Zucchine in Carpione (Marinated Fried Zucchini)
Category: Appetizers
Serves: 4
Zucchine in Carpione is a delicious Italian appetizer that combines the crispy goodness of fried zucchini with a tangy, flavorful marinade. This dish, typically served as an antipasto, offers a perfect balance of textures and flavors, making it an excellent choice for any meal or gathering. The zucchini is first fried to golden perfection, then marinated in a mixture of white wine, vinegar, garlic, and sage, which enhances the natural sweetness of the zucchini while giving it a refreshing twist.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Zucchini | 400g |
| Fine salt | 20g |
| White wine vinegar | 75g |
| White wine | 200g |
| Garlic | 3 cloves |
| Fresh sage leaves | 6 leaves |
| Extra virgin olive oil | 15g |
| Peanut oil (for frying) | 500g |
Nutritional Information
Per serving (approximate values)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 250 kcal |
| Protein | 2g |
| Carbohydrates | 20g |
| Fats (Total) | 20g |
| Saturated Fat | 3g |
| Fiber | 4g |
| Sodium | 600mg |
| Sugar | 5g |
Instructions
1. Prepare the Zucchini
- Begin by washing the zucchini thoroughly and trimming both ends. Cut each zucchini in half lengthwise, then slice each half into four long strips, resulting in 3 uniform sticks from each portion.
- Place the zucchini sticks in a colander over a bowl to collect any excess moisture. Sprinkle the zucchini generously with fine salt to draw out the water.
- Let the zucchini rest for about 30 minutes so the salt can work its magic.
2. Prepare the Marinade
- While the zucchini is draining, prepare the marinade. In a small pan, heat the extra virgin olive oil over medium heat. Once warm, add the garlic and finely chopped sage leaves.
- Sauté the garlic and sage for just a few minutes until fragrant and lightly toasted.
- Next, deglaze the pan with a splash of white wine from the total amount and the white wine vinegar. Allow it to cook for a minute to reduce slightly. Remove from heat and set aside to cool.
3. Fry the Zucchini
- After the zucchini has rested and drained, rinse it well under cold running water to remove excess salt. Let it drain again in the colander for about 10 minutes to remove any remaining moisture.
- In a deep pan with high sides, heat the peanut oil over medium-high heat. Using a kitchen thermometer, ensure the oil reaches a temperature of around 170-180°C (340-350°F).
- Once the oil is hot, fry the zucchini in small batches. Be sure not to overcrowd the pan to ensure an even fry. Cook each batch for 3-4 minutes, or until golden and crispy.
- Once fried, transfer the zucchini to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
4. Marinate the Zucchini
- Arrange the fried zucchini in a shallow dish. Pour the prepared marinade over the zucchini, ensuring each piece is well-coated.
- Cover the dish with plastic wrap and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight. The longer the zucchini marinates, the more flavorful it will become as it absorbs the aromatic oil and vinegar mixture.
Serving Suggestions
Zucchine in carpione is best served chilled or at room temperature as a refreshing appetizer. Pair it with a crisp white wine or a light, sparkling beverage for a truly Italian experience. It also makes an excellent addition to any antipasti platter, alongside olives, cured meats, and cheeses.
Tips & Variations
- Add a twist of flavor: You can experiment with different herbs such as rosemary or thyme instead of sage for a unique variation.
- For a vegan version: Ensure that the dish is made with only olive oil for frying and marinating, as some peanut oils may be refined with animal-derived ingredients.
- Serving size: This recipe can easily be scaled up for larger gatherings or parties. Simply adjust the amount of zucchini and marinade accordingly.
This Zucchine in Carpione recipe will bring a taste of Italy to your table, featuring the perfect balance of savory, tangy, and fresh flavors. It’s a delightful dish that showcases the versatility of zucchini while adding depth through its marinating process. Whether enjoyed as a light starter or part of a larger meal, it’s sure to impress.
