Get ready to revolutionize your snack game with these irresistible Mini Carrot and Zucchini Bites that are about to become your new obsession! Imagine a crispy, golden-brown morsel packed with vibrant vegetables, melted cheese, and just the right amount of seasoning that will make your taste buds dance with joy. Perfect for picky eaters, health-conscious snackers, and anyone looking for a delicious way to sneak more vegetables into their diet, these mini bites are so addictively good, you won't believe they're actually nutritious!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 20 bites
Ingredients
- 1 cup grated carrots
- 1 cup grated zucchini
- 1/2 cup flour
- 1/2 cup shredded cheese
- 1 egg
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the vegetables by washing the carrots and zucchini thoroughly. Using a box grater, grate the carrots and zucchini, ensuring to remove excess moisture by placing the grated vegetables in a clean kitchen towel and gently squeezing out the liquid.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the grated carrots and zucchini. Add the flour, shredded cheese, egg, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix all ingredients thoroughly until a cohesive mixture forms.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a mini muffin tin to prevent sticking.
- Using a small spoon or cookie scoop, carefully distribute the vegetable mixture into the prepared mini muffin tin, filling each cavity about 3/4 full.
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 18-20 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the bites are firm to the touch.
- Remove from the oven and let the bites cool in the tin for 5 minutes. This helps them set and makes removal easier.
- Gently remove the bites from the tin using a small offset spatula or knife. Serve warm as an appetizer or snack.
Tips
- Moisture is the Enemy: The key to crispy bites is removing as much liquid as possible from the grated vegetables. Use a clean kitchen towel and squeeze out every drop of excess moisture to prevent soggy results.
- Cheese Matters: Choose a cheese that melts well, like cheddar or mozzarella, to ensure maximum flavor and perfect texture.
- Don't Overmix: Combine the ingredients just until they're incorporated. Overmixing can lead to tough, dense bites.
- Size Consistency: Use a cookie scoop or small spoon to ensure uniform size, which helps with even cooking.
- Cooling is Crucial: Let the bites rest in the pan for 5 minutes after baking. This helps them set and makes removal much easier.
- Make Ahead Friendly: These bites can be prepared in advance and reheated in the oven for a quick and easy snack or appetizer.
- Customize Your Flavor: Feel free to add herbs like basil or chives, or experiment with different cheese varieties to make the recipe your own!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 25kcal
Carbohydrates: 3g
Protein: 1g
Fat: 1g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 10mg