🥒 Crispy Zucchini Sticks
Golden, crunchy on the outside, tender on the inside — a healthy and delicious snack or side dish.
🛒 Ingredients (Serves 2–4)
- 2 medium zucchini, cut into sticks (~3–4 inches long)
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko works great for extra crispiness)
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- Salt & pepper, to taste
- 2–3 tbsp oil for frying or cooking spray for baking
- Optional dipping sauces: marinara, ranch, or aioli
🥣 Instructions
1️⃣ Prep Zucchini
- Wash and cut zucchini into sticks.
- Pat dry to remove excess moisture (helps them crisp better).
2️⃣ Set Up Breading Station
- Bowl 1: flour
- Bowl 2: beaten eggs
- Bowl 3: breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan, garlic powder, salt, and pepper
3️⃣ Coat Zucchini
- Dredge each stick in flour, then egg, then breadcrumb mixture.
- Press breadcrumbs gently to adhere.
4️⃣ Cook Zucchini
Oven-Baked:
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Place zucchini sticks on a greased baking sheet or parchment paper.
- Lightly spray with cooking oil.
- Bake 15–20 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crispy.
Pan-Fried:
- Heat 2–3 tbsp oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Fry zucchini sticks 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown.
- Drain on paper towels.
5️⃣ Serve
- Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.
🔥 Tips & Variations
- Extra Crispy: Use panko breadcrumbs and lightly brush with oil.
- Spicy Kick: Add paprika, cayenne, or chili flakes to the breadcrumb mixture.
- Cheesy Flavor: Mix shredded Parmesan or Pecorino into the breadcrumbs.
- Air Fryer Option: Cook at 400°F (200°C) for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway.
If you want, I can also give you:
- Mozzarella-style zucchini sticks with gooey cheese inside
- Buffalo-style spicy zucchini sticks
- Low-carb version with almond flour
- Mini appetizer platter with zucchini, carrots, and dip
Do you want them crispy and golden or soft and tender inside?