A delicious and easy-to-make appetizer, Crispy Fried Zucchini features golden, crunchy zucchini slices paired with creamy parmesan dipping sauce or tangy marinara. Perfect for parties, game days, or as a side dish, this recipe combines fresh zucchini, seasoned breadcrumbs, and a quick frying method to deliver irresistible flavor and texture. Great for zucchini lovers and those looking for a crowd-pleasing snack!

Ingredients
For the Creamy Parmesan Dipping Sauce
- ¼ cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup sour cream
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- ¼ cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 pinch salt
- Ground black pepper, to taste
For the Fried Zucchini
- 2 medium zucchini, sliced into ½-inch-thick discs
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon salt
- Ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 ½ cups breadcrumbs (see Notes)
- ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- Olive oil (or another neutral oil, for frying)
Optional
- Marinara sauce, for serving
Instructions
For the Creamy Parmesan Dipping Sauce
- In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, sour cream, minced garlic, grated parmesan, salt, and black pepper.
- Stir thoroughly until smooth and well combined.
- Refrigerate the sauce until ready to serve.
For the Fried Zucchini
- Prepare three separate bowls for dredging:
- Bowl 1: Add all-purpose flour.
- Bowl 2: Beat together eggs, salt, and black pepper to taste.
- Bowl 3: Combine breadcrumbs, grated parmesan, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and additional salt and pepper.
- Heat a ½-inch layer of oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Dredge each zucchini slice:
- First, coat both sides in the flour, shaking off any excess.
- Next, dip into the egg mixture, ensuring full coverage. Let any excess egg drip back into the bowl.
- Finally, coat thoroughly in the breadcrumb mixture.
- Once the oil is hot, carefully add zucchini slices to the skillet in a single layer without overlapping. Fry in batches to avoid overcrowding.
- Cook zucchini for 2 to 3 minutes on one side, then flip and cook another 2 to 3 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
- Remove the fried zucchini and place on a plate lined with paper towels or a cooling rack set over paper towels to drain excess oil. Repeat with remaining zucchini slices.
- If desired, sprinkle the fried zucchini with additional salt immediately after frying. Serve warm with creamy parmesan dipping sauce and/or marinara.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Crispy and Flavorful: The perfect balance of crunchy coating and tender zucchini.
- Versatile Dipping Options: Pair with a tangy parmesan sauce or marinara for variety.
- Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this a great appetizer or side dish.
- Customizable: Adjust the seasonings or breadcrumbs to suit your taste.
Tips
- Choose Fresh Zucchini: Look for firm, medium-sized zucchini for the best texture and flavor.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Fry in small batches to maintain the oil’s temperature and ensure even cooking.
- Test the Oil Temperature: A small piece of bread should sizzle and turn golden in about 30 seconds.
- Keep Zucchini Crispy: Place fried slices on a cooling rack instead of stacking them to prevent sogginess.
Variations and Substitutions
- Breadcrumbs: Use panko for extra crunch or gluten-free breadcrumbs for a gluten-free option.
- Cheese: Substitute parmesan with pecorino romano for a sharper flavor.
- Seasoning: Add paprika or cayenne pepper for a hint of spice.
- Baking Option: Bake the zucchini at 425°F for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, for a healthier alternative.
FAQs
Can I make this ahead of time?
Fried zucchini is best served fresh, but you can prep the slices and refrigerate them for up to 4 hours before frying.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover zucchini in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in an oven or air fryer to restore crispiness.
What other sauces can I use?
Try ranch dressing, garlic aioli, or even a spicy sriracha mayo.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve as an appetizer with dipping sauces for a crowd-pleasing start to any meal.
- Pair with grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal.
- Add to a vegetable platter with fresh carrots, celery, and bell peppers for variety.
Crispy Fried Zucchini with Dipping Sauces
8
servings15
minutes15
minutesIngredients
For the Creamy Parmesan Dipping Sauce
¼ cup mayonnaise
¼ cup sour cream
1 clove garlic, minced
¼ cup grated parmesan cheese
1 pinch salt
Ground black pepper, to taste
For the Fried Zucchini
2 medium zucchini, sliced into ½-inch-thick discs
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon salt
Ground black pepper, to taste
1 ½ cups breadcrumbs (see Notes)
½ cup grated parmesan cheese
2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
1 teaspoon garlic powder
½ cup all-purpose flour
Olive oil (or another neutral oil, for frying)
Optional
Marinara sauce, for serving
Directions
- For the Creamy Parmesan Dipping Sauce
- In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, sour cream, minced garlic, grated parmesan, salt, and black pepper.
- Stir thoroughly until smooth and well combined.
- Refrigerate the sauce until ready to serve.
- For the Fried Zucchini
- Prepare three separate bowls for dredging:
- Bowl 1: Add all-purpose flour.
- Bowl 2: Beat together eggs, salt, and black pepper to taste.
- Bowl 3: Combine breadcrumbs, grated parmesan, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and additional salt and pepper.
- Heat a ½-inch layer of oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Dredge each zucchini slice:
- First, coat both sides in the flour, shaking off any excess.
- Next, dip into the egg mixture, ensuring full coverage. Let any excess egg drip back into the bowl.
- Finally, coat thoroughly in the breadcrumb mixture.
- Once the oil is hot, carefully add zucchini slices to the skillet in a single layer without overlapping. Fry in batches to avoid overcrowding.
- Cook zucchini for 2 to 3 minutes on one side, then flip and cook another 2 to 3 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
- Remove the fried zucchini and place on a plate lined with paper towels or a cooling rack set over paper towels to drain excess oil. Repeat with remaining zucchini slices.
- If desired, sprinkle the fried zucchini with additional salt immediately after frying. Serve warm with creamy parmesan dipping sauce and/or marinara.
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