Vegan Zucchini Sticks Recipe

Get ready to fall in love with crispy, golden, and utterly irresistible Vegan Zucchini Sticks! Perfectly seasoned, oven-baked, and packed with plant-based goodness, these sticks are everything you want in a snack: crunchy on the outside, tender on the inside, and bursting with flavor. Whether you’re entertaining friends, craving a late-night bite, or looking for a healthier alternative to classic fried snacks, this recipe will win you over with its simplicity and charm. Let’s dive in—these Vegan Zucchini Sticks are about to become your new favorite appetizer!

Vegan Zucchini Sticks Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s talk about simple magic! Each ingredient in these Vegan Zucchini Sticks is carefully chosen to create perfect crispy texture, rich flavor, and vibrant color. You’ll be amazed at how basic pantry staples come together for maximum crunch and taste.

  • 2 medium zucchinis (cut into sticks): The star of the show! Choose firm, fresh zucchinis for the best results.
  • ¾ cup panko breadcrumbs: These give your zucchini sticks an extra-light, shatteringly crisp coating you’ll crave.
  • ¼ cup nutritional yeast: Packs a punch of cheesy, umami flavor—no dairy needed!
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder: Adds savory depth and makes every bite extra tasty.
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder: Rounds out the flavor, giving these sticks a well-balanced zing.
  • ½ teaspoon dried oregano: Lends a hint of herby freshness that brightens up the whole dish.
  • ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika: Infuses a gentle smokiness and beautiful color that stands out.
  • ½ teaspoon salt: Essential for flavor—don’t skip it!
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper: Adds a subtle kick and sharpens all the flavors.
  • ½ cup unsweetened plant-based milk: Helps the coating stick and keeps everything 100 percent vegan.
  • ½ cup all-purpose flour: The first step in breading, it ensures every zucchini stick is coated evenly.

How to Make Vegan Zucchini Sticks

Step 1: Prep Your Baking Station

Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. Laying the groundwork here makes baking and cleanup a breeze, so you can focus on crunchy goodness—not scrubbing pans later.

Step 2: Set Up the Breading Bowls

Set out three shallow bowls. In the first, combine the panko breadcrumbs, nutritional yeast, garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. In the second bowl, place your all-purpose flour. Pour the unsweetened plant-based milk into the third bowl. Having an assembly line ready makes the dipping process quick and seamless.

Step 3: Dip and Dredge

Take each zucchini stick and coat it first in flour (shake off excess), then dip it fully in the plant-based milk, and finally roll it in the breadcrumb mixture. Press gently so the coating sticks and forms an even crust on all sides—it’s the secret to that perfect crunch!

Step 4: Get Ready to Bake

Arrange the coated Vegan Zucchini Sticks in a single layer on your prepared baking sheet. For an extra-crunchy touch, give them a light mist of oil, but this is totally optional. Leave space between each stick so they crisp up beautifully.

Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection

Pop your tray in the oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, flipping the sticks over halfway through. You’ll know they’re done when they look beautifully golden and the coating feels super crisp. Serve your homemade Vegan Zucchini Sticks immediately, with your favorite vegan dipping sauce for the full experience!

How to Serve Vegan Zucchini Sticks

Vegan Zucchini Sticks Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

Add a dash of fun! Try a sprinkle of finely chopped parsley or basil before serving for a burst of freshness. A little vegan parmesan or an extra dusting of nutritional yeast can also deliver that classic, cheesy finish—without the dairy.

Side Dishes

These Vegan Zucchini Sticks are perfect as a party appetizer, but they also shine alongside other favorites. Pair them with a big bowl of salad, homemade hummus, or even vegan pizza for a comforting, crowd-pleasing meal. They love a good marinara or cashew ranch dip on the side, too!

Creative Ways to Present

Get playful with presentation! Serve these sticks upright in mason jars or small glasses with dipping sauces at the bottom so each bite is a dunk-and-crunch delight. Make a Vegan Zucchini Sticks platter with colorful veggies and dips for a stunning snack board at your next gathering.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any Vegan Zucchini Sticks left (that’s a big “if”), place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. They’ll lose some crispness, but still make an awesome midday snack or side!

Freezing

You can freeze these after baking! Arrange the fully cooled zucchini sticks on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag or container. They’ll stay fresh for up to a month, making meal prep easy and convenient.

Reheating

For the best crunch, reheat your Vegan Zucchini Sticks in a 400°F oven or air fryer for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through and crispy again. Avoid the microwave if possible, as it tends to make them a little soggier.

FAQs

Can I use a different flour for breading?

Absolutely! If you’re gluten-free, try using a gluten-free all-purpose blend or even chickpea flour for a slightly nuttier taste and texture. The recipe is quite flexible and works well with most alternatives.

Can I make these Vegan Zucchini Sticks in an air fryer?

Yes! Air fry at 400°F for about 12–15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through. This gives them an incredibly crisp crust—plus, it’s even faster than baking.

What are the best dipping sauces for Vegan Zucchini Sticks?

Classic marinara sauce, vegan ranch, spicy sriracha mayo, or even a tangy vegan yogurt dip all pair beautifully. Mix things up by serving more than one sauce to suit every mood!

How do I keep the coating from falling off?

The three-step breading process (flour, milk, breadcrumbs) really helps, but make sure to shake off excess flour and press the crumb mixture on well. Let the breaded sticks sit for a couple of minutes before baking to help the coating set firmly.

Can I prep Vegan Zucchini Sticks in advance?

You can bread the zucchini sticks a few hours ahead and refrigerate them, covered, until you’re ready to bake. This makes entertaining extra easy—just pop them in the oven when guests arrive.

Final Thoughts

If you’re searching for a guaranteed crowd-pleaser or simply a way to make veggies irresistible, you have to give these Vegan Zucchini Sticks a try. They’re fun, fabulously crisp, and so easy to customize. Invite some friends over or enjoy a batch all to yourself—you deserve it!

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Vegan Zucchini Sticks Recipe

Vegan Zucchini Sticks Recipe


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4.6 from 21 reviews

  • Author: admin
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Vegan

Description

These vegan zucchini sticks are a crispy and flavorful appetizer or snack that’s perfect for any occasion. Coated in a savory breadcrumb mixture and baked to perfection, they are a healthier alternative to traditional fried snacks.


Ingredients

Scale

Zucchini Sticks:

  • 2 medium zucchinis (cut into sticks)
  • ¾ cup panko breadcrumbs
  • ¼ cup nutritional yeast
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon dried oregano
  • ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper

Breading:

  • ½ cup unsweetened plant-based milk
  • ½ cup all-purpose flour

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Prepare breadcrumb mixture: In a shallow bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, nutritional yeast, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
  3. Set up breading station: Place flour in one bowl and plant-based milk in another.
  4. Coat zucchini sticks: Dip each zucchini stick in flour, then milk, and coat with the breadcrumb mixture.
  5. Bake: Arrange coated zucchini sticks on the baking sheet and bake for 20–25 minutes until crispy.
  6. Serve: Serve hot with vegan dipping sauce.

Notes

  • For extra crispiness, lightly spray zucchini sticks with oil before baking.
  • Air-fry at 400°F for 12–15 minutes as an alternative cooking method.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 portion
  • Calories: 160
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 340mg
  • Fat: 4g
  • Saturated Fat: 0g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 3g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 26g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 5g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg

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