispy exterior, opt for panko breadcrumbs, which are coarser and give the patties more crunch.
• Make Ahead: You can prepare the patty mixture in advance and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before forming and baking the patties. This also helps the flavors meld together.
• Freeze for Later: These patties freeze well! After baking, allow them to cool completely and then place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply bake them at 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes or until heated through.

Variations of Easy Baked Zucchini Patties

• Cheese Lovers Version: Add more cheese to the patties for a cheesy twist. Try mozzarella for a melty interior or add a bit of cheddar for a sharp flavor.
• Herb and Garlic: For an even more robust flavor, use fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, or rosemary, and increase the amount of garlic.
• Vegan Version: To make this recipe vegan, substitute the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 3 tablespoons water) and use vegan breadcrumbs and dairy-free cheese (optional).

Why You’ll Keep Coming Back to These Baked Zucchini Patties

These Easy Baked Zucchini Patties are a perfect balance of healthy and delicious. The natural sweetness of the zucchini shines through, while the crispy exterior and flavorful seasonings provide the perfect contrast. They’re great for both adults and kids alike, making them a family-friendly meal or snack option.

Not only are they simple and quick to make, but these patties are also versatile. You can enjoy them on their own, serve them as a side dish with grilled chicken or fish, or even top them with a dollop of yogurt or a sprinkle of feta for an extra layer of flavor.

Whether you’re trying to sneak in more vegetables or looking for a new recipe to add to your meal rotation, these Baked Zucchini Patties are sure to be a hit. So grab those zucchinis, preheat the oven, and get ready to enjoy a delicious, healthy dish that everyone will love!