Are you craving a light, crispy, and utterly delicious side dish that's surprisingly simple to make? Look no further than this fantastic fried zucchini recipe, inspired by the beloved Carrabba's Italian Grill. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner, a weekend brunch, or even a special occasion. It's one of those easy recipes that delivers big on flavor and texture, making it a true crowd-pleaser. Get ready to experience the magic of homemade cooking with this healthy and quick dinner idea!
Ingredients:
- 2 medium zucchini, thinly sliced (about 1/4-inch thick)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- Vegetable oil, for frying
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Zucchini
Wash and thoroughly dry the zucchini. This is crucial for achieving a perfectly crispy texture. Using a mandoline slicer or a sharp knife, slice the zucchini into even, thin rounds. Pat them dry again with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
Step 2: Make the Breading Mixture
In a large shallow dish, whisk together the flour, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, basil, and Parmesan cheese. Make sure all the spices are evenly distributed.
Step 3: Bread the Zucchini
Dip each zucchini slice into the beaten eggs, ensuring it’s fully coated. Then, dredge it in the flour mixture, pressing gently to ensure the breading adheres well. Make sure to shake off any excess flour.
Step 4: Fry the Zucchini
Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot (a pinch of flour should sizzle immediately), carefully place the breaded zucchini slices in the skillet, working in batches to avoid overcrowding. Overcrowding will lower the oil temperature and result in soggy zucchini.
Step 5: Cook to Perfection
Fry the zucchini for approximately 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. Use tongs to gently flip the slices.
Step 6: Drain and Serve
Once cooked, remove the zucchini from the skillet and place it on a wire rack or paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Serve immediately while hot and crispy.
Cooking Tips for the Best Fried Zucchini:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: This will lower the oil temperature and lead to soggy zucchini. Fry in batches for optimal results.
- Use a good quality oil: Vegetable oil with a high smoke point is ideal for frying.
- Pat the zucchini dry: Excess moisture is the enemy of crispy fried foods.
- Don't overcook: Overcooked zucchini will be tough and dry. Fry until golden brown and crispy.
Variations:
- Spicy Zucchini: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the flour mixture for a spicy kick.
- Herby Zucchini: Experiment with different herbs and spices like thyme, rosemary, or Italian seasoning.
- Cheesy Zucchini: Sprinkle extra Parmesan cheese over the zucchini after frying for extra cheesiness.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on serving size and oil used. However, a general estimate for a serving of approximately 4-5 pieces of fried zucchini would be approximately:
- Calories: 150-200
- Fat: 10-15g
- Protein: 2-3g
- Carbohydrates: 15-20g
This easy and delicious fried zucchini recipe is a fantastic addition to any meal. Enjoy this healthy and flavorful side dish, perfect for those who are looking for quick dinner ideas or best recipes without sacrificing taste. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that's sure to become a staple in your kitchen!