Savory Zucchini Cheese Rings
Yield
6–8 rings
Time
Prep: 15 minutes
Cook: 20–25 minutes
Total: ~40 minutes
Ingredients
Main
-
2 medium zucchini (about 2 cups grated)
-
2 large eggs
-
¾ cup shredded cheese
(mozzarella for stretch, cheddar for flavor — mix works great) -
½ cup all-purpose flour
(or breadcrumbs for extra crunch) -
¼ cup grated Parmesan
-
2 cloves garlic, minced
-
2 tbsp fresh parsley or dill, chopped
Seasoning
-
½ tsp salt
-
½ tsp black pepper
-
½ tsp paprika or chili flakes (optional)
Topping
-
1 tbsp sesame seeds (white, black, or both)
For Cooking
-
Oil spray or 1–2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
1. Prep the Zucchini (Important!)
-
Grate the zucchini using a coarse grater.
-
Place in a bowl, sprinkle with ½ tsp salt, and let sit 10 minutes.
-
Squeeze out as much liquid as possible using a clean towel or cheesecloth.
👉 This step keeps the rings firm, not soggy.
2. Make the Batter
In a large bowl, combine:
-
Squeezed zucchini
-
Eggs
-
Shredded cheese
-
Parmesan
-
Garlic
-
Herbs
-
Flour
-
Black pepper & paprika
Mix until thick and sticky but scoopable.
3. Shape the Rings
-
Line a baking tray with parchment paper or lightly oil a pan.
-
Scoop about ¼ cup mixture per ring.
-
Shape into a donut (use your fingers or a spoon).
-
Sprinkle sesame seeds on top and gently press them in.
4. Cook (Choose One Method)
🔥 Oven-Baked (like the photo)
-
Preheat oven to 200°C / 400°F
-
Lightly spray rings with oil
-
Bake 20–25 minutes, flipping once halfway
-
Broil last 2 minutes for extra golden tops
🍳 Pan-Fried (extra crispy)
-
Heat oil over medium heat
-
Cook 3–4 minutes per side until golden
-
Drain on paper towels
🌪️ Air Fryer
-
190°C / 375°F
-
Cook 12–15 minutes, flipping once
5. Cool Slightly & Serve
Let rest 5 minutes to set.
Texture & Flavor
-
Crispy golden outside 🟡
-
Soft, cheesy, zucchini-packed inside 🧀🥒
-
Nutty crunch from sesame seeds ✨
Serving Ideas
-
Yogurt garlic dip
-
Sour cream or tzatziki
-
Sweet chili sauce
-
As a burger bun substitute 😏
Pro Tips
-
Too wet? Add 1–2 tbsp more flour
-
Want keto? Use almond flour
-
Want spicy? Add jalapeño or cayenne
-
Want extra crisp? Add breadcrumbs to the outside
