This crispy pan-fried zucchini is a tasty side dish that’s quick and easy to make. With just a few slices of zucchini and some seasoning, you’re set for a delightful treat!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchinis: Fresh, firm zucchinis work best for this dish. If you can’t find zucchinis, yellow squash can make a great substitute.
Parmesan Cheese: While this adds delicious flavor, you can skip it or use nutritional yeast for a vegan option.
Breadcrumbs: I suggest using panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch, but regular breadcrumbs or crushed crackers can work too. For gluten-free, look for gluten-free breadcrumbs.
Oil: I prefer using olive oil, but vegetable oil or avocado oil are good choices as well for frying.
How Do I Get My Zucchini Crispy?
The key to achieving that perfect crispiness is in the coating and frying method. First, make sure to coat each zucchini slice evenly with the flour, egg, and breadcrumbs. This helps create a solid layer that crisps up nicely.
- Heat your oil to the right temperature—350°F (175°C) is ideal. Too cool and they’ll soak up oil; too hot and they’ll burn.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan! Fry in batches if needed so that the slices get good contact with the hot oil.
- Let them drain on paper towels after frying to keep them crispy.
These small tips can make a big difference in your final dish! Enjoy your cooking! 🍽️
How to Make Crispy Pan Fried Zucchini
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Zucchini:
- 2 medium zucchinis
For the Breading:
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional for extra flavor)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (panko recommended for extra crispiness)
For Frying:
- Vegetable oil or olive oil, for frying
For Garnish (optional):
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped
- Lemon wedges
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 15 minutes to cook. So, you can have delicious crispy zucchini ready in about 25 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Zucchini:
Start by washing and drying the zucchinis. Cut off the ends and slice them into 1/4 inch thick rounds. This makes them the perfect size for frying and ensures they cook evenly.
2. Set Up the Breading Station:
Get three shallow bowls ready for your breading station. In Bowl 1, mix together the flour, Parmesan cheese (if you’re using it), garlic powder, salt, and pepper. In Bowl 2, beat the egg with the milk until well combined. Bowl 3 will hold the breadcrumbs.
3. Coat the Zucchini Slices:
Take each zucchini slice and dip it first into the flour mixture, making sure to coat both sides. Next, dip it into the egg mixture, and finally, press it into the breadcrumbs until fully coated. Repeat this for all the zucchini slices.
4. Heat the Oil:
In a large skillet, heat about 1/4 inch of oil over medium heat. You can test if the oil is ready by dropping a tiny piece of bread into it; if it sizzles, the oil is hot enough!
5. Fry the Zucchini:
Carefully place the breaded zucchini slices in the pan, making sure not to overcrowd them. Fry each side for about 2-3 minutes, or until they turn golden brown and crispy.
6. Drain Excess Oil:
Once they’re done frying, remove the zucchini slices from the skillet and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. This keeps them nice and crispy!
7. Repeat and Serve:
Continue frying the remaining zucchini slices, adding more oil to the pan as needed. Serve your crispy fried zucchini immediately, garnished with fresh herbs and lemon wedges if you like. Enjoy this tasty dish as a side or snack!
Enjoy your delicious crispy pan-fried zucchini—perfect for sharing with family and friends!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Gluten-Free Flour for Breading?
Absolutely! You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just ensure the breadcrumbs you use are also gluten-free, and you’ll have a delicious dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivities!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Zucchini?
Store any leftover crispy zucchini in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To maintain their crispiness, reheat them in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes until warmed through, instead of using the microwave, which can make them soggy.
Can I Add Other Seasonings or Spices?
Definitely! Feel free to experiment with seasonings. Adding paprika, Italian seasoning, or even a pinch of cayenne pepper can enhance the flavors. Just adjust to your taste preferences!
Can I Freeze the Fried Zucchini?
While fresh fried zucchini is best enjoyed right away, you can freeze them. Lay them out on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid. Then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months. To reheat, bake in the oven until crispy again!