Zucchini Fritti Or Fried Squash
Crispy zucchini fritters with a savory Romano cheese and parsley topping offer a delightful snack or side, boasting crispy edges and tender centers perfect for casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Wash and scrape the zucchini lightly.
- Cut the zucchini crosswise into 1/2-inch slices.
- Fry the zucchini slices in hot oil for about 3 minutes or until slightly brown and soft.
- Sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
- Top each slice with chopped parsley and grated Romano cheese.
- Serve hot.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra crunch, consider using a light coating of flour or breadcrumbs on the zucchini slices before frying. If Romano cheese is unavailable, Parmesan can be a great substitute. Additionally, adding a pinch of garlic powder to the oil can enhance the flavor. Make sure the oil is hot enough to prevent the zucchini from absorbing too much oil, ensuring a crispy texture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Zucchini Fritti as a delightful appetizer or snack, perhaps alongside a refreshing tzatziki for dipping. They also pair beautifully with Mediterranean recipes, or can be served as a side dish with grilled meats. Consider complementing the meal with a light salad, like Green Bean, Walnut, Mint And Feta Salad, to balance the richness of the fried zucchini.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Zucchini Fritti in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place the zucchini slices on a baking sheet and warm them in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes, which will help restore their crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as this can make them soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Zucchini Fritti Or Fried Squash contains roughly 694 calories, with 3g protein, 1g carbohydrates, and 77g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 982mg per serving (43% 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 zucchini?
Absolutely! You can substitute zucchini with other vegetables like eggplant, yellow squash, or even mushrooms. Just adjust the cooking time as needed since different vegetables may fry at different rates.
What oil is best for frying zucchini?
Using oils with a high smoke point, like canola, vegetable, or peanut oil, is recommended for frying zucchini. These oils can withstand the high temperatures needed for frying without burning, ensuring a crispy result.
Can I make Zucchini Fritti in advance?
While Zucchini Fritti is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the zucchini slices and refrigerate them ahead of time. Fry them just before serving for the best texture. If making in advance, reheat in the oven to regain crispiness.
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).