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Zucchini is a versatile vegetable that can elevate a variety of dishes, and our Zesty No-Bake Zucchini Bites are no exception. This recipe is perfect for those seeking a light, refreshing snack or an impressive appetizer that requires no oven time. Combining the creamy richness of ricotta cheese with the fresh flavors of basil and sun-dried tomatoes, these bites tantalize your taste buds while offering a healthy alternative to traditional snacks. Not only are they easy to prepare, but they also highlight the best qualities of zucchini, making them an ideal choice for summer gatherings or a quick weekday snack.

No-Bake Zucchini Recipes

Discover a refreshing twist on snacking with our Zesty No-Bake Zucchini Bites! This easy, no-cook recipe combines creamy ricotta, savory Parmesan, and flavorful sun-dried tomatoes with fresh zucchini, making it a healthy choice for any occasion. Perfect for summer gatherings or quick weekday bites, these crunchy delights offer a burst of flavor and nutrition in every mouthful. Get ready to impress with this deliciously simple appetizer that everyone will love!
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Ingredients
  

2 medium zucchinis, finely shredded

1 cup ricotta cheese, at room temperature

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1/4 cup fresh basil, finely chopped

1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped into small pieces

1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste

1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

1 cup panko breadcrumbs (use gluten-free if preferred)

1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil

Optional garnish: additional fresh basil leaves, balsamic glaze for drizzling

Instructions
 

Prep the Zucchini:

    - Begin by washing the zucchinis thoroughly. Use a grater to shred the zucchinis finely, then transfer them to a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth. Gather the corners of the towel and twist it tightly to squeeze out as much excess moisture as possible. This step ensures that your bites won’t be soggy.

      Combine the Filling:

        - In a large mixing bowl, add the drained zucchini along with the ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan, finely chopped basil, sun-dried tomatoes, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to mix everything together until the mixture is well combined and creamy.

          Shape the Bites:

            - With clean hands, take small portions of the zucchini mixture and roll them into bite-sized balls or flatten them into patties. Aim for a size of about 1-2 inches in diameter for easy serving and snacking.

              Coat with Panko:

                - Pour the panko breadcrumbs into a shallow dish. Roll each zucchini bite in the breadcrumbs, ensuring they are evenly coated all around. This coating adds a delightful crunch to the bites once they chill.

                  Chill:

                    - Place the coated zucchini bites on a clean platter or a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle them lightly with the olive oil to enhance flavor and help them hold together when set. Cover the platter with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, allowing the bites to firm up.

                      Serve:

                        - After chilling, remove the zucchini bites from the refrigerator. Arrange them beautifully on a serving dish. For a touch of elegance, garnish with additional fresh basil leaves and a drizzle of balsamic glaze. These make for a refreshing appetizer or a tasty snack!

                          Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 45 minutes (including chilling) | Yields approximately 16 bites.