Crispy Pan Fried Zucchini is a tasty treat that’s super easy to make! Thinly sliced zucchini gets a golden, crunchy coating that makes it hard to resist.
Who knew that veggies could be this fun? I love pairing them with a dip or just munching on them as a snack. Perfect for any meal or just when you’re feeling snacky! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: Fresh, medium zucchinis are the star here. Try to pick ones that are firm and glossy. If zucchini isn’t available, consider using eggplant or yellow squash as a great alternative.
Breadcrumbs: I like panko for its extra crunchiness, but regular breadcrumbs work just as well! Gluten-free breadcrumbs can be an alternative, especially for those with gluten sensitivities.
Parmesan Cheese: While it’s optional, I recommend using it for added flavor. If you’re avoiding dairy, nutritional yeast can give you a cheesy taste without the milk.
Garlic Powder: If you prefer fresh, one clove of minced garlic can do the trick instead of powder. Adjust to your taste!
How Do You Achieve Perfectly Crispy Zucchini?
Getting that perfect crunch involves a few simple steps. First, the breading process is essential. Make sure to coat the zucchini slices properly by following the flour, egg, and breadcrumb order. This creates a barrier that helps to keep the crispy texture.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan as this can lower the oil temperature, making them soggy instead of crispy.
- Keep the oil at a medium heat – if it’s too hot, the zucchini may burn before cooking through.
- And remember to drain them on paper towels immediately after frying to remove any excess oil!
How to Make Crispy Pan Fried Zucchini
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Fresh Produce:
- 2 medium zucchinis
Breading Components:
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for extra flavor)
Seasoning:
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp dried Italian herbs or oregano
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For Frying:
- Vegetable oil or olive oil
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley or basil (optional)
- Lemon wedges (optional, for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and about 10 minutes for cooking. In total, you should plan for around 25-30 minutes to have a delicious snack or side dish ready for you!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Zucchini:
Start by washing and drying the zucchinis. Cut off both ends and slice them into 1/4-inch thick rounds or, if you prefer, you can cut them into long strips. This offers a fun change in shape!
2. Set Up Your Breading Station:
Now it’s time to create a breading station. Grab three shallow dishes. In the first, add the flour. In the second dish, beat the eggs until they are well mixed. In the third dish, mix together the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese (if you’re using it), garlic powder, dried herbs, salt, and black pepper. This makes the coating extra tasty!
3. Coat the Zucchini:
Take each zucchini slice and dip it into the flour, covering both sides lightly. Next, transfer it to the beaten eggs, allowing the excess to drip off. Finally, coat the slice in the breadcrumb mixture. Make sure to press gently so the crumbs stick well!
4. Heat the Oil:
In a large skillet, heat about 1/4 inch of oil over medium heat. You want it hot, but not smoking. You can test if the oil is ready by dropping a tiny bit of breadcrumb in; it should sizzle when it’s good to go!
5. Fry the Zucchini:
Carefully place the coated zucchini slices in the skillet in batches, ensuring you don’t overcrowd the pan. Fry for about 2-3 minutes on one side, then flip to cook the other side until they are golden brown and crispy. Cooking in batches helps to keep everything nice and crunchy!
6. Drain the Zucchini:
Once cooked, remove the zucchini slices from the skillet and place them on paper towels to drain any excess oil. This step is important to keep them crispy.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve these delicious crispy zucchini warm, garnished with fresh parsley or basil, and a squeeze of lemon for an extra zing! Enjoy your tasty treat!
Happy cooking! 🎉
Can I Use Other Vegetables Instead of Zucchini?
Absolutely! You can substitute zucchini with eggplant, yellow squash, or even sliced bell peppers. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time as needed based on the vegetable’s thickness!
How Do I Keep the Zucchini Crispy After Cooking?
To keep the zucchini crispy, avoid stacking them on top of each other after frying. Place them on a wire rack instead of a plate, allowing air to circulate around them. You can also keep them in a warm oven (around 200°F) while you fry the rest.
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Yes, you can switch the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and use gluten-free breadcrumbs instead. This way, you can enjoy delicious crispy zucchini without worrying about gluten!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Zucchini?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes to restore some crispiness.
