Breaded zucchini with garlic sauce

Delicious Breaded Zucchini Recipe with Garlic Sauce

If you’re looking for a simple yet incredibly tasty recipe, breaded zucchini with garlic sauce is the perfect choice. This classic combination of crispy vegetables and a flavorful dip is a true feast for the senses. Plus, it’s a recipe that revives cherished childhood memories and adds a touch of comfort to any meal. Let’s discover together how to transform a few simple zucchinis into an unforgettable dish!

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients

For the breaded zucchini:
- 2 medium zucchinis
- 2 large eggs
- 125 g flour (add more if necessary)
- 2 tablespoons cold water
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Oil for frying

For the garlic sauce:
- 1 head of garlic (preferably Romanian garlic for a stronger flavor)
- 50 ml sunflower oil or olive oil
- 25 ml sparkling water or still water
- Salt, to taste

Preparation

1. Prepare the zucchinis:
Start by washing the zucchinis thoroughly under cold running water. Once you’ve cleaned them, dry them with a clean towel. I prefer not to peel them, as the skin adds a nice texture and extra nutrients, but you can peel them if you prefer.

2. Slice the zucchinis:
Cut the zucchinis into rounds about 1 cm thick. Make sure they are uniform so they cook evenly.

3. Prepare the egg mixture:
In a bowl, beat the eggs with 2 tablespoons of cold water, adding salt and pepper to taste. The mixture should be smooth and slightly frothy.

4. Prepare the flour:
In a deep plate, place the flour and add a small amount of salt and pepper. Mix well to distribute the spices evenly.

5. Heat the oil:
In a deep skillet, pour in the oil and let it heat over medium heat. Check if it’s hot enough for frying using the “water droplet” method – if a drop sizzles, it’s ready!

6. Bread the zucchinis:
Take each zucchini round, dip it first in the egg mixture, then in the flour, ensuring each piece is well coated. Carefully place the rounds in the skillet, taking care not to overcrowd it. Fry each side for 2-3 minutes, or until they turn golden and crispy.

7. Remove the fried zucchinis:
Once they are nicely browned, transfer the zucchinis to a platter lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil.

Preparing the garlic sauce

1. Crush the garlic:
Peel the garlic cloves and place them in a mortar or blender cup. Add a pinch of salt to help crush the garlic and enhance its flavor.

2. Grind the garlic:
Grind the garlic until it becomes a fine paste. Gradually add the oil while continuing to mix as if making mayonnaise, to achieve a smooth emulsion. This trick will make the garlic sauce creamier and more flavorful.

3. Add the water:
Finally, add the sparkling or still water gradually, stirring continuously until you reach the desired consistency. Taste and adjust the salt if necessary.

Serving

Serve the breaded zucchinis warm, alongside the garlic sauce and a generous portion of polenta. This combination brings a perfect balance between crunchy and creamy, and the garlic aroma will make each bite a true delicacy.

Useful Tips

- Variations: You can add spices to the flour, such as paprika or dried herbs (oregano, basil) for extra flavor. You can also try adding grated cheese to the egg mixture for a richer taste.
- Keeping the crunchiness: Make sure the oil is at the correct temperature before adding the zucchinis; otherwise, they will absorb too much oil and won't become crispy.
- Share other recipes: These breaded zucchinis pair perfectly with a fresh salad or a serving of French fries. You can also try your luck with a tartar sauce or yogurt with dill recipe for a refreshing touch.

Nutritional Benefits

Zucchinis are an excellent source of vitamins and minerals, being rich in vitamin C, potassium, and antioxidants. This recipe is not only delicious but also healthy, with a moderate calorie content thanks to the vegetables and cooking method. A serving of breaded zucchinis with garlic sauce provides approximately 250-300 kcal, making them an ideal choice for a light meal.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I use frozen zucchinis?: Fresh zucchinis are preferred, but you can also use frozen ones. Make sure to let them thaw completely and drain well before frying.
- What other vegetables can be used?: The same recipe can be applied to eggplants or carrots, which will also taste delicious.
- How can I store leftovers?: Breaded zucchinis can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. You can reheat them in the oven or skillet to bring them back to life.

Now that you have all the necessary information, all that’s left is to get cooking! Breaded zucchinis with garlic sauce are a fantastic choice for any meal, and with a little patience and creativity, you’ll impress all your loved ones with this simple and delicious recipe. Enjoy your meal!