Cucumber Sticks
Crispy cucumber sticks with a seasoned breadcrumb coating offer a crunchy, flavorful snack or appetizer, perfect for parties or light bites with a savory, satisfying crunch.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Pare cucumbers and cut into sticks lengthwise.
- Dry slices with paper towels.
- Season the cucumber sticks with salt and pepper.
- Dip the cucumber sticks in seasoned bread crumbs, then in beaten egg, then in bread crumbs again.
- Fry in olive oil until golden brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra crunch, consider using panko bread crumbs instead of regular Italian seasoned bread crumbs. If you prefer a lighter option, you can bake the cucumber sticks instead of frying them. Simply spray them with olive oil and bake at 400°F until golden. Ensure the cucumbers are thoroughly dried after washing to help the coating adhere better.
Serving Suggestions
These cucumber sticks make a delightful appetizer or snack, perfect for dipping in sauces like tzatziki or ranch dressing. For a complete meal, serve alongside grilled chicken or a fresh salad. They also pair beautifully with Mediterranean recipes, adding a refreshing crunch to any spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover cucumber sticks in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes to restore their crispiness. Avoid microwaving as it can make them soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cucumber Sticks contains roughly 323 calories, with 5g protein, 63g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is a good source of calcium (13% of the Daily Value) and protein (11% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1981mg per serving (86% 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 use other vegetables instead of cucumbers?
Yes, you can substitute cucumbers with zucchini or eggplant for a similar preparation. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time as denser vegetables may take longer to cook.
What oil is best for frying the cucumber sticks?
Olive oil is a great choice for frying due to its flavor and health benefits. However, you can also use vegetable or canola oil if you prefer a higher smoke point or a more neutral taste.
Can I make these cucumber sticks ahead of time?
While it's best to fry them just before serving for maximum crispiness, you can prepare the cucumber sticks and coat them in bread crumbs earlier in the day. Store them in the refrigerator until you're ready to fry.
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).