Zucchini Flats Recipe – Crispy & Cheesy Zucchini Strips
Enjoy these irresistible zucchini flats that are crispy, cheesy, and full of flavor. Perfect for summer brunch, a side dish, or an appetizer, these zucchini strips are simple to make and quick to prepare. Using larger zucchini is key for the best texture, ensuring each piece is packed with a delectable cheesy coating. This recipe is an ideal way to highlight the flavors of summer vegetables, while adding a satisfying, savory twist.
Ingredients & Nutritional Information
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Parmesan cheese (grated) | 3/4 cup |
| Eggs | 2 large |
| All-purpose flour | 2 tbsp |
| Fresh parsley (chopped) | 2 tbsp |
| Salt | 3/4 tsp |
| Black pepper (freshly ground) | 1/4 tsp |
| Garlic cloves (minced) | 2 cloves |
| Milk | 1/4 cup |
| Zucchini (cut into strips) | 2 large |
| Vegetable oil | As needed |
| Additional flour (for dusting) | As needed |
| Additional Parmesan (for garnish) | As desired |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 170.2 kcal |
| Fat | 8.8 g |
| Saturated Fat | 4.4 g |
| Cholesterol | 124.4 mg |
| Sodium | 782.1 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 10.7 g |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Sugar | 3.2 g |
| Protein | 13.3 g |
Servings
The recipe yield varies depending on the size of your zucchini, but it’s typically enough for 4-6 servings as an appetizer or side dish.
Instructions
-
Prepare the Cheese Mixture:
In a shallow bowl, whisk together 3/4 cup of Parmesan cheese, 2 eggs, 2 tablespoons of flour, 2 tablespoons of parsley, 3/4 teaspoon of salt, 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper, 2 minced garlic cloves, and 1/4 cup of milk. Make sure the mixture is smooth and well combined. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator to chill for at least 15 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together and helps the coating stick better to the zucchini later on. -
Prepare the Zucchini:
While the cheese mixture is chilling, take the zucchini and cut each in half crosswise. Then, slice each half lengthwise into strips about 1/4-inch thick. For the best results, aim for uniform thickness so that each slice cooks evenly. Lightly dust each zucchini strip with additional flour. This step helps the cheese mixture adhere well to the zucchini slices during frying. -
Heat the Oil:
In a large frying pan, heat about 1/4 cup of vegetable oil over medium heat. You want the oil hot enough to fry but not too hot that the zucchini burns before cooking through. You may need to adjust the heat slightly as you go to maintain the perfect frying temperature. -
Coat and Fry the Zucchini:
Using a fork, dip each zucchini slice into the prepared cheese mixture, making sure to coat both sides thickly. Shake off any excess mixture and carefully place the slices into the heated oil. Fry a few pieces at a time, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Cook the zucchini, turning once, until each side is a deep golden brown, which should take about 3-4 minutes per side. Be gentle when turning them to avoid the coating breaking apart. -
Drain and Keep Warm:
Once the zucchini slices are crispy and golden on both sides, remove them from the pan and drain briefly on paper towels to remove excess oil. Transfer them to a serving plate and keep them warm while you fry the remaining batches. Add more oil to the pan as needed for each batch to ensure the zucchini fries evenly. -
Garnish and Serve:
Once all the zucchini slices are fried and crispy, sprinkle them with additional Parmesan cheese to taste. You can add a bit more fresh parsley if desired for a pop of color and extra flavor. Serve the zucchini flats warm, either as an appetizer or alongside your favorite main dishes.
Pro Tips:
- Larger Zucchini: Aim for zucchini that are at least 7 inches long. Smaller zucchini may result in pieces that are too thin, making it difficult to get a crispy texture.
- Uniform Thickness: Consistent thickness ensures even cooking. A mandoline slicer can help achieve this if you have one on hand.
- Cheese Substitutions: If you want to switch things up, try using Romano cheese instead of Parmesan for a slightly sharper flavor.
- Reheating: These zucchini flats are best eaten fresh, but if you have leftovers, reheat them in a 350°F oven for about 5-7 minutes to bring back the crispiness.
Perfect Pairings:
- Dipping Sauce: Serve with a tangy marinara or a cool, creamy ranch dip for an extra layer of flavor.
- Main Course: Pair these zucchini flats with grilled chicken, pasta, or even a hearty vegetable salad for a well-rounded meal.
- Beverage: A refreshing glass of iced tea or lemonade pairs perfectly with this light, summery dish.
This recipe is perfect for a light summer snack, an appetizer for brunch, or even as a flavorful side for a cozy dinner. The crispy texture and cheesy flavor will keep everyone coming back for more!
