Why make this recipe
Fried Zucchini is a fantastic way to enjoy this healthy vegetable. It transforms simple zucchini slices into a crunchy and tasty snack or side dish. Perfect for family gatherings or a cozy dinner, this recipe is easy to make and loved by kids and adults alike. Plus, it’s a great way to incorporate more veggies into your diet without sacrificing flavor!
How to make Fried Zucchini
Ingredients:
- Vegetable oil, (for frying), 2-3 cups
- Milk, 3 cups
- All-purpose flour, 2 cups
- Panko bread crumbs, (plain or Italian), 2 cups
- Two medium zucchinis, (sliced at an angle about ¼ inch thick)
Directions:
- Fill a frying pan with ¼-½ inch of oil and heat it over medium heat until it reaches 350-375 degrees F.
- While the oil is heating, place milk in a medium bowl, pour flour into a gallon-sized resealable plastic bag, and add breadcrumbs to another gallon-sized resealable plastic bag.
- Working in batches, add the zucchini slices to the milk. Then, transfer them to the bag with flour. Shake the bag to coat all sides with flour.
- Return the zucchini slices to the milk, ensuring they are coated on all sides. Then, place the slices into the breadcrumbs bag and shake to coat.
- Fry the zucchini in batches in the hot oil for 1-2 minutes on each side or until they turn golden brown. Place the fried zucchini on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
- Repeat this process until all the slices are breaded and fried. Serve the zucchini warm with your favorite dip.
How to serve Fried Zucchini
Fried Zucchini can be enjoyed immediately while it’s still warm. You can serve it with a variety of dips such as ranch dressing, marinara sauce, or a spicy aioli. They make a great appetizer, snack, or side dish to accompany your main meal.
How to store Fried Zucchini
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a hot oven or air fryer for a few minutes to regain their crispiness.
Tips to make Fried Zucchini
- Ensure the oil is at the right temperature before frying to achieve a crispy texture.
- Don’t overcrowd the frying pan; this helps to keep the oil temperature steady.
- For extra flavor, you can mix in some herbs and spices into the flour or breadcrumbs.
Variation
You can add different seasonings to the flour or breadcrumbs to create various flavors. For example, try adding garlic powder, Italian seasoning, or even some parmesan cheese for a cheesy twist!
FAQs
1. Can I bake the zucchini instead of frying it?
Yes, you can bake the zucchini! Preheat the oven to 425 degrees F, place the coated zucchini on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and bake for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
2. How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
You can use gluten-free flour and gluten-free breadcrumbs to make Fried Zucchini gluten-free.
3. What dips go well with fried zucchini?
Fried Zucchini pairs well with ranch dressing, marinara sauce, tzatziki, or even a simple squeeze of lemon juice.
4. Can I use other vegetables?
Absolutely! You can use a similar method to fry other vegetables like eggplant, mushrooms, or even green tomatoes. Just adjust the cooking time depending on the vegetable used.
Fried Zucchini
Ingredients
Method
- Fill a frying pan with ¼-½ inch of oil and heat it over medium heat until it reaches 350-375 degrees F.
- While the oil is heating, place milk in a medium bowl, pour flour into a gallon-sized resealable plastic bag, and add breadcrumbs to another gallon-sized resealable plastic bag.
- Working in batches, add the zucchini slices to the milk. Then, transfer them to the bag with flour. Shake the bag to coat all sides with flour.
- Return the zucchini slices to the milk, ensuring they are coated on all sides. Then, place the slices into the breadcrumbs bag and shake to coat.
- Fry the zucchini in batches in the hot oil for 1-2 minutes on each side or until they turn golden brown.
- Place the fried zucchini on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
- Repeat this process until all the slices are breaded and fried.
- Serve the zucchini warm with your favorite dip such as ranch dressing, marinara sauce, or a spicy aioli.