This recipe features crispy Parmesan-coated zucchini sticks, seasoned with aromatic Provencal herbs and paprika, fried to golden perfection. The homemade dill sauce adds a tangy and refreshing touch, making this dish an excellent appetizer, side dish, or snack. The combination of crunchy texture and cheesy flavor makes these zucchini sticks absolutely irresistible.
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 4
Ingredients
For the Zucchini Sticks:
- 2 zucchinis
- 5 eggs
- 100g Parmesan cheese, grated
- 70g flour
- 100g breadcrumbs
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp Provencal herbs
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
For the Dill Sauce:
- 1 egg
- 1 salty (pickled) cucumber, finely chopped
- 3 tbsp Greek yogurt
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Fresh dill, chopped
Directions
-
Prepare the Zucchini:
Wash the zucchinis and cut them into sticks (about the size of thick fries). Sprinkle with a little salt and let them sit for 5 minutes to remove excess moisture. Pat dry with a paper towel. -
Prepare the Breading Station:
- In one bowl, beat the eggs.
- In another bowl, mix the flour with salt, black pepper, paprika, and Provencal herbs.
- In a third bowl, combine the breadcrumbs with grated Parmesan cheese.
-
Bread the Zucchini Sticks:
- Dredge each zucchini stick in the flour mixture.
- Dip it into the beaten eggs, ensuring it is fully coated.
- Roll it in the breadcrumb-Parmesan mixture, pressing lightly so the coating sticks well.
-
Fry the Zucchini:
- Heat vegetable oil in a frying pan over medium heat.
- Fry the zucchini sticks in batches for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
- Transfer to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil.
-
Prepare the Dill Sauce:
- Hard-boil the egg, then finely chop it.
- In a bowl, mix Greek yogurt, chopped pickled cucumber, minced garlic, and fresh dill.
- Stir in the chopped egg and mix until well combined.
-
Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the crispy Parmesan zucchini sticks hot with the creamy dill sauce for dipping.
Nutritional Facts (per serving, approx.)
- Calories: 280
- Protein: 12g
- Fat: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Calcium: 150mg
The Origins and Popularity of This Recipe
Zucchini, widely used in Mediterranean and European cuisines, is often fried, baked, or grilled. This crispy Parmesan-coated zucchini variation draws inspiration from Italian and French cooking, where Parmesan and herbs are commonly used for flavor enhancement. Fried zucchini is a popular dish in many cultures, from American-style zucchini fries to Greek-style fried courgettes served with tzatziki. This recipe takes the best of both worlds—crispy texture from frying and rich cheesy flavor from Parmesan. Its growing popularity comes from its simplicity and versatility, making it a perfect appetizer or snack for any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is perfect for anyone who loves crispy, cheesy snacks with a flavorful crunch. The zucchini maintains its tender bite, while the Parmesan-breadcrumb coating creates a golden crust. The aromatic herbs and spices enhance the taste, making each bite irresistible. Paired with the tangy and refreshing dill sauce, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s great for parties, family dinners, or a quick treat.
Health Benefits of Parmesan Zucchini Sticks
- Zucchini: Low in calories and rich in vitamins A and C, zucchini supports immune health and digestion.
- Parmesan Cheese: A great source of calcium and protein, supporting bone health.
- Eggs: Packed with protein and essential nutrients that promote muscle growth and overall well-being.
- Greek Yogurt: Contains probiotics that aid digestion and boost gut health.
- Garlic and Dill: Both ingredients are known for their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve as a side dish with grilled chicken or fish.
- Pair with a light salad for a refreshing contrast.
- Serve as a snack with additional dipping sauces like marinara, tzatziki, or ranch.
- Use as a vegetarian party appetizer with other finger foods.
Tips
- For a healthier version, bake the zucchini sticks at 200°C (400°F) for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Make sure to pat dry the zucchini before breading to help the coating stick better.
- If you prefer a spicier kick, add chili powder or cayenne pepper to the flour mixture.
- Instead of frying, try using an air fryer for a crispier yet healthier alternative.
Variations to Try
- Spicy Version: Add red pepper flakes or cayenne to the breadcrumb mixture.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use almond flour and gluten-free breadcrumbs.
- Cheese Variations: Swap Parmesan with pecorino, cheddar, or gouda for a different flavor.
- Extra Crunch: Add crushed nuts like almonds or pistachios to the breadcrumb coating.
Conclusion
These crispy Parmesan zucchini sticks with dill sauce are an easy and flavorful snack, perfect for any occasion. The balance of crispy texture, cheesy goodness, and refreshing yogurt dip makes them a must-try dish. Whether you’re hosting guests or simply craving a delicious and healthy snack, these zucchini sticks will not disappoint!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I bake these instead of frying?
Yes! Bake at 200°C (400°F) for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway for even crispiness.
2. Can I store leftovers?
These are best enjoyed fresh, but you can store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer for crispiness.
3. Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, you can use pecorino, cheddar, or gouda instead of Parmesan for a different flavor.
4. Can I make these ahead of time?
You can bread the zucchini sticks and store them in the fridge for a few hours before frying.
5. What can I serve as an alternative dipping sauce?
Try marinara sauce, garlic aioli, tzatziki, or honey mustard for a different twist.