Make genuinely crispy zucchini rings in the oven using a Parmesan coating. This recipe includes steps to remove excess moisture for a non-soggy result.
Author:Ahazzam
Prep Time:40 min
Cook Time:20 min
Total Time:60 min
Yield:4 servings
Category:Appetizer
Method:Baking
Cuisine:American
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
3 medium zucchini
1 cup all-purpose flour
2 large eggs, lightly beaten
1 cup Panko breadcrumbs
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, finely grated
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, coarsely grated
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon salt (plus extra for drawing out moisture)
Cooking spray or olive oil spray
Instructions
Prepare the zucchini: Slice the zucchini into 1/4-inch thick rounds. Cut the rounds into rings by removing the center core if desired, or leave them as thick slices.
Draw out moisture: Place the zucchini pieces on a wire rack set over a baking sheet. Sprinkle generously with salt. Let them sit for 30 minutes to draw out water. Pat them completely dry using paper towels. This step prevents sogginess.
Set up the dredging stations: Prepare three shallow dishes. Place flour in the first dish. Whisk the eggs in the second dish. In the third dish, combine the Panko breadcrumbs, 1/2 cup finely grated Parmesan, garlic powder, oregano, pepper, and 1/4 teaspoon salt.
Coat the zucchini: Dredge each dry zucchini piece first in the flour, shaking off excess. Dip it into the egg mixture, allowing excess to drip off. Finally, press it firmly into the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring it is fully coated.
Add final cheese layer: Lightly spray both sides of the coated zucchini rings with cooking spray or olive oil spray. Sprinkle the remaining 1/4 cup of coarsely grated Parmesan over the tops of the rings.
Bake: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Arrange the coated rings in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Do not overcrowd the pan.
Bake for 10 minutes. Flip the rings carefully. Spray the second side lightly with oil spray. Bake for another 8 to 12 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
Serve immediately with your preferred dipping sauce.
Notes
For extra crispiness, place the coated zucchini on a wire rack set over a baking sheet before baking. This allows air to circulate underneath.
If you use an air fryer, cook at 400°F (200°C) for 8 to 10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
Garlic Aioli is a good dipping sauce: Mix 1/2 cup mayonnaise, 1 clove minced garlic, 1 teaspoon lemon juice, and a pinch of salt.