Zucchini sticks with ranch dressing

Zucchini sticks with Ranch dressing - A delicious and healthy snack

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Introduction

Who doesn’t love a crunchy and healthy snack? Zucchini sticks with Ranch dressing are a perfect choice for a relaxing afternoon, a party with friends, or even as a side dish for dinner. These delicious zucchini sticks are not only simple but also full of flavor, and the combination with Ranch dressing makes them irresistible. Plus, zucchini is a versatile and healthy ingredient, rich in vitamins and minerals, and low in calories. Let’s get started!

Ingredients needed

For the zucchini sticks:
- 2 medium zucchinis
- 2 eggs
- 100 g grated parmesan (or to taste)
- 100 g breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon dried basil or oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Ranch dressing:
- 200 g sour cream
- 1 clove garlic, crushed
- 1-2 tablespoons mayonnaise (or to taste)
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried dill
- Salt and pepper, to taste

Recipe history

Zucchini sticks are a modern reinvention of traditional appetizers, deeply rooted in healthy cuisine. This dish has gained popularity among those who want to combine taste with health, being an excellent alternative to fried snacks. Zucchini, with its light texture and delicate flavor, transforms into a crunchy and delicious snack, perfect for any occasion.

Preparing the zucchini sticks

1. Preparing the zucchinis: Start by washing the zucchinis under cold running water. Cut them lengthwise into thin strips, about one centimeter thick. This will help achieve a crispy texture in the end.

2. Dehydrating the zucchinis: Place the zucchini strips in a sieve or colander and sprinkle salt over them. Let them drain for about 1 hour. This step is essential to remove excess water from the zucchinis, so that when we bake them, they become crispy and do not become soggy.

3. Preparing the breadcrumb mixture: In a bowl, combine the grated parmesan, breadcrumbs, basil or oregano, salt, and pepper. This mixture will provide a delicious crust for your sticks.

4. Preparing the eggs: In another bowl, beat the eggs well. They will act as an adhesive to help the breadcrumb mixture stick to the zucchinis.

5. Dipping the zucchinis in eggs: After the zucchinis have been dehydrated, take each strip and dip it in the beaten eggs, making sure it is evenly coated.

6. Coating the zucchinis in breadcrumbs: Then, pass the zucchini strips through the breadcrumb and parmesan mixture. Make sure they are well coated to achieve a crispy crust.

7. Baking: Place the zucchini sticks on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Bake them in the preheated oven at 200°C for 12-15 minutes or until golden and crispy. You can turn them halfway through for even baking.

Preparing the Ranch dressing

1. Mixing the ingredients: In a small bowl, combine the sour cream, crushed garlic, mayonnaise, parsley, onion powder, dill, salt, and pepper. Mix well until you achieve a smooth composition.

2. Adjusting the taste: Taste the dressing and adjust the seasonings to your preference. If you want a creamier dressing, add a little more mayonnaise.

Serving

Zucchini sticks are served warm, alongside the Ranch dressing. You can also add a few slices of lemon for an extra freshness. This dish is perfect for enjoying at a party or as a healthy snack between meals. It can also be paired with a glass of cold lemonade or a fruit smoothie for an unforgettable culinary experience.

Variations and suggestions

If you want to add a personal touch to the recipe, you can try the following variations:

- Spices: Experiment with different herbs and spices, such as smoked paprika or chili, for a spicy flavor.
- Cheese: Replace the parmesan with feta or mozzarella for a different taste.
- Colorful zucchinis: Use zucchinis of different colors (e.g., yellow zucchinis) for an attractive visual appearance.

Nutritional information and calories

This recipe for zucchini sticks with Ranch dressing contains approximately 150 calories per serving (without dressing). Zucchini is an excellent source of vitamins A and C, dietary fiber, and antioxidants, contributing to a healthy diet. The Ranch dressing adds a delicious taste, but it’s best to consume it in moderation, considering the fat content from the mayonnaise.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use frozen zucchinis?
It is not recommended, as the texture may change. Fresh zucchinis are best for this recipe.

2. How do I store zucchini sticks?
It is recommended to consume them immediately, but if there are leftovers, you can keep them in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 1-2 days. Reheat them in the oven to restore their crispiness.

3. What can I use instead of eggs?
For a vegan version, you can use a mixture of chickpea flour with water or a plant-based egg substitute.

These zucchini sticks are not only a delicious choice but also an excellent way to add vegetables to your diet. Try this simple and quick recipe, and I’m sure you will fall in love with them! Enjoy every bite and savor a healthy and flavorful snack!