Fried Zucchini
Fried zucchini slices offer a crispy, flavorful snack or side dish with a savory bread crumb coating seasoned with Old Bay. Perfect for summer gatherings or casual meals, this dish combines tender zucchini with a crunchy exterior, appealing to both vegetable lovers and those seeking a tasty appetizer.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Slice the zucchini into rounds.
- Dredge each zucchini slice in flour.
- Mix the egg and milk together.
- Dip the floured zucchini slices into the milk/egg mixture.
- Roll the coated zucchini slices in the bread crumbs seasoned with Old Bay.
- Let the coated slices set for 1 hour.
- Heat oil in a frying pan over medium heat.
- Fry the zucchini slices until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side.
- Drain on paper towels and serve hot.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider adding grated Parmesan cheese to the bread crumbs. If you don’t have Old Bay seasoning, a mix of paprika, garlic powder, and black pepper can work as a substitute. Make sure your oil is hot enough before frying to achieve that crispy texture; a drop of batter should sizzle upon contact. For a lighter version, try baking instead of frying.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the fried zucchini hot, garnished with a sprinkle of sea salt and a squeeze of lemon for brightness. They pair beautifully with a side of marinara sauce for dipping or alongside a fresh salad like Strawberry Cheese Salad. For a complete meal, consider serving them with a protein like grilled chicken or fish.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover fried zucchini in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes. This helps restore their crispiness. Avoid using the microwave, as it can make them soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Fried Zucchini contains roughly 601 calories, with 6g protein, 69g carbohydrates, and 34g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (26% of the Daily Value) and calcium (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and vitamin C.
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 zucchini?
Yes, you can substitute zucchini with other vegetables like eggplant, yellow squash, or even mushrooms. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time as needed, especially for denser vegetables.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make fried zucchini gluten-free, use a gluten-free all-purpose flour and substitute the bread crumbs with crushed gluten-free crackers or a gluten-free breadcrumbs blend. This way, you can enjoy the dish without gluten.
What can I do with leftovers?
Leftover fried zucchini can be incorporated into a salad for added crunch or mixed into a pasta dish. You could also chop them up and add them to a frittata for a delicious breakfast option.
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).