Crispy Fried Zucchini Recipe: A Delicious Summer Appetizer
Looking for a perfect way to use up fresh zucchini from your garden or the farmers’ market? This crispy fried zucchini recipe is a delicious appetizer or side dish that’s easy to make and incredibly flavorful. Follow these simple steps to create golden-brown, irresistible fried zucchini at home.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium zucchini
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup breadcrumbs (regular or panko)
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (or dried herbs of your choice)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
Prepare the Zucchini:
1. Thoroughly wash the zucchini under cold water. Trim off the ends and slice the zucchini into rounds, about 1/4 to 1/2 inch thick.
Set Up the Breading Station:
2. In three separate shallow dishes or bowls, set up a breading station. Place the flour in one bowl, beat the eggs in another bowl, and combine the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese (if using), garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper in the third bowl.
Bread the Zucchini:
3. Dip each zucchini round into the flour, coating it evenly on all sides and shaking off any excess.
4. Next, dip the floured zucchini round into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess egg to drip off.
5. Finally, coat the zucchini round in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere the breadcrumbs to the zucchini.
Fry the Zucchini:
6. In a large skillet or frying pan, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it reaches about 350°F (175°C).
7. Carefully place the breaded zucchini rounds in the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. You may need to fry the zucchini in batches.
8. Fry the zucchini rounds for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy.
9. Use a slotted spoon or tongs to transfer the fried zucchini to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
Serve:
10. Once all the zucchini rounds are fried, transfer them to a serving platter.
11. Serve the fried zucchini immediately, while they are still hot and crispy.
12. Enjoy them as is or with your favorite dipping sauce, such as marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or aioli.
Enjoy:
13. Relish the crispy, golden-brown goodness of homemade fried zucchini as a delicious appetizer, snack, or side dish!
This simple fried zucchini recipe is perfect for enjoying the abundance of zucchini during the summer months. The combination of fresh zucchini, savory breadcrumbs, and optional Parmesan cheese creates an appetizer that’s both satisfying and crowd-pleasing. Try it today for a tasty way to savor summer’s bounty!
