Vegan Zucchini Sticks Recipe
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Are you searching for a delicious, healthy, and easy snack or side dish? Look no further than these crispy, flavorful Vegan Zucchini Sticks! This recipe is perfect for those who love simple yet satisfying bites, offering a crunchy exterior with a tender, juicy inside. Whether you’re hosting a get-together, looking for a quick snack, or need a tasty side dish, these zucchini sticks will become your new go-to. They’re baked instead of fried, making them a healthier option that you can enjoy guilt-free. Plus, they’re entirely vegan, so everyone can dig in and enjoy!
Why You Will Love This Vegan Zucchini Sticks
- Simple Ingredients: Made with just a handful of pantry staples, these zucchini sticks are easy to whip up any time.
- Healthy and Nutritious: Zucchini is low in calories, rich in fiber, and packed with vitamins, making this a guilt-free snack.
- Baked, Not Fried: These sticks are oven-baked, which reduces the oil content, yet they still turn out perfectly crispy.
- Flavorful Seasoning: The combination of smoked paprika, garlic powder, and cornmeal gives them a smoky, savory flavor with a satisfying crunch.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether served as a snack, appetizer, or side dish, these zucchini sticks are versatile and crowd-pleasing.
Ingredient Notes
- Zucchini: Choose fresh, firm zucchinis. You can cut them into sticks or wedges, depending on your preference.
- Olive Oil: Helps the cornmeal coating stick to the zucchini and adds a subtle richness. For a different flavor, you can use avocado oil.
- Cornmeal: The key to the crunch! Cornmeal gives these sticks a nice texture that mimics a fried coating without the excess oil.
- Spices: Smoked Paprika: Adds a hint of smokiness that makes these sticks more flavorful. You can use regular paprika if you prefer a milder taste, Garlic Powder: Enhances the savory flavor, Salt and Pepper: Adjust to taste, but don’t skip these as they bring out all the other flavors.
- Lemon Juice: Adds a fresh, zesty finish that brightens the flavor.
- Fresh Basil: Optional but highly recommended for a burst of herbal freshness that pairs well with the savory flavors.
Tips and Tricks for the Best Vegan Zucchini Sticks
- Cut Evenly: Make sure to cut the zucchini sticks into even pieces to ensure they bake at the same rate. Uneven pieces may result in some being overcooked while others are undercooked.
- Don’t Skip the Oil: The olive oil helps the coating stick to the zucchini and allows it to get crispy in the oven.
- Use Parchment Paper: Line your baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Space Them Out: Arrange the sticks in a single layer, with space between each one. This ensures they bake evenly and become crispy.
- Flip Halfway: Flipping the zucchini sticks halfway through the baking time helps them crisp up on all sides.
- Serve Immediately: For the best texture and taste, serve the zucchini sticks right after they come out of the oven. They’re at their crispiest when hot.
Vegan Serving Suggestions and Pairings
These zucchini sticks can be enjoyed on their own or paired with various dips and dishes. Here are a few serving suggestions:
- Dipping Sauces:
- Vegan ranch dressing
- Marinara sauce
- Spicy sriracha mayo
- Garlic aioli (vegan version)
- As a Side Dish:
- Serve alongside a hearty salad, like a vegan Caesar or a kale salad with avocado.
- Pair with a comforting bowl of vegan tomato soup or minestrone for a cozy meal.
- Perfect Party Snack: Arrange these sticks on a platter with a few different dips for an easy appetizer that everyone will love.
Frequently Asked Questions about Vegan Zucchini Sticks
1. Can I use other vegetables instead of zucchini?
Absolutely! This recipe works well with other vegetables like eggplant, carrots, or even sweet potato sticks. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time based on the vegetable you use.
2. Can I make these zucchini sticks gluten-free?
Yes! Simply swap out the cornmeal for a gluten-free alternative like chickpea flour or a gluten-free breadcrumb mix. Be sure to check that all your other ingredients are also gluten-free.
3. How do I store and reheat leftovers?
If you have any leftover zucchini sticks, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, bake them in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 5-7 minutes, or until they’re warm and crispy again.
4. Can I make these zucchini sticks in an air fryer?
Yes, air frying is a great option! Arrange the zucchini sticks in a single layer in your air fryer basket and cook at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-12 minutes, shaking halfway through.
5. How can I make these extra crispy?
For an extra-crispy finish, try adding a tablespoon of breadcrumbs to the cornmeal mixture. You can also spray the zucchini sticks lightly with cooking spray before baking.
Essential Equipment
- Baking Sheet: You’ll need a large baking sheet to arrange the zucchini sticks in a single layer.
- Parchment Paper: Helps prevent sticking and makes for easy cleanup.
- Mixing Bowls: For tossing the zucchini with oil and for mixing the coating.
- Knife and Cutting Board: To cut the zucchini into even sticks.
- Tongs or Fork: Useful for flipping the zucchini sticks halfway through baking.
These Vegan Zucchini Sticks are a must-try recipe that brings together simplicity, flavor, and health in one crunchy bite. With their smoky, savory coating and tender, juicy interior, they’re sure to be a hit whether you’re making them for a snack, party appetizer, or side dish. Plus, they’re easy to make and bake in the oven, so you can enjoy all the deliciousness without the extra oil from frying. Give these a try, and they might just become your new favorite way to enjoy zucchini!
Do you have any unique variations for vegan zucchini sticks or a favorite dipping sauce that you love pairing them with? Share your ideas in the comments below! And if you try this recipe, I’d love to see your creations — tag me on Instagram @healthy.living.enthusiast so I can see and share your delicious zucchini sticks!
Vegan Zucchini Sticks
These crispy vegan zucchini sticks are coated in a smoky cornmeal mix and baked to perfection. Easy to make, healthy, and bursting with flavor, they’re the perfect snack or side dish for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 2 medium zucchinis
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 cup cornmeal
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Lemon juice (for garnish)
- Fresh basil leaves (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Prepare the Zucchini: Wash the zucchinis and cut them into sticks (about 1/2-inch thick).
- Coat the Zucchini: Place the zucchini sticks in a large bowl. Drizzle with olive oil and toss to coat evenly.
- Mix the Coating: In a separate bowl, combine the cornmeal, salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and garlic powder. Mix well.
- Coat the Zucchini Sticks: Toss the oiled zucchini sticks in the cornmeal mixture until they are evenly coated. Arrange them on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, flipping them halfway through, until they are golden brown and crispy.
- Garnish: Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top and garnish with chopped fresh basil leaves.
- Serve: Enjoy your crispy, flavorful vegan zucchini sticks with your favorite dipping sauce!
Notes
- Choose firm, fresh zucchinis for the best texture. Older zucchinis can become too soft and may not hold their shape well.
- Make sure your oven is fully preheated before baking. This helps the zucchini sticks crisp up nicely without becoming soggy.
- Arrange the zucchini sticks in a single layer with space between each piece. Overcrowding can cause them to steam instead of bake, leading to a less crispy texture.
MORE SNACK RECIPES:
- Beetroot Hummus Recipe
- Easy Roasted Brussels Sprouts
- Crispy Roasted Chickpeas
- Chocolate Covered Dates with Peanut Butter
