Crispy Zucchini Parmesan Bites
These Crispy Zucchini Parmesan Bites are a delightful and healthier twist on traditional appetizers, perfect for serving at parties or as a light snack. Inspired by the renowned Food Network show 'Healthy Appetites with Ellie Krieger,' this recipe features fresh zucchini sliced into delicate rounds, coated in a savory blend of Parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs. Baked to perfection, these bites are not only low in cholesterol but also pack a flavorful punch, making them a guilt-free delight for both kids and adults. Each serving is just 2 Weight Watchers points, making it a smart choice for those looking to maintain a healthy lifestyle without sacrificing taste.
4
Servings
40
Calories
7
Ingredients
Ingredients
Cooking Spray
to coat (none)
Zucchini
2 medium (about 1 pound total) (washed and sliced into 1/4-inch rounds)
Olive Oil
1 tablespoon (none)
Freshly Grated Parmesan Cheese
1/4 cup (3/4-ounce) (grated)
Plain Breadcrumbs
1/4 cup (none)
Salt
1/8 teaspoon (none)
Fresh Ground Black Pepper
to taste (none)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C) and prepare a baking sheet by lightly spraying it with cooking spray.
2
Wash the zucchini and slice it into 1/4-inch thick rounds, ensuring even cooking.
3
In a mixing bowl, toss the zucchini slices with olive oil until they are lightly coated.
4
In a separate bowl, combine the freshly grated Parmesan cheese, plain breadcrumbs, salt, and a few turns of freshly ground black pepper. Mix well to distribute all ingredients evenly.
5
Take each zucchini round and dip it into the Parmesan mixture, ensuring it is fully coated on both sides. Press gently to help the coating stick.
6
Arrange the coated zucchini rounds in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, making sure they are not overcrowded.
7
Bake the zucchini in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on them as oven times can vary.
8
Once done, carefully remove the crisps with a spatula and serve immediately for the best texture.
Nutrition Information
2g
Fat
4g
Carbs
2g
Protein
1g
Fiber
0.5g
Sugar
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Crispy Zucchini Parmesan Bites?
They are a healthy appetizer featuring fresh zucchini rounds coated in a savory blend of Parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs, then baked until crispy.
How many calories are in one serving of this recipe?
Each serving contains approximately 40 calories.
What is the Weight Watchers point value for this recipe?
Each serving is calculated as 2 Weight Watchers points.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This recipe makes 4 servings.
What temperature should the oven be set to?
The oven should be preheated to 450°F (230°C).
How thick should the zucchini rounds be sliced?
The zucchini should be sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds to ensure even cooking.
How long do the zucchini bites need to bake?
Bake them in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
What type of cheese is used in this recipe?
The recipe calls for 1/4 cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese.
What kind of breadcrumbs should I use?
Use plain breadcrumbs for the coating mixture.
How much fat is in each serving?
There are 2 grams of fat per serving.
Are these zucchini bites high in cholesterol?
No, this recipe is specifically noted as being a low cholesterol option.
What is the total carbohydrate count per serving?
Each serving contains 4 grams of carbohydrates.
How much protein is in the Crispy Zucchini Parmesan Bites?
There are 2 grams of protein per serving.
Is there fiber in this snack?
Yes, each serving provides 1 gram of fiber.
What show inspired this recipe?
This recipe was inspired by the Food Network show 'Healthy Appetites with Ellie Krieger'.
How do you apply the coating to the zucchini?
First, toss the slices with olive oil, then dip each round into the Parmesan and breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to help it stick.
Should the zucchini be peeled?
No, the instructions specify to wash and slice the zucchini, but do not mention peeling.
What kind of oil is recommended?
The recipe uses 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
How much salt is used in the seasoning?
The recipe calls for 1/8 teaspoon of salt.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes, the tags indicate a gluten-free option is possible, likely by substituting the breadcrumbs with a gluten-free alternative.
How should I prepare the baking sheet?
The baking sheet should be lightly sprayed with cooking spray before arranging the zucchini.
Should the zucchini rounds be layered on the pan?
No, they should be arranged in a single layer without overcrowding for optimal crispness.
Is there sugar in this recipe?
There is a very small amount, approximately 0.5 grams of sugar per serving.
When is the best time to serve these?
They should be served immediately after removing from the oven for the best texture.
How many zucchinis are needed?
You will need 2 medium zucchinis, weighing about 1 pound in total.
What seasoning besides salt is used?
The recipe also uses freshly ground black pepper to taste.
Is this dish suitable for children?
Yes, the description mentions it is a guilt-free delight for both kids and adults.
How do I remove the bites from the baking sheet?
Carefully remove the crisps using a spatula to keep the coating intact.
What category does this recipe fall into?
It is categorized as an appetizer and a snack.
Are these bites fried?
No, these are baked in the oven as a healthier alternative to fried appetizers.