This crispy pan-fried zucchini is a quick and tasty side dish! Just slice the zucchini, coat it in a bit of flour, and fry it until golden. Yum!
Honestly, it’s hard to believe something so simple can be so delicious. I often make it as a snack too. Who could resist those crunchy bites? 🥒😋
Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: Fresh, firm zucchinis are key for a good crunch. If zucchinis aren’t available, try yellow squash for a similar texture.
Flour: All-purpose flour works great, but whole wheat flour or gluten-free flour can be used if you have dietary restrictions.
Breadcrumbs: I love using Italian seasoned breadcrumbs for added flavor. You can substitute with panko for an extra crunchy texture!
Parmesan Cheese: While optional, cheese adds a nice touch. Nutritional yeast is a good dairy-free alternative, giving a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
Oil: Olive oil is my go-to for frying, but any light oil like vegetable or canola will work well.
How Do You Get the Zucchini Crispy?
To achieve that crispy texture, the breading process is essential. Follow these steps for the best results:
- Make sure to fully coat each zucchini slice with flour, egg, and breadcrumbs—this layer traps the moisture and creates that crunchy outside.
- Preheat the oil properly. The oil should shimmer but not smoke. A hot oil ensures quick frying, making them crispier.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet. Fry in batches so that each slice cooks evenly and becomes crispy.
Lastly, draining on paper towels will help remove any excess oil, keeping your zucchini crunchy and light!
Crispy Pan Fried Zucchini
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 medium zucchinis
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (plain or Italian seasoned)
- Vegetable oil or olive oil for frying
- Fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional)
- Lemon wedges for serving (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 15 minutes of preparation and 10-15 minutes of frying. In total, you can have crispy pan-fried zucchini ready in approximately 30 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Zucchini:
Start by washing and thoroughly drying the zucchinis. Slice them into 1/4-inch thick rounds or half-moons, depending on your preference. The slices should be evenly cut for consistent cooking.
2. Set Up Your Breading Station:
In a shallow dish, mix together the flour, salt, black pepper, garlic powder (if using), and Parmesan cheese (if desired). In another bowl, beat the eggs. Then, place the breadcrumbs in a third shallow dish, ready for coating.
3. Coat the Zucchini Slices:
Take each zucchini slice and dip it first into the flour mixture, shaking off any excess. Next, dip it into the beaten eggs, and finally, coat it well with the breadcrumbs. Ensure each slice is fully covered to get that nice crispy texture.
4. Heat the Oil:
In a large skillet, pour about 1/4 inch of your chosen oil and heat over medium heat. Wait until the oil is shimmering but not smoking—this indicates it’s hot enough for frying!
5. Fry the Zucchini:
Carefully place the breaded zucchini slices into the hot oil in batches. Avoid overcrowding the pan so they cook evenly. Fry for about 2-3 minutes on each side or until they turn golden brown and crispy.
6. Drain Excess Oil:
Once fried, transfer the zucchini to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil. This step keeps them crispy and light!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Repeat the frying process with all zucchini slices. Once everything is cooked, serve the crispy pan-fried zucchini hot, garnished with chopped parsley or basil, and with lemon wedges on the side for a refreshing squeeze.
Enjoy your crispy pan-fried zucchini as a delightful snack or a side dish! Bon appétit!
FAQ for Crispy Pan Fried Zucchini
Can I Use Other Vegetables Instead of Zucchini?
Absolutely! This breading technique works well with eggplant, yellow squash, or even thinly sliced bell peppers. Just adjust the cooking time as needed, since different vegetables have varying moisture levels.
What If I Don’t Have Breadcrumbs?
No worries! You can use crushed crackers or chips as a substitute for breadcrumbs. Alternatively, if you want a healthier option, ground nuts like almonds or walnuts can add a delicious crunch!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover crispy zucchini in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To keep them crispy, try reheating them in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes, rather than using the microwave.
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour and use gluten-free breadcrumbs. Rice flour is also an excellent alternative for the coating, giving a delightful crunch!
