This quick and crispy Parmesan-crusted zucchini recipe is a delicious way to enjoy zucchini as a snack or appetizer. Coated in a flavorful mixture of Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, and spices, these zucchini slices are fried to golden perfection, creating a crunchy exterior while keeping the zucchini tender inside.
Ingredients:
- 2 zucchini
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 100 grams Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 teaspoon dried marjoram
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 3 eggs, beaten
- 100 grams breadcrumbs
- 50 grams all-purpose flour
- Olive oil, for frying
Instructions:
- Prepare Zucchini:
- Wash the zucchini thoroughly. Cut off the ends and slice them into rounds or sticks, about 1/4 to 1/2 inch thick.
- Season Zucchini:
- In a bowl, season the zucchini slices with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Prepare Breading Station:
- Set up a breading station with three shallow bowls or plates:
- Bowl 1: All-purpose flour
- Bowl 2: Beaten eggs
- Bowl 3: Mix breadcrumbs with grated Parmesan cheese, dried marjoram, and paprika.
- Coat Zucchini:
- Dip each zucchini slice first into the flour (shake off excess), then into the beaten eggs, and finally coat evenly with the breadcrumb-Parmesan mixture. Press gently to ensure the breadcrumbs adhere well.
- Fry Zucchini:
- In a large skillet or frying pan, heat enough olive oil over medium-high heat to cover the bottom of the pan.
- Fry Until Crispy:
- Carefully place the breaded zucchini slices in the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry in batches if necessary, about 2-3 minutes per side or until golden brown and crispy.
- Drain and Serve:
- Once crispy and golden, remove the fried zucchini slices from the oil and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
Serving Suggestion:
- Serve the Parmesan-crusted zucchini slices immediately while hot and crispy. They can be enjoyed on their own as a snack or appetizer, or paired with a dipping sauce like marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or garlic aioli.
Notes:
- Ensure the oil is hot enough before frying to achieve a crispy texture.
- Adjust the seasoning according to your preference.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheated in the oven to maintain crispiness.
Time:
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
FAQs:
Q: Can I bake these instead of frying?
A: Yes, you can bake the breaded zucchini slices in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.
Q: Can I use different cheeses for this recipe?
A: Yes, you can experiment with different cheeses such as cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend of cheeses to create different flavor profiles.
Q: How do I prevent the breading from falling off during frying?
A: Make sure to press the breadcrumb mixture onto the zucchini slices firmly after dipping them in the egg wash. Also, do not overcrowd the pan while frying and ensure the oil is at the right temperature.
Enjoy making and savoring this crispy and flavorful Parmesan-crusted zucchini!
Recipe Card
the quick and crispy Parmesan-crusted zucchini
Ingredients
- – 2 zucchini
- – Salt to taste
- – Black pepper to taste
- – 100 grams Parmesan cheese grated
- – 1 teaspoon dried marjoram
- – 1 teaspoon paprika
- – 3 eggs beaten
- – 100 grams breadcrumbs
- – 50 grams all-purpose flour
- – Olive oil for frying
Instructions
Prepare Zucchini:
- – Wash the zucchini thoroughly. Cut off the ends and slice them into rounds or sticks, about 1/4 to 1/2 inch thick.
Season Zucchini:
- – In a bowl, season the zucchini slices with salt and black pepper to taste.
Prepare Breading Station:
- – Set up a breading station with three shallow bowls or plates:
- – Bowl 1: All-purpose flour
- – Bowl 2: Beaten eggs
- – Bowl 3: Mix breadcrumbs with grated Parmesan cheese, dried marjoram, and paprika.
Coat Zucchini:
- – Dip each zucchini slice first into the flour (shake off excess), then into the beaten eggs, and finally coat evenly with the breadcrumb-Parmesan mixture. Press gently to ensure the breadcrumbs adhere well.
Fry Zucchini:
- – In a large skillet or frying pan, heat enough olive oil over medium-high heat to cover the bottom of the pan.
Fry Until Crispy:
- – Carefully place the breaded zucchini slices in the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry in batches if necessary, about 2-3 minutes per side or until golden brown and crispy.
Drain and Serve:
- – Once crispy and golden, remove the fried zucchini slices from the oil and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.