Crispy Zucchini

Crispy Baked Zucchini – A Dietary Delight

Looking for a simple and quick recipe that adds a touch of flavor to your diet? Crispy baked zucchini is the perfect choice! With a golden, crunchy crust, they are not only tasty but also healthy, making them ideal for snacks, appetizers, or even as a side dish. Let’s embark on this delicious recipe together!

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

Ingredients
- 2 medium zucchinis (about 400 g)
- 1 large egg
- 100 g breadcrumbs (preferably whole grain for a healthier option)
- 50 g finely grated parmesan (or another type of hard cheese, to taste)
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- Olive oil (optional, for extra flavor)

Step by Step
1. Preparing the Zucchini
Start by washing the zucchinis thoroughly under cold running water, ensuring you remove any impurities. After washing, dry them with a clean towel. Then, cut the zucchinis into sticks about 1 cm thick. This step is essential for even baking!

2. Seasoning
Place the zucchini sticks in a large bowl and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste. Mix well so that all pieces are evenly coated. This step helps draw out moisture and intensifies the flavors.

3. Preparing the Coating
In another bowl, beat the egg with a fork until smooth. In a separate bowl, combine the breadcrumbs with the grated parmesan. This combination will give the zucchini a crispy, salty crust, perfect!

4. Dipping in Egg and Breadcrumbs
Take each zucchini stick, dip it in the beaten egg, and then roll it well in the breadcrumb and parmesan mixture. Ensure each piece is well coated; this will make the crust golden and crunchy in the oven.

5. Baking
Preheat the oven to 200°C (fan-assisted). Line a baking tray with parchment paper (or lightly grease it with olive oil if desired) and arrange the crispy zucchini in a single layer, without overlapping. Bake the zucchini for 20 minutes, or until golden and crunchy.

6. Serving
Once the zucchini are ready, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. This step is important, as the crust will harden as they cool. Serve them with a garlic tomato sauce or a garlic sour cream dip, which will perfectly complement their crispy taste.

Practical Tips
- Choosing Zucchini: Opt for younger zucchinis with smooth, tender skin. They will cook faster and have a pleasant texture.
- Breadcrumbs: If you want a gluten-free option, use rice breadcrumbs or ground nuts. These will provide a different but delicious texture.
- Variations: Experiment with spices! You can add garlic powder, paprika, or herbs like oregano or basil to the breadcrumb mixture to enhance the flavors.
- Storing: Crispy zucchini are best served immediately, but if you have leftovers, you can store them in the fridge for 1-2 days. Reheat them in the oven to restore their crunchiness!

Nutritional Benefits
Zucchini is an excellent source of vitamins (A, C) and minerals (potassium, magnesium), with low calorie content. This recipe is a healthy alternative to processed snacks, providing a serving of vegetables in a delicious and satisfying way.

Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use frozen zucchini?
It is not recommended, as their texture will change after thawing. Use fresh zucchini for the best results.

- Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely! This recipe can be expanded to include carrots, eggplant, or even potatoes, cut into sticks.

- What can they be paired with?
Crispy zucchini are wonderful alongside a fresh salad, a yogurt dip, or as a side for grilled meats. They also pair excellently with a glass of dry white wine or a refreshing lemonade.

Crispy baked zucchini are more than just a simple dietary recipe. This delicacy will turn your meals into a true feast of flavors! Feel free to share this recipe with friends and enjoy the moments spent together around the table. Enjoy your meal!