If you are searching for a crispy, flavorful snack that is both healthy and satisfying, look no further than this Vegan Zucchini Sticks Recipe. These golden, crunchy sticks are a fantastic way to enjoy zucchini in a new and exciting way, perfectly coated with a savory breadcrumb and nutritional yeast mixture that gives them a delightful cheesy flavor without any dairy. Whether you are a seasoned vegan or simply want a delicious vegetable treat, this recipe brings together simple ingredients to create a snack that everyone will love.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these ingredients is straightforward, and each one plays an important role in bringing the perfect balance of taste, texture, and color to your Vegan Zucchini Sticks Recipe. From the fresh, tender zucchini to the crispy breadcrumbs and nutty nutritional yeast, every element contributes to making this dish irresistibly delicious.
- 2 medium zucchinis: Choose firm zucchinis for optimal crunch and freshness in your sticks.
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs: Adds the essential crispy, golden coating that makes these sticks addictive.
- 1/4 cup nutritional yeast: Brings a cheesy, umami flavor that makes this snack satisfyingly savory.
- 1 tsp garlic powder: Provides a punch of aromatic flavor to elevate every bite.
- 1 tsp onion powder: Adds a subtle sweetness and depth to the coating mix.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings that balance and enhance all the other flavors.
- 1/4 cup olive oil: Helps the seasoning and coating stick while contributing a smooth richness.
How to Make Vegan Zucchini Sticks Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheet
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven warms, either line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with a little olive oil. This will prevent the zucchini sticks from sticking and help them crisp up beautifully during baking.
Step 2: Coat the Zucchini Sticks with Olive Oil and Seasonings
Toss your zucchini sticks in olive oil until they are evenly coated. This oil layer will help the seasonings stick and give that lovely golden finish when baked. Next, sprinkle the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper over the sticks and give them another gentle toss to ensure every piece is infused with these flavorful spices.
Step 3: Mix the Breadcrumb and Nutritional Yeast Coating
In a separate bowl, combine the breadcrumbs and nutritional yeast. This mixture is the star of the Vegan Zucchini Sticks Recipe’s coating, providing both crunch and a subtle cheesy taste that makes these sticks uniquely delicious.
Step 4: Coat the Zucchini Sticks in the Breadcrumb Mixture
Carefully press each zucchini stick into the breadcrumb and nutritional yeast mixture, ensuring each stick is fully coated. The gentle pressing helps the coating adhere properly, setting you up for that irresistible texture once baked.
Step 5: Arrange and Bake
Lay the coated zucchini sticks in a single layer on your prepared baking sheet. Spread them out evenly so they bake consistently. Place the tray in your preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, flipping the sticks halfway through to achieve an even, crispy golden crust all around.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Once baked, your Vegan Zucchini Sticks Recipe is ready to be enjoyed. Serve them hot with your favorite dipping sauce and prepare for crunchy, flavorful bites that will keep you reaching for more.
How to Serve Vegan Zucchini Sticks Recipe
Garnishes
Adding garnishes like freshly chopped parsley or a sprinkle of smoked paprika can add a pop of color and an extra layer of flavor to your Vegan Zucchini Sticks Recipe. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice brightens the dish beautifully, lifting the savory notes with a hint of zest.
Side Dishes
These zucchini sticks pair perfectly with light, refreshing sides such as a crisp green salad or a cool cucumber and tomato relish. If you want to keep things hearty, try them alongside creamy hummus or a tangy vegan ranch dip for dipping options that complement their crispy texture wonderfully.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun and inviting presentation, serve these zucchini sticks in a rustic wooden bowl or arrange them standing upright in small cups with dipping sauce in the center. They also work wonderfully stacked on a platter with scattered fresh herbs and a variety of dipping sauces like spicy sriracha mayo or garlicky tahini, turning your Vegan Zucchini Sticks Recipe into a party favorite that looks as good as it tastes.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftovers, place the zucchini sticks in an airtight container and refrigerate them. They will stay fresh for up to 2 days and can be enjoyed as a quick snack or side at your convenience.
Freezing
You can freeze leftover zucchini sticks by laying them out in a single layer on a baking sheet and freezing until firm. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. Frozen sticks keep well for up to a month and make a handy, quick snack option whenever you need it.
Reheating
To bring back that crispiness after refrigeration or freezing, reheat the zucchini sticks in an oven or air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it tends to make them soggy instead of crunchy.
FAQs
Can I use gluten-free breadcrumbs for this recipe?
Absolutely! Gluten-free breadcrumbs work perfectly in the Vegan Zucchini Sticks Recipe and won’t compromise on texture or flavor, making this dish accessible to those with gluten sensitivities.
What dipping sauces go well with Vegan Zucchini Sticks?
There are so many delicious dipping options like marinara, vegan ranch, tahini sauce, spicy mayo, or even a tangy barbecue sauce. These all complement the crispy, savory zucchini sticks beautifully.
Can I bake these sticks instead of frying?
This Vegan Zucchini Sticks Recipe is designed to be baked, giving you a healthier, less oily version while still achieving crispy perfection. Baking is the best method to keep the sticks light and crunchy.
Is nutritional yeast necessary?
While nutritional yeast adds a wonderful cheesy flavor that defines this recipe, you can skip it if you need to. Your sticks will still turn out crispy and tasty but might lack some of that umami depth.
How long do these zucchini sticks stay crispy after baking?
They are best enjoyed fresh from the oven since they start to soften as they cool. However, reheating them in the oven or air fryer will restore much of their original crispiness.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving a snack that’s both satisfying and nourishing, don’t hesitate to try this Vegan Zucchini Sticks Recipe. It’s a perfect way to make zucchini exciting, crispy, and bursting with flavor. Once you make them, these sticks are sure to become a favorite go-to for anytime munching or sharing with friends and family.
Print
Vegan Zucchini Sticks Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Vegan
- Diet: Vegan
Description
Crispy and flavorful Vegan Zucchini Sticks baked to golden perfection, coated with a savory breadcrumb and nutritional yeast mixture, making for a healthy and delicious snack or appetizer.
Ingredients
Zucchini Sticks
- 2 medium zucchinis, cut into sticks
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
Coating
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup nutritional yeast
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
- Prepare zucchini sticks: Toss the zucchini sticks in olive oil, ensuring all pieces are evenly coated. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to your liking, distributing the seasonings well.
- Mix coating: In a separate bowl, combine the breadcrumbs and nutritional yeast thoroughly to create a flavorful coating mixture.
- Coat zucchini: Dredge each zucchini stick in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently so the coating adheres well to the surface.
- Arrange on baking sheet: Place the coated zucchini sticks in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are not overcrowded to allow for even baking and crispiness.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, flipping the sticks halfway through the cooking time to ensure they bake evenly and become golden and crispy on all sides.
- Serve: Remove from oven and serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce for a delicious, healthy snack or appetizer.
Notes
- For extra crispiness, you can spray the coated zucchini sticks lightly with cooking spray before baking.
- Substitute gluten-free breadcrumbs to make this recipe gluten-free.
- Try different seasonings such as smoked paprika or chili powder for added flavor variety.
- Serve with vegan ranch or marinara sauce for dipping.
