Title: Easy Baking: Delicious Parmesan Zucchini Sticks with Marinara Sauce
Are you searching for a simple, healthy, and delicious snack that your family and friends will love? Look no further because these baked Parmesan zucchini sticks with marinara sauce are the perfect answer! Not only are they bursting with flavor, but they also offer a wonderful way to include more vegetables in your diet without compromising on taste. Plus, their crispy outside and tender inside make them an irresistible treat. Let’s dive into how you can make these delightful snacks right in your own kitchen.
Ingredients:
To start, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 4 medium zucchinis
- 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup of breadcrumbs (either store-bought or homemade)
- 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 large eggs
- Your favorite marinara sauce for dipping
Instructions:
Preparing the Zucchini:
- Preheat your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit (220 degrees Celsius). This high temperature is key for achieving that golden-brown crispiness.
- Wash and cut the zucchinis: First, make sure your zucchinis are clean. Then, slice each zucchini into sticks that are about half an inch thick. It’s important to cut them uniformly so they bake evenly.
- Salt the zucchini sticks: This step is optional but recommended. Lightly salting the zucchini sticks and letting them sit for about 10 minutes can help draw out excess moisture, making them crispier once baked. After 10 minutes, pat them dry with a paper towel.
Breading the Zucchini:
- Set up your breading station: You’ll need three shallow dishes. In the first dish, beat the two eggs. In the second, mix together the breadcrumbs, Parmesan, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Leave the third dish empty for now; it’s just a place to put your breaded zucchini sticks.
- Dredge the zucchini sticks: Dip each zucchini stick first into the beaten eggs, letting any excess drip off. Then, roll it in the breadcrumb mixture until it’s fully coated. Place the coated zucchini stick on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper for easier cleanup.
Baking:
- Arrange the zucchini sticks: Make sure the coated zucchini sticks are placed on the baking sheet in a single layer, not touching each other. This ensures they bake evenly and get that desired crispy texture.
- Bake the zucchini sticks: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the zucchini sticks are golden brown and crispy. Halfway through the baking time, it’s a good idea to flip each stick to ensure even browning.
Serving:
- Cool off: Let the zucchini sticks cool for a few minutes before serving. This wait time can be challenging, especially when they smell so tempting, but it helps them crisp up even more.
- Prepare the marinara sauce: While the zucchini sticks are cooling, warm up your favorite marinara sauce in a small pot over low heat or in a microwave-safe bowl in the microwave.
- Serve: Place the warm marinara sauce in a serving dish. Arrange the baked Parmesan zucchini sticks around the sauce, and then dive in!
Final Thought:
These baked Parmesan zucchini sticks with marinara sauce are not only a crowd-pleaser but also a healthier alternative to traditional fried snacks. They’re perfect for game days, family gatherings, or just when you’re in the mood for something deliciously crispy and savory. The best part? They are incredibly easy to make. By incorporating simple ingredients and following these straightforward steps, you’ll have a delectable treat that everyone is sure to enjoy. So, get your zucchinis ready, and let’s bake up a storm of flavors that will light up your taste buds!