Fried Zucchini with Spicy Dipping Sauce

We don't eat too much in the way of fried food, but I must admit that I do love fried zucchini. Guess I justify eating it because, after all, zucchini is a vegetable!

This recipe makes a great hors d'oeuvre as just about anyone can enjoy it, including vegetarians. I have made it gluten-free by whirling Udi's gluten-free bread in a food processor and using a gluten-free flour mix with good results.

Serve it with the dipping sauce below or use your favorite ranch or blue cheese dressing.

Fried Zucchini with Spicy Dipping Sauce
(Serves 6.)

• Oil for frying
• 3 large zucchini, cut into 1/2-inch rounds
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 cups panko bread crumbs
• 1/4 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh parsley leaves
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• Salt & freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 3 eggs, lightly beaten
• 1/4 cup water
• Spicy dipping sauce, recipe follows

Preheat oil in a deep-fryer to 350°F.

Fried Zucchini with Spicy Dipping Sauce

Measure flour into a pie plate. In another pie plate combine panko, Parmesan, parsley, red pepper flakes and salt and pepper, to taste. In a third plate add eggs and water. Dredge the zucchini in the flour, followed by the egg and finally in the panko.

Working in batches, place the breaded zucchini slices in the hot oil and fry until golden brown, 3 to 4 minutes. Drain on a paper towel lined sheet tray and immediately season with salt and pepper. Serve alongside the zucchini.






Spicy Dipping Sauce
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1/4 cup spicy barbecue sauce or salsa
• 1 medium shallot, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon chopped chives
• Salt & freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Place all the ingredients into a serving bowl and mix until incorporated. Cover with plastic wrap and let flavors marinate for at least 1 hour.