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If you're on the lookout for a dish that marries comfort food with clever nutrition, look no further than Mini Zucchini Parm Waffle Sliders. This inventive recipe transforms the classic waffle into a savory delight, featuring the fresh taste of zucchini and the rich, umami flavor of parmesan cheese. These mini sliders not only appeal to the taste buds of both kids and adults but also cleverly incorporate vegetables into your meals, making them an ideal option for snacking, entertaining, or light lunches.

Mini Zucchini Parm Waffle Sliders

Discover the delicious world of Mini Zucchini Parm Waffle Sliders—a perfect blend of comfort and nutrition. This inventive recipe turns classic waffles into savory delights featuring fresh zucchini and rich parmesan, appealing to both kids and adults. With easy preparation and a flavorful homemade marinara sauce, these sliders are not only a fun snack but also a clever way to incorporate veggies into your meals. Perfect for gatherings or light lunches, this dish is sure to impress.

Ingredients
  

For the Zucchini Waffles:

2 medium zucchinis, grated

1 cup all-purpose flour

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 large egg

1/4 cup milk

1 tsp baking powder

1/2 tsp garlic powder

1/4 tsp salt

1/4 tsp black pepper

Olive oil spray (for the waffle iron)

For the Marinara Sauce:

1 cup store-bought marinara or homemade marinara (see below)

1/2 tsp Italian seasoning

Salt and pepper to taste

For Assembly:

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Extra marinara for dipping

Homemade Marinara (Optional):

1 can (15 oz) crushed tomatoes

1 clove garlic, minced

1 tsp olive oil

1/2 tsp dried oregano

Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions
 

Prepare the Zucchini:

    - Grate the zucchinis and place them in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth. Squeeze out as much moisture as possible, ensuring the waffles are not soggy.

      Make the Marinara Sauce (if using homemade):

        - In a saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, oregano, salt, and pepper. Simmer on low for 10-15 minutes, then stir in the Italian seasoning. Set aside.

          Mix the Waffle Ingredients:

            - In a large mixing bowl, combine the grated zucchini, flour, Parmesan, egg, milk, baking powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until a thick batter forms.

              Preheat the Waffle Iron:

                - Preheat your waffle iron and lightly spray it with olive oil spray to prevent sticking.

                  Cook the Zucchini Waffles:

                    - Pour batter into the preheated waffle iron, using about 1/3 cup of batter for each waffle. Close the lid and cook for about 4-5 minutes or until golden brown and crisp. Repeat until all batter is used.

                      Assemble the Sliders:

                        - Once the waffles are done, let them cool slightly. Take one waffle, top it with a spoonful of marinara sauce, sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese, and add another waffle on top to create a slider. Optionally, you can add extra marinara and fresh basil in between.

                          Serve:

                            - Serve the Mini Zucchini Parm Waffle Sliders warm with a side of extra marinara sauce for dipping.

                              Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 30 mins | 50 mins | 6 servings (12 sliders)