Breaded zucchini with garlic sauce

Breaded zucchini with garlic sauce – A delicious and easy recipe

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Have you ever had a lazy afternoon where you thought about turning simple ingredients from your fridge into a delight that would tantalize your taste buds? Breaded zucchini with garlic sauce is exactly what you're looking for! This recipe is not only quick and simple, but it also offers an explosion of flavors that will make every meal special. An ideal dish for a family dinner or to impress friends at a party!

The history of this dish takes us back to ancient culinary traditions, where vegetables were cooked in creative ways to highlight their natural flavor. Zucchini, with their delicate texture and slightly sweet taste, are often used in various dishes. Combined with a simple yet flavorful garlic sauce, these zucchinis become a perfect choice for any meal.

Ingredients:

For the breaded zucchini:
- 1 medium-sized zucchini
- 1 egg
- 4-5 tablespoons flour
- 4-5 tablespoons breadcrumbs
- ½ cup slightly salted cheese (preferably telemea or goat cheese)
- Salt, pepper, vegeta (or other preferred spices)
- Fresh dill, finely chopped
- Fresh parsley for garnish
- Oil for frying

For the sauce:
- 2-3 cloves of garlic
- 1 tomato
- A splash of oil
- Salt

Step by step to the tastiest breaded zucchini:

1. Preparing the zucchini:
Start by washing the zucchini well under cold running water. It is essential to remove any impurities, as the zucchini will be consumed with the skin, which may contain pesticide residues. Then, peel it with a peeler or a sharp knife. Cut the zucchini into slices about 1 cm thick. These slices should be thick enough to withstand the frying process without breaking apart.

2. Preparing the egg mixture:
In a bowl, beat the egg with a pinch of salt, vegeta, pepper, and finely chopped dill. The dill will add a fresh and pleasant flavor, complementing the taste of the zucchini. Make sure the mixture is well homogenized to evenly coat the zucchinis.

3. Mixing breadcrumbs with cheese:
Grate the cheese and mix it with the breadcrumbs in another bowl. This combination will provide a crispy, delicious, and flavorful crust. If you want a spicier version, you can also add a pinch of paprika or another preferred spice.

4. Dipping the zucchinis in flour and mixtures:
Now, take each slice of zucchini and dip it in flour, ensuring it is evenly coated. Then, dip it in the egg mixture and finally in the breadcrumb and cheese mixture. This process may seem simple, but it is essential for achieving a perfectly crispy crust.

5. Frying the zucchinis:
In a deep pan, heat enough oil for frying. Test the oil temperature by throwing in a handful of breadcrumbs; if they start to sizzle, the oil is ready. Fry the zucchinis on both sides until they turn golden and crispy, about 2-3 minutes on each side. Do not overcrowd the pan, as this will lower the oil temperature and lead to uneven frying.

6. Draining the oil:
After frying the zucchinis, remove them onto a paper towel to drain excess oil. This step is important for achieving a healthier and less greasy dish.

Preparing the garlic sauce:

1. Crushing the garlic:
Peel the garlic cloves and crush them in a mortar or with a garlic press. Add a pinch of salt and a splash of oil and rub well with a teaspoon until the garlic becomes a smooth paste. This method will help the garlic release its intense flavors.

2. Preparing the sauce:
Grate a tomato and mix it with the garlic paste. This sauce will add a fresh taste and a tangy note, perfect for balancing the rich flavor of the breaded zucchinis. If desired, you can also add a few drops of lemon juice for extra freshness.

Serving:

Arrange the fried zucchinis on a platter and generously drizzle them with the garlic sauce. Garnish with finely chopped fresh parsley for a vibrant appearance. These breaded zucchinis are served warm, alongside a green salad or a side of rice, making them an excellent choice for both lunch and dinner.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use smaller zucchinis?
Yes, smaller zucchinis are just as delicious. They will have a more delicate texture and a sweeter taste.

2. What other herbs can I add to the egg mixture?
You can experiment with oregano, basil, or even thyme to add an extra note of flavor.

3. Can I bake the breaded zucchinis?
Yes, for a healthier version, place the zucchinis on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, drizzle them with a bit of oil, and bake at 200 degrees Celsius for 25-30 minutes, flipping them halfway through.

4. Can I freeze the breaded zucchinis?
It is better not to freeze fried zucchinis, as their texture may change. However, you can prepare them in advance and keep them in the fridge, consuming them within the next few days.

Nutritional benefits:

Zucchinis are an excellent source of vitamins (especially vitamin C) and minerals, being very low in calories. They contribute to healthy digestion and are full of antioxidants. Cheese adds a good source of calcium, while garlic has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.

Practical tips:

- Choose firm zucchinis, free from spots or signs of damage.
- Adjust the spices according to personal preferences – you can add chili for a spicy taste or herbs for a fresh note.
- For a vegetarian version, you can replace the cheese with a plant-based alternative.

Variations:

- Breaded zucchinis with a splash of lemon: Add grated lemon zest to the breadcrumb mixture for a citrusy flavor.
- Breaded zucchinis with yogurt sauce: Replace the garlic sauce with a Greek yogurt sauce mixed with fresh mint and crushed garlic.
- Breaded zucchinis with quinoa: Add cooked quinoa to the breadcrumb mixture for an interesting texture and an extra protein boost.

Now that you have all the necessary information, all that's left is to start cooking! Breaded zucchinis with garlic sauce are an excellent choice for any occasion and will surely bring a smile to the faces of your loved ones. Bon appétit!