This recipe for crispy zucchini sticks is a delightful and healthier alternative to fried snacks. Made without any oil or fat, these zucchini sticks are baked until golden and crispy. They are perfect for a light appetizer or a tasty snack, especially when paired with a flavorful sour cream and garlic dip. Here’s how to make them:
Ingredients:
For the Zucchini Sticks:
- 2 zucchini (about 700g total), cut into sticks
- 2/3 tsp salt
- 1-2 eggs, beaten
- 4 tbsp breadcrumbs
- 1 tsp ground garlic
- A pinch of ground black pepper
- 1 tsp ground paprika
- 0.5 tsp oregano
- 2 tbsp flour
For the Sauce:
- 4 tbsp sour cream
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- A couple of twigs of dill, finely chopped
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven and Prepare Zucchini:
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Cut the zucchini into sticks approximately 3 inches long and 1/2 inch thick.
- Season and Coat:
- Sprinkle the zucchini sticks with salt and let them sit for about 10 minutes. This helps to draw out moisture.
- Pat the zucchini dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
- Dredge the zucchini sticks in flour, shaking off any excess.
- Dip each floured stick into the beaten egg, then coat with a mixture of breadcrumbs, ground garlic, black pepper, paprika, and oregano.
- Arrange and Bake:
- Arrange the coated zucchini sticks in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the zucchini sticks are golden and crispy.
- Prepare the Sauce:
- While the zucchini sticks are baking, prepare the dipping sauce. In a small bowl, combine the sour cream, minced garlic, and chopped dill. Mix well until all ingredients are incorporated.
- Serve:
- Remove the zucchini sticks from the oven and let them cool slightly on a wire rack.
- Serve the crispy zucchini sticks warm with the sour cream and garlic sauce for dipping.
Tips:
- For Extra Crispiness: For an even crunchier texture, you can place the coated zucchini sticks in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes before baking. This helps the coating set and become crispier when baked.
- Alternative Seasonings: Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices in the breadcrumb mixture to suit your taste preferences. Adding Parmesan cheese to the breadcrumb mix can also enhance the flavor and crispiness.
Conclusion:
These crispy baked zucchini sticks are a fantastic, guilt-free way to enjoy a delicious snack without the extra calories from frying. The sour cream and garlic sauce complements the zucchini perfectly, making this dish a hit for parties, gatherings, or just a healthy snack at home. Enjoy the savory crunch of these oven-baked delights!