Zucchini with breaded cheese

Breaded Zucchini with Cheese - A Crunchy and Savory Indulgence

Looking for a simple and delicious recipe to bring a touch of joy to your culinary life? Breaded zucchini with cheese is exactly what you need! This recipe is not only a great way to enjoy vegetables but also an opportunity to create a crunchy, flavorful dish perfect for any occasion. Whether you serve them as an appetizer, side dish, or simple snack, the breaded zucchini will surely become a family favorite. Before we start cooking, let's get familiar with the ingredients and the necessary steps to achieve a perfect result.

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

Ingredients:
- 1 large, fresh zucchini
- 2 eggs
- 2-3 tablespoons of sparkling water
- 50 g all-purpose flour (for a crunchier crust, use corn flour)
- 50 g grated sheep cheese (you can also use feta or parmesan)
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper
- Sweet paprika, for extra flavor
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley leaves, finely chopped
- Oil for frying (sunflower or olive oil)

Ingredient tips:
Choose young and firm zucchinis, as they have a tender texture and a pleasant taste. If you want to add a touch of flavor, you can experiment with different types of cheese. Goat cheese, for example, will provide an intense taste and a distinct aroma. Additionally, sweet paprika can be replaced with smoked paprika for a deeper flavor.

Step by Step:

1. Preparing the zucchini:
Start by peeling the zucchini. Use a sharp knife to remove the skin, but if you prefer, you can leave it on as it contains many nutrients. Cut the zucchini into slices about 2-3 mm thick, making sure they are uniform for even cooking. If you want a softer texture, cut the slices thicker.

2. Preparing the batter:
In a large bowl, beat the eggs with sparkling water and a pinch of salt. The sparkling water will help achieve a lighter crust. Gradually add the flour, mixing well to avoid lumps. Finally, incorporate the grated cheese and chopped parsley, mixing until you obtain a homogeneous batter.

3. Seasoning the zucchini:
In another bowl, season the zucchini slices with salt, black pepper, and sweet paprika. This step is essential for adding flavor to the zucchini, so don’t skip it!

4. Frying the zucchini:
In a deep skillet, heat the oil over medium-high heat. Test the oil temperature by dropping a bit of batter – if it sizzles, the oil is ready. Take each zucchini slice, dip it in the egg batter, making sure it is well coated, then carefully place it into the hot oil. Fry them on each side for 2-3 minutes or until golden and crispy.

5. Draining excess oil:
After frying, remove the zucchini with a spatula and place them on a paper towel to absorb excess oil. This step will help keep the dish crispy.

6. Serving:
The breaded zucchini is delicious both warm and cold. You can serve them alongside a fresh seasonal salad with tomatoes, cucumbers, and red onion, drizzled with olive oil and balsamic vinegar for a perfect contrast of flavors.

The story behind the recipe:
This breaded zucchini recipe has deep roots in culinary traditions, being an ingenious way to transform fresh vegetables into attractive dishes. With a crunchy crust and soft filling, breaded zucchini is often served at parties, festive meals, or simply as a delicious snack with family. It’s a recipe that not only satisfies the craving for flavors but also encourages vegetable consumption.

Calories and nutritional benefits:
This breaded zucchini with cheese recipe contains approximately 180-200 calories per serving, depending on the amount of oil used for frying. Zucchini is an excellent source of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, with a low caloric content, making it ideal for a balanced diet. Sheep cheese adds protein, calcium, and a rich flavor, while parsley provides an extra dose of nutrients.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use frozen zucchini?
- While it’s better to use fresh zucchini to achieve a crunchy texture, frozen zucchini can be used. Make sure to thaw and squeeze them well before frying.

2. How can I make the breaded zucchini healthier?
- If you want a healthier version, you can bake the zucchini instead of frying them. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, drizzle with olive oil, and bake at 180°C for 20-25 minutes, turning them halfway.

3. What can I serve with breaded zucchini?
- Breaded zucchini pairs wonderfully with sauces like tzatziki or garlic yogurt sauce. Additionally, a crudités salad or fresh tomato sauce can add an extra burst of flavor.

Possible variations:
To add diversity to the recipe, try replacing sheep cheese with goat cheese or mozzarella. You can also add spices like garlic powder, cumin, or herbs to the egg mixture to enhance the flavor.

Serving suggestion:
For an attractive presentation, arrange the breaded zucchini on a platter and garnish with fresh parsley leaves. Offer a slice of lemon on the side to add a touch of freshness.

I hope this breaded zucchini with cheese recipe has inspired you to explore the kitchen creatively and enjoy a delicious dish. Cooking is an art, and every meal is an opportunity to bring joy and love into the lives of those around you!