Zucchini and Spinach Bites with Feta

Introduction

Zucchini and Spinach Bites with Feta are a delightful snack or appetizer packed with vibrant vegetables and bold flavors. These crispy, bite-sized treats feature grated zucchini, fresh spinach, creamy feta cheese, and crunchy breadcrumbs. They’re perfect as a party appetizer, lunchbox addition, or quick healthy snack. You can bake, fry, or air-fry them, making them versatile and easy to adapt to your preferred cooking method. Whether served with a side of yogurt dip or enjoyed on their own, these bites are bound to become a family favorite!


Ingredients

  • 2 medium zucchinis, grated
  • 1 ½ cups spinach, finely chopped
  • ½ cup feta cheese, crumbled
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • ½ cup breadcrumbs (plain or panko)
  • 1 egg (for binding)
  • ½ tsp dried oregano
  • ¼ tsp salt
  • ¼ tsp black pepper
  • 2 tbsp olive oil (for frying or brushing, optional if baking)

Preparation

Step 1: Prepare the Zucchini

  1. Grate the zucchinis using a box grater.
  2. Place the grated zucchini in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth and squeeze out as much water as possible. Removing excess moisture is essential for crispy bites.
  3. Set the zucchini aside.

Step 2: Mix the Ingredients

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the grated zucchini, chopped spinach, crumbled feta, garlic, breadcrumbs, egg, oregano, salt, and pepper.
  2. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated. The mixture should hold together when squeezed. If it feels too wet, add more breadcrumbs.

Step 3: Shape the Bites

  1. Scoop about 1-2 tablespoons of the mixture and shape it into small, round balls or patties.
  2. Place the shaped bites on a plate or tray.

Step 4: Cook the Zucchini and Spinach Bites

Option 1: Baking

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly brush with olive oil.
  3. Arrange the bites on the baking sheet and brush the tops with a little olive oil.
  4. Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crisp.

Option 2: Frying

  1. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add the bites in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pan.
  3. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden and crispy.
  4. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Option 3: Air-Frying

  1. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Arrange the bites in a single layer and lightly spray with olive oil.
  3. Air-fry for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until crisp and golden.

COOKING Notes

  • Breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs provide extra crunch, but regular breadcrumbs work just as well.
  • Spinach Substitute: Use kale or chard if you don’t have spinach on hand.
  • Feta Alternatives: Swap feta for goat cheese or a plant-based feta for a vegan option.
  • Egg Substitute: Use a flax egg (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 3 tbsp water) for an egg-free version.

Serving Suggestions

  • Serve with a side of tzatziki, hummus, or garlic yogurt dip.
  • These bites also work well in pita bread wraps with lettuce and tomatoes.
  • Pair with a fresh green salad for a light lunch.

Tips

  • Make-Ahead: Prepare the mixture in advance and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before cooking.
  • Freezing: Freeze uncooked bites on a tray. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag. Cook from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
  • Crispier Texture: For extra crunch, roll the bites in breadcrumbs before cooking.

Prep Time

15 minutes

Cooking Time

20 minutes

Total Time

35 minutes


Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Approx. 6 Bites)

  • Calories: 180
  • Protein: 7g
  • Sodium: 340mg

(Note: Nutrition may vary based on specific ingredients and serving sizes.)


Conclusion

These Zucchini and Spinach Bites with Feta are the perfect way to enjoy healthy, flavorful vegetables. Whether baked, fried, or air-fried, they turn out golden, crispy, and delicious every time. The combination of spinach, zucchini, and feta makes them both savory and satisfying, while the breadcrumbs give them the perfect crunch. These bites are great for meal prep, parties, or as a quick snack. Serve them with your favorite dip, and enjoy the delightful burst of flavors in every bite!

Print
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Zucchini and Spinach Bites with Feta


  • Author: Imili Johnson
  • Total Time: 35 minutes

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 medium zucchinis, grated
  • 1 ½ cups spinach, finely chopped
  • ½ cup feta cheese, crumbled
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • ½ cup breadcrumbs (plain or panko)
  • 1 egg (for binding)
  • ½ tsp dried oregano
  • ¼ tsp salt
  • ¼ tsp black pepper
  • 2 tbsp olive oil (for frying or brushing, optional if baking)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Zucchini

  1. Grate the zucchinis using a box grater.
  2. Place the grated zucchini in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth and squeeze out as much water as possible. Removing excess moisture is essential for crispy bites.
  3. Set the zucchini aside.

Step 2: Mix the Ingredients

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the grated zucchini, chopped spinach, crumbled feta, garlic, breadcrumbs, egg, oregano, salt, and pepper.
  2. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated. The mixture should hold together when squeezed. If it feels too wet, add more breadcrumbs.

Step 3: Shape the Bites

  1. Scoop about 1-2 tablespoons of the mixture and shape it into small, round balls or patties.
  2. Place the shaped bites on a plate or tray.

Step 4: Cook the Zucchini and Spinach Bites

Option 1: Baking

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly brush with olive oil.
  3. Arrange the bites on the baking sheet and brush the tops with a little olive oil.
  4. Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crisp.

Option 2: Frying

  1. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add the bites in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pan.
  3. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden and crispy.
  4. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Option 3: Air-Frying

  1. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Arrange the bites in a single layer and lightly spray with olive oil.
  3. Air-fry for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until crisp and golden.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes

Nutrition

  • Calories: 180
  • Sodium: 340mg
  • Protein: 7g

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