Zoo Sticks
Crispy, golden, and utterly irresistible, Zoo Sticks are a healthier take on classic fried appetizers, perfect for satisfying your snack cravings. These oven-baked zucchini sticks are coated in a crunchy blend of panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and a medley of spices like garlic powder, oregano, and paprika, creating a flavor explosion in every bite. Quick and easy to make, this recipe starts with fresh zucchini, which is cut into fry-like sticks before being dipped, dredged, and baked to perfection. A spritz of olive oil spray ensures a beautifully crisp exterior without the excess oil of deep frying, making them a guilt-free indulgence. Pair these crowd-pleasing veggie sticks with marinara sauce for a zesty dipping experience, and you've got the ultimate appetizer or side dish ready in just 35 minutes. Perfect for game day, family gatherings, or as a fun way to sneak in some veggies, Zoo Sticks are bound to become a household favorite!
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 3 medium-sized zucchini
- 0.5 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 0.5 teaspoon paprika
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- 0.25 teaspoon black pepper
- as needed olive oil spray
- 0.5 cup marinara sauce (optional, for dipping)
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Lightly spray the parchment paper with olive oil spray.
Wash the zucchinis and trim both ends. Cut them into sticks approximately 3-4 inches long and about 1/2 inch thick to resemble French fries.
Set up a breading station with three shallow bowls. In the first bowl, place the all-purpose flour. In the second bowl, whisk the eggs until smooth. In the third bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, dried oregano, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
Dredge each zucchini stick in the flour, ensuring it is lightly coated, then dip it into the whisked eggs, and finally roll it in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure the coating adheres well.
Place the coated zucchini sticks in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Make sure they are not touching to allow even cooking.
Lightly spray the tops of the zucchini sticks with olive oil spray. This will help them crisp up while baking.
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, turning the sticks halfway through cooking to ensure even browning. The zucchini sticks should be golden and crispy on the outside.
Serve immediately with marinara sauce or your favorite dipping sauce on the side.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
1011 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 27.0 g | 35% | |
| Saturated Fat | 11.7 g | 58% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.4 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 412 mg | 137% | |
| Sodium | 8514 mg | 370% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 146.7 g | 53% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 11.2 g | 40% | |
| Total Sugars | 52.7 g | ||
| Protein | 50.5 g | 101% | |
| Vitamin D | 2.1 mcg | 10% | |
| Calcium | 670 mg | 52% | |
| Iron | 10.4 mg | 58% | |
| Potassium | 1931 mg | 41% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
