Crave-worthy Crispy Parmesan Zucchini Sticks: Your New Favorite Snack!
When it comes to finger foods, it’s hard to beat something that’s crispy, cheesy, and kind of healthy all at the same time, right? That’s where crispy parmesan zucchini sticks come into the picture. These little sticks of joy are not just delicious and easy to make, but they also offer a sneaky way to incorporate veggies into your diet. Perfect for parties, movie nights, or just a fun cooking project, let’s dive into how you can prepare these crispy delights at home with minimal fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- Zucchinis: Start with 3 medium-sized ones. They are the star of this show.
- Eggs: 2 eggs will act as the glue holding our crispy coating on.
- Parmesan Cheese: You’ll need about 1 cup of grated parmesan for that cheesy goodness.
- Breadcrumbs: 1 cup of these will add the crunch we crave.
- Garlic Powder: Just a teaspoon for a hint of garlicky flavor.
- Salt and Pepper: To taste, of course!
Equipment Checklist:
- 3 shallow bowls (for your dipping stations)
- 1 baking sheet
- Parchment paper (so nothing sticks)
- A cooling rack (optional, for extra crispiness)
Let’s Get Cooking!
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Preparation is Key: Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C) – we’re talking nice and hot. Line your baking sheet with parchment paper. If you have a cooling rack that fits inside your baking sheet, set that on top of the parchment paper. It will help air circulate around the zucchini sticks, making them extra crispy.
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Slice ‘n’ Dice: Wash your zucchinis and pat them dry. Then, cut them into sticks that are about half an inch thick and 3 inches long. Think about the size of a finger. Size matters here because we want them all to cook evenly.
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Egg Wash: Crack those eggs into one of the shallow bowls and give them a good whisk. This will help the dry ingredients stick to the zucchinis.
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Mix the Dry Stuff: In another bowl, mix together the grated parmesan, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. This mixture is what’s going to give us that irresistible crispy coating.
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Assembly Line Time: You’ve got your zucchini sticks, your egg wash, and your parmesan-breadcrumb mix. Now, let’s set up a little assembly line. Dip each zucchini stick in the egg wash, let the excess drip off, then roll it in the breadcrumb mixture. Make sure it’s nicely coated. Then, place it on the baking sheet (or cooling rack, if you’re using one).
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Bake to Perfection: Once all your sticks are prepped and placed, pop them into the oven. Bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy. The delicious smell will be a good indicator that they’re nearly done.
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Cool Down: Let them cool for a few minutes before serving. They’re best enjoyed warm but watch out, they’ll be hot!
Dipping Sauces: The Perfect Sidekicks
While these zucchini sticks are fantastic on their own, dipping sauces can elevate the experience. Marinara sauce is a classic choice, but don’t shy away from experimenting with ranch dressing, aioli, or even a spiced up yogurt sauce. Dipping is part of the fun, after all!
Why You’ll Love These Crispy Parmesan Zucchini Sticks
- They’re a healthier alternative to traditional fried snacks.
- A great way to sneak in some veggies.
- They’re crispy, cheesy, and absolutely addictive.
- Perfect for practically any occasion or no occasion at all!
In Closing
There you have it, a simple recipe for crispy parmesan zucchini sticks that are guaranteed to impress. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, these are straightforward to make and a joy to eat. Cooking can be a fun adventure, especially when the results are this delicious. So, give this recipe a try and enjoy the crunch!