If you’re looking for a healthy, delicious, and easy-to-make snack or side dish, look no further than these Golden Crispy Zucchini Spears. This recipe transforms humble zucchini into a crispy, flavorful treat that even the pickiest eaters will love. Perfect for an appetizer or a side dish, these zucchini spears are baked to perfection, ensuring a crunchy exterior while keeping the inside tender and juicy. Plus, they are packed with nutrients and low in calories, making them a guilt-free indulgence.
Ingredients
• 2 medium zucchini, cut into spears
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 eggs, beaten
• Cooking spray or olive oil spray
Directions
1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly coat it with cooking spray. This will ensure that the zucchini spears do not stick to the sheet and achieve a perfect crisp.
2. Prepare the Coating: In a shallow dish, mix together the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. This mixture will give the zucchini its delicious, crispy coating.
3. Coat the Zucchini: Dip each zucchini spear into the beaten eggs, making sure it is fully coated. Then, dredge the zucchini in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure the coating adheres well to each piece.
4. Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place the coated zucchini spears on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer. Ensure they are not touching each other to allow even cooking and maximum crispiness.
5. Add a Final Spray: Lightly spray the zucchini spears with cooking spray or olive oil spray. This helps them to crisp up nicely in the oven.
6. Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. Turn the zucchini spears once halfway through the baking time to ensure even cooking. They should be golden and crispy when done.
7. Serve: Remove the zucchini spears from the oven and serve them hot. They make a delicious appetizer or side dish that pairs well with a variety of dips.
Preparation and Cooking Times
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Calories: 180 kcal per serving
• Servings: 4
Tips for Perfect Crispy Zucchini Spears
• Uniform Size: Cut the zucchini spears to a uniform size to ensure they cook evenly.
• Dry Zucchini: Pat the zucchini dry with a paper towel before dipping in the egg to help the coating stick better.
• Crispier Coating: For an extra crispy coating, you can double-dip the zucchini. After the first coating of breadcrumbs, dip the zucchini back into the egg and then into the breadcrumb mixture again.
• Serve Immediately: Serve the zucchini spears immediately after baking to enjoy their maximum crispiness.
Benefits of Zucchini
Zucchini is a versatile and nutritious vegetable packed with health benefits:
• Low in Calories: Zucchini is low in calories, making it a great addition to any weight-loss diet.
• Rich in Nutrients: It is a good source of vitamins A and C, potassium, and fiber.
• Antioxidant Properties: Zucchini contains antioxidants like lutein and zeaxanthin, which are beneficial for eye health.
• Hydration: With a high water content, zucchini helps keep you hydrated.
FAQs
Can I use a different cheese instead of Parmesan?
Yes, you can substitute Parmesan with other hard cheeses like Pecorino Romano or even a dairy-free alternative if you’re vegan.
Can I make these zucchini spears in an air fryer?
Absolutely! Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and cook the zucchini spears for about 15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover zucchini spears in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven or air fryer to regain their crispiness.
Can I freeze the zucchini spears?
It’s not recommended to freeze the cooked zucchini spears as they may become soggy upon reheating. However, you can prepare them ahead, coat them, and freeze before baking. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Conclusion
Golden Crispy Zucchini Spears are a delightful, healthy alternative to traditional fried snacks. They are easy to prepare, packed with flavor, and nutritious. Whether served as an appetizer or a side dish, these zucchini spears are sure to be a hit at any table. Enjoy the crunch and savor the health benefits with each bite!