Crispy Zucchini Spears
Crispy zucchini spears offer a crunchy, flavorful snack or side with a golden coating, perfect for veggie lovers and party plates seeking a tasty, guilt-free treat.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine egg and milk in a small bowl.
- In another bowl, mix together flour, cornmeal, garlic powder, pepper, and salt.
- Dip each zucchini spear into the egg/milk mixture, then coat well in the dry mixture.
- Heat oil in a skillet or deep fryer until hot.
- Fry the coated zucchini spears until crisp and brown, about 2-3 minutes per batch.
- Drain on paper towels and serve immediately.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra crunch, consider adding grated parmesan cheese to the dry mixture. If you want a gluten-free option, use almond flour instead of regular flour. Make sure the oil is hot enough before frying to achieve that perfect crispiness. Using a thermometer can help maintain the right frying temperature.
Serving Suggestions
These crispy zucchini spears are perfect as a snack or appetizer and pair beautifully with a dipping sauce like ranch or marinara. Serve alongside a fresh salad or as a side to grilled meats for a complete meal. They also complement vegetarian recipes well, adding a delightful crunch.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover crispy zucchini spears in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in an oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes to regain their crispiness, rather than microwaving, which can make them soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Crispy Zucchini Spears contains roughly 436 calories, with 8g protein, 86g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (33% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 749mg per serving (33% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I bake these zucchini spears instead of frying them?
Yes, you can bake the zucchini spears for a healthier option. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C), place the coated spears on a greased baking sheet, and bake for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
What can I substitute for cornmeal?
If you don't have cornmeal on hand, you can use breadcrumbs or crushed crackers as a substitute. This will still give a nice texture and flavor to the zucchini spears while maintaining their crispy coating.
How do I know when the zucchini spears are done frying?
The zucchini spears are done when they are golden brown and crispy, which typically takes about 2-3 minutes per batch. Keep an eye on them, as frying times may vary based on the oil temperature and the size of the spears.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).