This fried zucchini is zucchini sticks coated in seasoned breadcrumbs and parmesan cheese, then deep fried to golden brown perfection. Zucchini fries are the perfect side dish or party snack to feed a crowd!
There’s just something about fried food that makes it so delicious! When I’m looking to indulge a bit, I whip up a batch of fried ravioli, cream cheese wontons or this amazing fried zucchini.
I’ve been ordering fried zucchini in restaurants for as long as I can remember. That crispy coated squash is just addictive, especially when served with a side of marinara sauce! This homemade version of the restaurant classic is surprisingly easy to make at home, and it’s always a hit.
How do you make fried zucchini?
The first step is to cut some zucchini squash into sticks. The zucchini sticks are coated in egg, then rolled in a mixture of seasoned breadcrumbs and parmesan cheese. The final step is to cook your zucchini in hot oil until crispy and golden brown. Serve your zucchini fries with a sprinkling of parsley and some sauce for dipping!
Tips for fried zucchini
- I liked to cut my zucchini in sticks because I find it easier to eat that way, but you can cut your zucchini into round coins if you prefer.
- I use a mixture of Italian breadcrumbs and panko breadcrumbs for the best coating. If you don’t have Italian style breadcrumbs on hand, you can use regular breadcrumbs and add 1 teaspoon of dried Italian seasoning.
- These zucchini sticks cook quickly, so watch them carefully in the oil!
- Fried zucchini is best served fresh from the fryer. I wouldn’t recommend trying to make this dish in advance.
- Use a deep frying thermometer to make sure your oil is at the proper temperature. Your oil should be between 350-375 degrees F.
Do you peel zucchini to fry it?
I personally don’t peel my zucchini before I fry it. The peel helps to hold the zucchini together so that it’s not overly mushy inside the coating. In addition, many of the nutrients are in the peel, so keep it on!
Is zucchini healthy?
Zucchini is packed with nutrients such as folate, Vitamin B6, potassium, manganese, Vitamin C and and Vitamin K. Zucchini is low calorie, low in carbohydrates and high in fiber. Zucchini also protects against inflammation, aids in digestion, improves thyroid function and is beneficial for your eyes.
Can you bake fried zucchini?
If you prefer to avoid deep frying, you can bake your zucchini in the oven. Bread your zucchini sticks according to the directions, then coat the zucchini with cooking spray and place them on a greased sheet pan. Bake at 425 degrees F for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Once you try this fried zucchini, you’ll find yourself making it all the time! It’s the perfect game day snack, great for parties or just for a night at home when you’re in the mood for some Italian food.
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Fried Zucchini
Ingredients
- 4 zucchini quartered and cut into 3 inch pieces
- 3/4 cup Italian breadcrumbs
- 3/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 3/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
- 2 eggs beaten
- oil for frying
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley
- 1 cup marinara sauce
Instructions
- Place the Italian breadcrumbs, panko breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, salt and pepper in a shallow bowl. Stir to combine.
- Place the eggs in a second bowl.
- Dip the zucchini sticks in the egg, then roll in the breadcrumb mixture until completely coated.
- Heat 2 inches of oil in a deep pan to 350 degrees F.
- Fry 6-8 pieces of zucchini at a time for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown. Repeat with remaining zucchini.
- Place the cooked zucchini on paper towels to drain.
- Sprinkle with parsley, then serve immediately with marinara sauce on the side.
Amanda says
Has anyone tried this in the air fryer?
Sue says
I used oil spray and baked them and they were awesome!
Susie says
When do you incorporate the Parmesan? I don’t see it in the instruction. Can’t wait to try these, love zoo sticks!
Sara says
I’m sorry that was an error, I fixed the recipe! Thanks for catching it!
Margaret says
In step 1: Place the Italian breadcrumbs, panko, parmesan cheese, salt and pepper in a shallow bowl. Stir to combine.
Kevin Hemenway says
Making these tonigh (baked verison). We have an overabundance of zucchini – good problem to have. I like using tzatziki sauce for the dipping. Mediterranean twist and we also have an abundance of cucumbers this year. Zucchini fritters and zucchini boats (taco, lasagna and more) are also great uses of this wonderful vegetable.
Debbie says
I love this healthier version of zucchini! Less mess than frying
Cris Silva says
One of my favourites vegetables are the zucchinis. This is an amazing idea. I will try it. thanks.
Peggy Hill says
Another thing I do with zuchinni is chop it and add to my spaghetti. I cook an onion or two and a sweet pepper if I have one, Brown my hamburger, add garlic, and what ever spices you want, I love adding lemon pepper and salt of course, add Ragu traditional, then add my chopped zuchinni and let simmer in the sauce for a few minutes and it’s ready to go. It works great for kids that won’t eat their veggies.
Peggy Hill says
Zuchinni is great sliced round coin style, topped with pepperoni And parmigian cheese and marinara and put under the broiler until it turns brown. Easy and excellent!
Sara says
Love this idea thanks for sharing!
Ana says
I really liked your recommendation of baking Zucchini as I’m trying to avoid deep fried recipes these days. I’d love to give this recipe a shot. Thanks for sharing it with us!
Deanna says
I LOVE fried zucchini, but never think to make it at home. Wow, your recipe looks wonderful!
Kalyan Panja says
That an yummilicious recipe . Looks nice and easy to prepare during the weekend.
Lisa says
I could eat this for breakfast lunch and dinner! I love zucchini, and when fried, it’s even tastier!
Nancy Polanco says
Oh wow, these look so good! I haven’t ever had zucchini this way! I’ll have to give this a try, thanks for sharing!
Sam says
I love fried zucchini! I just had zucchini coins with melted cheese a couple nights ago. While they were good, I wished they were fried. I’m going to have to make these soon!
Va Anne Rome says
Wow, so delicious and easy recipe to make for the kids. I am sure my kids will love it like and will make their favorite.
Alexandra Cook says
My kids would absolutely love these. This would disappear in no time at our house! This is my kind of weekend treat.
Erin says
Yes yes yes! I love fried zucchini. I still remember the exact booth at the exact restaurant I was sitting in when I ate it for the first time. And that was years ago! This recipe looks so easy, I’m definitely going to try it!
Beth Pierce says
My kids would love this for an afternoon snack after school! This would even make a great side dish with their dinner, or appetizer at a party!
Heather says
We are huge zucchini fans. I’ve never fried it though. I’m going to try it soon!
Stacie says
I love this twist on an old favorite. My family loves fried zucchini, and this looks like a great way to make that just a little bit healthier.