Breaded zucchini with garlic sauce

Breaded Zucchini with Garlic Sauce - A Nostalgic Delicacy

When it comes to simple and delicious recipes, breaded zucchini with garlic sauce is a choice that not only delights the taste buds but also brings back cherished memories. This recipe is one of my husband's favorites, carrying a special story, as it was the first dish I ever cooked for him. And when a dish manages to win someone's heart, you know you've discovered a true culinary treasure!

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 10 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients:
- 4 young zucchinis, seedless
- 3 large eggs
- 150 g flour (plus extra for dredging)
- salt (to taste)
- pepper (to taste)
- 2-3 tablespoons of sparkling water
- oil for frying
- fresh parsley (for garnish)
- for the garlic sauce: 5-6 garlic cloves, 2 tablespoons of vinegar or lemon juice, salt (to taste)

Nutritional Details:
Zucchini is a low-calorie vegetable, containing about 17 calories per 100 g. They are an excellent source of vitamins A and C, as well as antioxidants. Frying them, although it adds a bit of oil, gives a crispy texture and a perfect taste.

Cooking Technique: Step by Step

1. Preparing the Zucchini:
Start by washing the zucchinis under cold running water. Peel them and cut them into slices about 1 cm thick. Place the zucchini slices in a bowl and sprinkle them with salt. This step is essential as the salt helps to draw out excess moisture, making them crispier after frying. Let them sit for 30 minutes.

2. Preparing the Batter:
In another bowl, beat the 3 eggs well with a pinch of salt and pepper. Gradually add the flour, mixing constantly to avoid lumps. Depending on the desired consistency, add sparkling water, keeping in mind that the batter should be similar to thick sour cream, enough to coat the zucchini slices.

3. Frying the Zucchini:
Heat the oil in a deep pan over medium heat. When the oil is hot enough, take each zucchini slice and dip it in the batter, ensuring it is evenly coated. Carefully place them in the pan, leaving enough space between them to fry evenly. Fry the zucchini for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden and crispy.

4. Draining the Oil:
Once fried, remove the zucchini slices onto a paper towel to absorb excess oil. This step is essential to keep the dish light and tasty.

5. Preparing the Garlic Sauce:
In a mortar or a small blender, crush the garlic cloves until they form a paste. Add salt and mix well. Incorporate the vinegar or lemon juice, which will add a fresh note and intense flavor. The garlic sauce is more than just a simple condiment; it is, in fact, the star of the dish, providing a delicious contrast to the breaded zucchini.

6. Serving:
Arrange the fried zucchini on a platter, sprinkling a bit of chopped fresh parsley on top for a pleasant appearance and added flavor. Serve them warm or cold, alongside the garlic sauce. They are perfect as an appetizer or a side dish for a main course.

Tips and Variations:
- Spice Variations: You can add spices like sweet or hot paprika to the batter to give the zucchini a more intense flavor.
- Zucchini with Cheese: Another idea would be to add grated cheese to the batter for a richer taste.
- Garlic Sauce with Herbs: Instead of the classic garlic sauce, you can prepare a yogurt sauce with garlic and fresh herbs, which will add a note of freshness.

Frequently Asked Questions:
1. Can I use larger zucchinis? - Although young zucchinis are best for this recipe, you can also use larger ones, but you will need to remove the seeds and cut them into thinner slices.
2. How can I make the breaded zucchini crispier? - Make sure the oil is well heated before adding the zucchini, and if you want extra crispiness, you can dredge the slices in breadcrumbs before frying.
3. What can I serve with breaded zucchini? - They pair wonderfully with a fresh salad or a serving of yogurt, but also with a glass of white wine or a cold beer.

This simple dish is not only a delicious meal but also a way to create beautiful memories with family. Whether you serve it as an appetizer or a main course, breaded zucchini with garlic sauce will bring smiles and joy to your tables. So, embrace the art of cooking and let yourself be carried away by the flavors of this classic dish!