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Crispy Fried Zucchini with Parmesan Recipe

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4.4 from 85 reviews

This Fried Zucchini recipe offers crispy, golden-brown zucchini slices coated in a seasoned flour and breadcrumb mixture, perfect as a snack or side dish. It provides two cooking methods: traditional deep frying and a healthier air fryer alternative, both delivering deliciously crispy results with a cheesy finish.

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings

Ingredients

Zucchini

  • 3–4 medium zucchini (about 8–10 inches long)

Flour Mixture

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Egg Wash

  • 2 eggs
  • 2 cups milk

Breading

  • 3 cups panko breadcrumbs or cornflake crumbs
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder (optional)
  • ½ teaspoon Italian breadcrumbs (optional)

Frying

  • 1 cup vegetable oil (canola, or olive oil for frying)

Finishing

  • Finely shredded Parmesan cheese
  • Pinch of salt

Instructions

  1. Prepare the zucchini: Wash and pat dry 3–4 medium zucchini using paper towels to remove excess moisture. Slice into 1/3-inch thick rounds or sticks for even cooking.
  2. Mix the flour: In a shallow bowl, combine 2 cups all-purpose flour with salt and black pepper to taste, creating the seasoned flour mixture.
  3. Make the egg wash: Beat 2 eggs and mix with 2 cups milk in a second bowl to form a smooth egg wash for coating.
  4. Prepare the breadcrumbs: Place 3 cups panko breadcrumbs or cornflake crumbs in a third bowl. Stir in optional ½ teaspoon onion powder or Italian breadcrumbs for extra flavor, if desired.
  5. Heat the oil: For traditional frying, fill a deep fryer or frying pan with 1 cup vegetable oil and heat it to medium-high. Test by dropping a breadcrumb in; it should sizzle immediately.
  6. Bread the zucchini: Working in small batches, coat each zucchini piece first in the seasoned flour mixture, then dip into the egg wash, and finally press into the breadcrumb mixture until fully coated.
  7. Fry the zucchini: Carefully lower the breaded zucchini pieces into the hot oil using tongs or a slotted spoon. Fry 2–4 minutes until crispy and golden brown.
  8. Drain and season: Remove fried zucchini and place on paper towels or a wire rack to drain excess oil. While still hot, sprinkle with finely shredded Parmesan cheese and a pinch of salt.
  9. Serve immediately: Enjoy the fried zucchini fresh with ranch dressing, marinara sauce, or a squeeze of lemon for extra zest.
  10. For air fryer method, prepare zucchini and coatings as above.
  11. Preheat air fryer: Set air fryer to 400°F. Lightly spray the basket with olive oil or line with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
  12. Arrange and air fry: Place breaded zucchini in a single layer, leaving space between pieces. Air fry 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway through. Lightly spray tops with olive oil mid-cycle for crispiness.
  13. Drain and season air-fried zucchini: Transfer to a wire rack or paper towel-lined plate. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and salt while hot.

Notes

  • Use fresh zucchini for the best texture and flavor.
  • Ensure zucchini is dried thoroughly before breading to keep coating crispy.
  • Add onion powder or Italian breadcrumbs for more aromatic flavor.
  • Use a thermometer to maintain oil temperature around 350°F during frying for optimal crispiness and to avoid sogginess.
  • Air frying is a healthier alternative requiring less oil while producing similar crispy results.
  • Serve immediately for best taste and texture.
  • Author: ELLA
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Find it online: https://ellarecipe.com/crispy-fried-zucchini-with-parmesan-recipe/