Crispy Fried Zucchini with Cool Cucumber Dip
Fried Zucchini with Cucumber Dip is a deliciously crispy and refreshing dish that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ or looking for a new appetizer to share with friends and family, this recipe is sure to impress.
The combination of golden brown breaded zucchini sticks with zippy dill dip makes for a perfect match that will leave your taste buds craving more. As a scribe for a home chef who loves throwing parties, I can vouch that this recipe will be an instant hit among your guests.
What’s even better is that this recipe can be easily customized to suit your dietary preferences. You can substitute the sour cream and mayonnaise in the dip recipe for greek yogurt or opt for a healthier version by baking the breaded zucchini sticks instead of deep-frying them.
So, whether you’re a fan of traditional fried zucchini or are looking for a healthier twist on this classic dish, this recipe has got you covered. Get ready to indulge in some deliciously crispy fried zucchini with a side of cool and refreshing cucumber dip.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Are you tired of the same old appetizers at every party? Look no further than this fried zucchini with cucumber dip recipe. This dish is a crowd-pleaser that will leave your guests reaching for seconds.
One reason you’ll love this recipe is the crispy texture of the breaded zucchini. With a perfect combination of panko breadcrumbs and flour, each bite is guaranteed to be golden brown, crunchy, and delicious. Not to mention, it’s a healthier alternative to other deep-fried options.
But what makes this recipe truly unique is the pairing with a refreshing cucumber dip. Its refreshing flavor comes from ingredients such as dill weed and white distilled vinegar, making it zippy and fresh. The coolness of the cucumber also balances out the heat from the Tabasco sauce and garlic powder in the fried zucchini.
Not only is this dish flavorful and satisfying, but it’s also versatile in terms of serving options. You can present it as lightly battered spears or delicate rounds to provide various textures on your plate. And with its compatibility to different dips like tzatziki or ranch dressing, this dish can fit perfectly into any theme or cuisine.
So whether you’re hosting a dinner party or potluck party, fried zucchini with cucumber dip will be a perfect match for any occasion. This dish contains just enough zest to get your taste buds excited without overpowering your senses. Give it a try and see why it’s one of our favorite recipes.
Ingredient List
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious fried zucchini with cucumber dip dish:
For the Fried Zucchini:
- 2 medium zucchinis, sliced in rounds or sticks
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon white distilled vinegar
- 7 eggs, beaten
- 3 cups panko breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Vegetable oil, for frying
For the Cucumber Dip:
- 1 medium, peeled and seeded cucumber, finely chopped
- 1/4 of a medium, finely minced onion
- 3/4 tablespoon chopped fresh dill weed, plus extra for garnish
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 teaspoon granulated sugar
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- A few drops of Tabasco sauce
- A few drops of Worcestershire sauce
The Recipe How-To
Preparation is key
Before getting to the recipe how-to, make sure you have all the ingredients: 7 eggs, 2 cups of buttermilk, 3 cups of all-purpose flour, 1/4 cup of Worcestershire sauce, 2 teaspoons of white distilled vinegar, 1 tablespoon of sugar, 2 tablespoons of black pepper, 2 tablespoons of garlic powder, and 2 cups of Panko breadcrumbs. These are essential for a crispy and crunchy texture. You’ll also need 3 medium zucchinis (sliced), vegetable oil, and paper towels. Make sure that your ingredients are measured accurately to avoid any inconsistencies in taste.
Breading and frying
In a shallow dish, whisk together the eggs, buttermilk, Worcestershire sauce, white distilled vinegar, sugar, black pepper, and garlic powder. In another shallow dish combine the all-purpose flour and panko breadcrumbs.
To begin the breading process: dip each slice of zucchini into the batter first (make sure it’s fully coated), then add it to the flour mixture (again–fully coat). After that you will add to hot oil to fully cook. Cook in small batches so that your oil maintains its temperature.
Next,fry each slice about one minute on each side or until they turn a golden brown. When done correctly your slices should be crispy on the outside while maintaining their tenderness on the inside.
Remove excess oil
While fried zucchinis are delicious by themselves it’s always good to remove the excess oil after frying. This can be accomplished with a paper towel. Be gentle!
Make that dip!
Like every sauce or dip recipe what makes this recipe all-the-more exceptional is the dip: the cucumber dip! Perfect for dipping zucchini cucumber sticks or chips into it–it gives those zucchini good vibes!
Mix together 4 cups of sour cream, 1 cup of mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt if looking for something slightly healthier), finely chopped onion (it takes some time but finely chop one!), a minced garlic clove, 1/2 teaspoon sugar, 1/2 teaspoon salt, a pinch of black pepper, and some dill weed seasoning.
Finally add a dash or two or three of Worcestershire sauce, Tabasco sauce in addition to freshly squeezed lemon juice!
Substitutions and Variations
Looking for ways to switch up this fried zucchini and cucumber dip recipe? No problem, I’ve got you covered. Here are a few substitutions and variations to try out:
– Flour alternatives: If you’re gluten-free or just looking for a change, try swapping regular all-purpose flour for almond flour, chickpea flour, or even cornmeal.
– Dipping sauces: While the cucumber dip is a perfect match for these crispy fried zucchinis, there are other sauces you can use to add some variety to your dish. Try a zesty chipotle ranch dressing, a tangy tzatziki sauce, or even a creamy parmesan dip.
– Veggie swaps: Don’t have any zucchinis on hand? No problem! You can easily swap them out for other veggies like eggplant or yellow squash. You can also serve the crispy fried zucchini alongside other vegetable chips for a colorful and healthy snack.
– Baked breaded zucchini alternative: While deep-fried zucchini bites are delicious, they’re not the healthiest option out there. For a lighter version of this recipe, try baking the breaded zucchini sticks in the oven until golden brown.
No matter what substitutions or variations you choose to make, these black angus restaurant fried zucchini w/ cucumbers slices are sure to be a hit with your guests. Don’t be afraid to get creative and experiment with different flavors and textures!
Serving and Pairing
When you’re looking for a fun and flavorful appetizer to serve at your next party, this fried zucchini with cucumber dip recipe is the perfect match. The crispy fried zucchini sticks pair perfectly with the cool and zippy dill dip, creating a delicious flavor explosion in your mouth.
To serve this dish, I recommend placing the fried zucchini sticks on a large platter with a bowl of the cucumber dip in the center. Garnish with fresh cucumber slices and dill weed to add an extra pop of color and flavor.
This recipe can also be paired with a variety of other appetizers or entrees. If you’re serving it as an appetizer, try pairing it with some homemade tzatziki sauce or chipotle ranch dressing for dipping. For a heartier meal, serve it as a side dish alongside some grilled black angus steaks or chicken.
If you’re looking to make this dish healthier, you can bake the breaded zucchini sticks instead of deep frying them. You can also use greek yogurt instead of sour cream to make the dip lighter.
No matter how you choose to serve and pair this dish, your guests are sure to love these addictive little bites. So go ahead and whip up a batch of these delicious fried zucchini sticks today – they’re sure to be a hit!
Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating
You can make both the fried zucchini and the cucumber dip ahead of time, but it’s best to store them separately. To make the fried zucchini in advance, prepare it as you would normally and let it cool before placing it in an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply place the zucchini on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake at 375°F until heated through (about 10-15 minutes). If you’re short on time, you can also quickly reheat in a hot oven or toaster oven.
For the cucumber dip, store it in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. You may notice that the dip gets a bit watery as it sits, so give it a quick stir before serving. If you’re making the dip ahead of time, add fresh chopped dill weed just before serving to keep its flavor fresh.
If you have leftovers, store them separately as well. The fried zucchini tends to lose its crispiness when stored with the dip on top, so it’s best to keep them separate until ready to serve again.
Overall, this recipe is great for entertaining as both the fried zucchini and cucumber dip can be prepped ahead of time with minimal effort. Just make sure to store them separately so they stay fresh and crispy until your guests arrive!
Tips for Perfect Results
Fried zucchini with cucumber dip is a delicious snack, appetizer or side dish that can complement many meals. With a crispy exterior and soft interior, these breaded zucchini sticks are hard to resist. However, perfecting this recipe can be tricky, especially if you’re not used to frying foods. Fear not, as I have gathered some helpful tips to ensure your zucchini turns out golden brown and tasty every time.
Firstly, it’s important to invest in a thermometer for frying. When oil is too hot, the outside of the zucchini will burn while the inside remains uncooked. On the other hand, if the oil is not hot enough, the bread crumbs will absorb too much oil and become soggy instead of crispy. To avoid this problem, your oil should be heated to 375°F (190°C) before frying.
Another important factor in perfecting this recipe is to use the right amount of seasoning. While zucchini has a mild flavor on its own, adding too much salt or garlic powder can overpower its taste. Be conservative with your salt and seasonings and adjust them according to your taste preferences.
Properly draining the zucchini before breading it also plays an essential role in achieving crispiness. To do this, slice your zucchini into even pieces and lay them on paper towels or a clean kitchen cloth after sprinkling salt over them. The salt will release moisture from the zucchini making it dry enough for breading.
When adding bread crumbs to your mixture, ensure they are not too wet or too dry. Ideally they should stick together but still crumble when you pinch them between your fingers. Use panko bread crumbs instead of regular ones for a more crisp texture.
Lastly, serve your fried zucchini immediately after taking it out of the oil. Waiting too long can result in soggy sticks that will disappoint your guests. Pairing with a refreshing cucumber dip will add an extra layer of flavor and make your dish even more appetizing.
By following these tips and tricks, you’ll have perfect fried zucchinis every time!
FAQ
Now that you know how to make the perfect fried zucchini with cucumber dip, you may have some questions. Let’s address some of the most common ones in this FAQ section.
Why is my fried zucchini soggy?
Have you ever wondered why your zucchini ends up soggy? Surprisingly, zucchini tends to hold a lot of water even though it may not appear that way. To combat this, there is a simple trick – draw out the excess moisture! One of the simplest and quickest methods is to place the zucchini slices over a few paper towels.
Is fried zucchini a carb?
This particular recipe of fried zucchini is high in fat and calories, with a total carb count of 26.5g and a net carb count of 24.5g, along with 6g of protein.
What goes well with zucchini?
Pairing ingredients can elevate a dish from ordinary to extraordinary. One perfect match is the combination of eggplant and capsicum, creating a delightful flavor profile. Another great companion for eggplant is egg, which adds richness and depth to the dish. Seafood is also an excellent choice to partner with eggplant, bringing a taste of the ocean to the plate. Basil is another ingredient that works wonders with eggplant, bringing an aromatic and fresh twist to the dish. Bacon is another great match to eggplant, adding a smoky, meaty flavor to the already tasty vegetable.
In cooking, oil is an important ingredient that helps bring out the flavors of other ingredients. That is why it’s essential to choose the right oil for specific dishes. When it comes to egg and seafood dishes, choosing the appropriate oil can make them even more delicious. In addition to oil, another ingredient that can take a dish to the next level is anchovy. Its salty and briny flavors make it the perfect addition to salad dressings and sauces, adding a layer of depth and complexity to the dish.
A useful kitchen tip is to always keep your pantry stocked with essential ingredients, as they can save you time and money when cooking. Keeping staples such as canned tomatoes, chicken broth, and various oils on hand can ensure you’re always prepared to whip up a quick and delicious meal. Additionally, when cooking, it’s essential to taste the food frequently and adjust the seasoning as necessary to ensure a well-balanced and delicious dish.
Are fried zucchini good for you?
Although fried zucchini seems like a slightly healthier alternative to french fries, it is still cooked in unhealthy oils which adds saturated fat to your diet.
Bottom Line
In conclusion, this fried zucchini with cucumber dip recipe is an excellent choice for those who are looking to elevate their party food game. The combination of crispy fried zucchini and zippy dill dip is a perfect match that will make any gathering more exciting and satisfying.
This recipe is perfect for those who want to experiment with flavors and textures. With the options for substitutions and variations, you can create your own unique twist on this dish. Also, with the tips and recommendations provided, creating the perfect crispy fried zucchini with cucumber dip is made easier than ever before.
I highly recommend this recipe to anyone who enjoys delicious food that is easy to make, healthy, and perfect for parties or gatherings. It’s an excellent alternative to unhealthy snacks and provides a variety of flavors that will satisfy all taste buds.
So why not give this fried zucchini with cucumber dip recipe a try? It’s sure to be a hit at any party or gathering and will quickly become a favorite among your guests. Trust me; you won’t regret it!
Fried Zucchini With Cucumber Dip Recipe
Ingredients
Cucumber Dip
- 1 cucumber (unpeeled)
- 1/4 cup onion
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 3 shakes Tabasco sauce
- 2/3 cup mayonnaise
- 1/3 cup sour cream
- 1 1/2 teaspoons sugar
- 1 1/2 teaspoons white distilled vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt and a few twists black pepper
Fried Zucchini
- zucchini
- flour
- panko breadcrumbs (regular bread crumbs not recommended)
- 1 egg
- seasoned salt and dill weed
Instructions
- Using the small grate on your cheese box, grate one cucumber (unpeeled).Then grate 1/4 cup onion.
- Put both of the onion and cucumber in a sieve to let most of the water drain out. Transfer to a bowl.
- Add next 8 ingredients and mix it all together. Cover and put in the fridge to set about 8 hours. If you don't have 8 hours, it's okay. This dip can be made the night before.
- Slice some zucchini on the diagonal. Not only does this give you pretty cuts, it also gives you a little more per slice.
- In three separate bowls put some flour mixed with seasoned salt and dill weed. In the next, whisk one egg. In the last bowl, put some panko bread crumbs.
- Drop some zucchini slices in the flour. Coat boat sides well.Then drop into the egg bowl. Make sure egg gets on all sides.Then put the zucchini in the panko. Coat well.Repeat until all slices are breaded.
- Heat some oil over medium heat until it comes to about 360*. Carefully put the slices 4-5 at a time in the oil. After 3 or so minutes, turn the zucchini over.
- When both sides are golden brown, pull from the oil and set on paper towels to drain.
Your Own Notes
Nutrition
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Anna is a culinary expert who specializes in grilling delicious BBQ dishes. She also enjoys sharing her recipes and experiences with her foodie community on her blog. She’s the total package for any backyard barbecue!