This crispy pan-fried zucchini is a quick and tasty side dish! It’s golden, crunchy, and packed with flavor. You only need fresh zucchini, some spices, and a bit of oil.
Honestly, it’s hard to stop munching on these delicious bites. I sometimes make extra just for snack time! Perfect with a dip or on its own—so easy and fun to make!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: Look for firm, bright green zucchinis. If you can’t find zucchinis, yellow squash works as a great substitute – you’ll get similar flavor and texture.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan gives these zucchini extra flavor. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try nutritional yeast or a dairy-free cheese alternative.
Breadcrumbs: I love using panko breadcrumbs for that extra crunch. If you don’t have panko, regular breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes will also create a nice crispy coating.
Flour: All-purpose flour is standard, but whole wheat flour or even chickpea flour can be good substitutes for a healthier option.
How Do You Get the Zucchini Crispy Without Sogginess?
The key to crispy zucchini is not to skip the coating steps and to manage moisture. Here’s how to ensure perfect crunch:
- Slice the zucchini thinly; this helps in achieving a crisp texture.
- Salt the zucchini slices and let them sit for about 10 minutes. This draws out moisture. Pat them dry with a paper towel before coating.
- Use medium heat when frying. If it’s too high, the outside will burn before the inside cooks.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan while frying, as this traps steam and can make them soggy.
These little tips will make your zucchini crispy and delicious every time! Enjoy your cooking!
How to Make Crispy Pan Fried Zucchini
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 medium zucchinis
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (or dried oregano/basil)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crispiness)
- 2-3 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil for frying
- Optional: fresh parsley or grated Parmesan for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This crispy pan-fried zucchini recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and about 10 minutes to cook, making the total time around 25 minutes. It’s a quick and easy side dish perfect for any meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Zucchini:
Start by washing the zucchinis to remove any dirt. Then, slice them into thin rounds, aiming for about 1/4 inch thick. This helps them cook evenly and become nice and crispy.
2. Make the Coating:
In a shallow bowl, mix together the all-purpose flour, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, dried Italian herbs, salt, and pepper. This mixture will give your zucchini a delicious flavor and help the coating stick.
3. Set up the Breading Stations:
In another bowl, beat the eggs until they are smooth. In a third bowl, put your breadcrumbs. You’re now ready to coat the zucchini slices!
4. Coat the Zucchini:
Take each zucchini slice and dip it into the flour mixture first, ensuring it’s evenly coated. Then, dip it into the beaten eggs. Finally, roll it in the breadcrumbs, pressing down lightly to make sure they stick well. Repeat this with all the slices.
5. Heat the Oil:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. You want enough oil to cover the bottom of the pan so that the zucchini can fry without sticking.
6. Fry the Zucchini:
Carefully add the coated zucchini slices to the skillet in batches. Make sure not to overcrowd the pan, as this can prevent them from getting crispy. Fry them for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown.
7. Drain Excess Oil:
Once the zucchini is crispy and golden, transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate. This will help soak up any extra oil, keeping them crispy.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your crispy pan-fried zucchini warm, garnished with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan if you like. They’re perfect as a side dish or a flavorful snack!
Enjoy your delicious crispy pan-fried zucchini!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Different Types of Zucchini?
Absolutely! While the recipe calls for green zucchinis, you can also use yellow squash or even pattypan squash for a different flavor and color. Just make sure they are firm and fresh.
How Do I Store Leftover Fried Zucchini?
Store any leftover crispy zucchini in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place them in a hot skillet for a few minutes until they’re crispy again—it’s the best way to keep them crunchy!
What Can I Use Instead of Eggs for Coating?
If you’re looking for an egg substitute, you can use a flaxseed meal or chia seed mixture (1 tablespoon of seeds mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water, let it sit until it thickens). Alternatively, unsweetened applesauce or a non-dairy milk mixed with a bit of flour can work as a binder too!
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Yes! You can easily make this recipe gluten-free by swapping out the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend and using gluten-free breadcrumbs. It will still be delicious and crispy!
