Crispy Oat and Zucchini Sticks

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Crispy Oat and Zucchini Sticks are a deliciously healthy and crunchy snack or side dish, offering a fun twist on traditional fried zucchini. The zucchini is coated in a savory, golden-brown crust made from oats and seasonings, then baked until perfectly crispy. These sticks are not only a great way to sneak in some veggies but also provide a satisfying crunch without the guilt of deep frying. Whether you serve them with a tangy dipping sauce or enjoy them on their own, they’re a crowd-pleaser that combines the freshness of zucchini with the heartiness of oats.

Why You’ll Love These Crispy Zucchini Sticks:

Healthy & Flavorful: Packed with fiber and nutrients from zucchini and oats, these sticks are a guilt-free snack that doesn’t compromise on flavor.

Customizable: You can tweak the herbs, spices, and dips to suit your tastes. Add more heat with chili flakes or experiment with different herbs.

Crispy Texture: The combination of frying and baking makes these sticks perfectly crispy on the outside while staying tender on the inside.

Perfect Snack or Appetizer: These zucchini sticks are perfect for serving at parties, as a light snack, or as a side dish for lunch or dinner.

Ingredients:

1 cup rolled oats (use gluten-free if needed)

1/2 cup oat flour (you can grind rolled oats in a blender if you don’t have oat flour)

2 medium zucchinis, grated

1/4 cup nutritional yeast (for a cheesy flavor)

2 cloves garlic, minced

1/4 cup chopped fresh herbs (such as dill, parsley, or chives)

Instructions:

Prepare the Zucchini:
Start by washing your zucchinis and patting them dry with a clean towel. Using a box grater, grate both zucchinis. Once grated, place the zucchini into a clean kitchen towel and squeeze out the excess moisture—this is key to achieving crispy sticks!

Mix the Ingredients:

In a large mixing bowl, combine the grated zucchini, 1 cup of rolled oats, 1/2 cup oat flour, 1/4 cup nutritional yeast, minced garlic, and fresh herbs. Season the mixture with 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper. If you want to spice things up, add 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika or chili flakes at this stage. Mix everything well until fully combined.

Adjust the Consistency:
If the mixture is too dry, add 1 tablespoon of water at a time to achieve the right consistency. It should be sticky enough to form into sticks. If the mixture feels too wet, add a bit more oat flour until it thickens up.

Shape the Sticks:

Now it’s time to shape your mixture! Take small amounts and roll them into sticks or logs, roughly about 12-16 sticks, depending on the size. Place them on a plate or baking sheet, and refrigerate for 15–30 minutes to help them firm up.

Cook the Sticks:
In a non-stick skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Cook the zucchini sticks for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until they turn golden brown and crispy. Avoid overcrowding the pan—if needed, cook the sticks in batches to maintain that crispy texture.

Bake for Extra Crispiness (Optional):
For an extra crispy finish, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the cooked sticks to a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake them in the oven for 10-15 minutes, or until they become golden brown and super crunchy.

Serve and Enjoy:
Let the crispy oat and zucchini sticks cool slightly before serving. These sticks are best enjoyed with a variety of dips such as marinara sauce, vegan ranch dressing, or spicy aioli for a flavor-packed experience!

Enjoy these Crispy Oat and Zucchini Sticks as a nutritious snack or a fun addition to any meal. They’re easy to make, full of flavor, and sure to become a new favorite in your kitchen!