Quick Description:
These cheesy zucchini rings are crispy on the outside, cheesy and flavorful on the inside, and a great way to get more veggies into your diet. They’re perfect as a snack, appetizer, or side dish.
Servings & Timing:
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20–25 minutes
- Total Time: ~30–35 minutes
- Difficulty: Beginner-friendly ⭐
Ingredients List:
- 2 medium zucchinis, grated
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (or cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a mix)
- ½ cup almond flour (or regular all-purpose flour)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- Salt & black pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds (black & white, for topping)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Zucchini:
- Grate the zucchini using a box grater or food processor.
- Place the grated zucchini in a clean kitchen towel or paper towels and squeeze out as much excess moisture as possible. This step is important to prevent soggy rings.
2. Make the Batter:
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, baking powder, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Add the grated zucchini, shredded mozzarella, and almond flour. Mix until well combined. The batter should be thick enough to hold its shape.
3. Shape the Zucchini Rings:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Using your hands or a spoon, form small rings from the zucchini mixture. Place them on the baking sheet, spacing them about 1–2 inches apart.
4. Add the Toppings:
- Sprinkle the sesame seeds over the top of each zucchini ring for extra crunch and flavor.
5. Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, or until the rings are golden brown and crispy on the outside. Flip them halfway through for even cooking.
6. Serve:
- Let the zucchini rings cool slightly before serving. They’re perfect on their own or paired with a dipping sauce like ranch or marinara.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Approximate):
- Calories: 150–180
- Protein: 10g
- Carbs: 8g (with almond flour)
- Fat: 12g
- Fiber: 3g
Benefits:
- Low-Carb & Keto-Friendly: Perfect for low-carb and keto diets when using almond flour.
- High in Protein: Thanks to the cheese and almond flour, these zucchini rings pack a protein punch.
- Gluten-Free Option: By using almond flour, these rings are naturally gluten-free.
Storage:
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Freeze the rings on a baking sheet for an hour, then transfer to a bag for up to 1 month. Reheat in the oven for a crispy texture.
Tips & Variations:
- For extra crispiness: Try adding a bit of grated Parmesan cheese to the batter.
- For a spicy kick: Add some crushed red pepper flakes to the batter or sprinkle on top before baking.
- Vegetable add-ins: Try adding finely chopped spinach or bell peppers to the mixture for more flavor and nutrients.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve these cheesy zucchini rings as a snack or appetizer with a side of marinara sauce or your favorite dip.
- Pair them with a salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
FAQs:
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the zucchini mixture ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Shape the rings and bake them when ready to serve.
Can I use regular flour instead of almond flour?
Yes, you can use regular flour if you don’t need a gluten-free option, but it may increase the carb count slightly.
Personal Story:
I love making these cheesy zucchini rings when I want a snack that feels indulgent but is still healthy. They’re the perfect way to use up extra zucchini from the garden, and the whole family loves them! My kids even dip them in marinara sauce for a pizza-like treat.
