Crispy zucchini with sesame in the oven

Crispy zucchini with sesame in the oven - a delicious and easy-to-make recipe, perfect for a healthy snack or a savory appetizer. These zucchini slices are coated with a crunchy layer of breadcrumbs and sesame, and the combination with mayonnaise and ketchup sauce turns them into a true culinary delight.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 55 minutes
Servings: 4

A short story about zucchini

Zucchini are versatile vegetables, originally from America, but today they are grown and appreciated worldwide. They are rich in nutrients, being an excellent source of vitamins and minerals. Zucchini are also very low in calories and have a high water content, making them perfect for diets. The crispy zucchini with sesame recipe is an ingenious way to highlight their texture and flavor, and to add a touch of creativity to your kitchen.

Ingredients

- 2 medium zucchinis
- 1 bag of "Idea of the Day" breadcrumbs (usually used for chicken, but great for vegetables too)
- 2 large eggs
- 100g grated cheese (you can also use feta or parmesan for a stronger taste)
- 1 bunch of fresh dill (or 1 teaspoon of dried dill)
- 2-3 cloves of garlic (to taste)
- 2-3 tablespoons of sesame (you can add more if you like)
- Salt and pepper, to taste

Step-by-step instructions

1. Preparing the zucchinis:
Start by washing the zucchinis well. You can peel them or leave the skin on, depending on your preference. Cut them into slices about 0.5 cm thick. This will help achieve a crispy texture.

2. Dehydrating the zucchinis:
Place the zucchini slices in a sieve and sprinkle them with salt. Let them sit for 15-20 minutes. The salt will help draw out excess water from the zucchinis, contributing to a crispier texture after baking.

3. Preparing the egg mixture:
In a bowl, beat the two eggs with a pinch of salt and pepper. Add the chopped dill and crushed garlic. Mix well to combine the flavors. Then, incorporate the grated cheese. You can experiment with other cheeses for a more complex flavor.

4. Preparing the crunchy mixture:
In a deep plate, mix the breadcrumbs with the sesame. This will be the crunchy layer that will coat the zucchinis and give them a delicious texture.

5. Dipping the zucchinis:
Remove the zucchinis from the sieve and gently pat them dry with a kitchen towel to remove excess water. Dip each zucchini slice into the egg mixture, then roll them in the breadcrumb and sesame mixture, making sure they are well coated.

6. Baking the zucchinis:
Preheat the oven to 180°C (low heat). Line a baking tray with parchment paper and arrange the zucchini slices in a single layer. Bake the zucchinis for 35-40 minutes until they become golden and crispy. You can turn the slices halfway through for even baking.

Serving

Once the zucchinis are ready, take them out of the oven and let them cool slightly. Serving can be personalized: you can offer a mayonnaise with ketchup sauce or even a yogurt dip with mint. They pair perfectly with a fresh salad or even as a side dish with a steak.

Practical tips

- Vegan option: You can replace the eggs with a mixture of chickpea flour and water, which will create a sticky paste to coat the zucchinis.
- Adding spices: In the breadcrumb mixture, you can add spices such as paprika, cumin, or herbs de Provence for an extra flavor boost.
- Caring for the zucchinis: Before frying, make sure the zucchinis are well dried to avoid steaming.

Nutritional benefits

Zucchini are rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as essential minerals like potassium and manganese. Eating zucchini can support digestive health due to their fiber content and is an excellent choice for those looking to maintain or lose weight, having only 17 calories per 100g.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use frozen zucchini?
It is not recommended, as frozen zucchini lose their crispy texture. Use fresh zucchinis for the best results.

2. How can I keep the crispy zucchinis?
I recommend consuming them immediately after baking to enjoy the crispy texture. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for a day.

3. What other vegetables can I use?
You can experiment with eggplants, carrots, or even potatoes. The preparation method remains the same.

Conclusion

Crispy zucchini with sesame in the oven is a simple and tasty recipe, ideal for any occasion. It not only satisfies your craving for something crispy but also provides important nutritional benefits. Try this recipe and let yourself be carried away by its flavor! Whether you prepare it for a family meal or a party with friends, I am sure it will quickly become a favorite recipe. Enjoy!