Fried Zucchini with Tomato Sauce

Servings: 4 Total Time: 35 mins
Enjoy crispy fried zucchini served with a flavorful tomato sauce.
Fried Zucchini with Tomato Sauce pinit

Fried Zucchini with Tomato Sauce this simple yet flavorful recipe is perfect as an Dinner or Side Dish, or even a light Main Course. The crispy texture of the zucchini complements the tangy and savory notes of the sauce, creating a satisfying culinary experience. Whether you’re entertaining guests or enjoying a casual family meal, fried zucchini with tomato sauce is sure to impress.

Fried Zucchini with Tomato Sauce: Easy and Delicious Recipes

Looking for a delightful, easy-to-make dish that combines crispy textures with rich flavors? Fried Zucchini with Tomato Sauce is the perfect choice! This recipe offers a perfect balance of crunchy zucchini and savory tomato sauce, making it a versatile option for Dinner or Main Course or even a light main course. Let’s dive into what makes this dish so irresistible and how you can make it at home.

Ingredients Breakdown:

  • Zucchinis sliced into approximately 1 cm rounds: The main ingredient, zucchini, provides a mild flavor and tender texture.
  • Vegetable oil for frying: Ensures crispy, golden results.
  • Garlic cloves minced: Adds aromatic depth.
  • A small bunch of parsley, chopped: For freshness and color.
  • Cream: To add richness to the sauce.
  • Coriander: For a subtle, citrusy note.
  • Paprika: For color and mild spiciness.
  • Tomato paste: The base of the sauce, providing concentrated tomato flavor.
  • Salt: Enhances overall taste.
  • Cheese grated: Adds a savory, gooey topping.

Key Takeaways

  • Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.
  • Crispy and Flavorful: The fried zucchini provides a satisfying crunch, complemented by a rich, savory tomato sauce.
  • Versatile Dish: Ideal as an appetizer, side, or light main course, adaptable to various dietary preferences.
  • Customizable: Easily modified with different herbs, spices, or toppings to suit your taste.

Health Benefits

  • Low in Calories: Zucchini is naturally low-calorie, making this dish a healthy choice.
  • Rich in Nutrients: Provides vitamins C and A, antioxidants, and dietary fiber that support immune health and digestion.
  • Healthy Fats: Using moderate amounts of vegetable oil and baking options can help reduce fat content.
  • Herbs and Spices: Incorporating garlic, parsley, coriander, and paprika adds flavor without extra calories, as well as health-promoting properties.

Make Ahead and Storage Tips

  • Preparation: Make the tomato sauce in advance and store it refrigerated for up to 3 days. Fry the zucchini just before serving to maintain its crispiness.
  • Leftovers: Store fried zucchini and sauce separately in airtight containers. Reheat in the oven or air fryer to restore crunchiness, and gently warm the sauce on the stovetop.
  • Freezing: Fried zucchini is best enjoyed fresh; freezing can lead to sogginess. The sauce can be frozen for longer storage.

What to Serve with Fried Zucchini with Tomato Sauce

This dish pairs beautifully with:

  • Crusty bread: Perfect for dipping into the sauce.
  • Salad: A light green salad complements the richness.
  • Pasta: Serve alongside your favorite pasta for a hearty meal.
  • Frying pan: A heavy-bottomed pan ensures even frying.
  • Spatula: For flipping the zucchini.
  • Blender or food processor: For smoothly combining the sauce ingredients.

Variations

  • Baked Zucchini: For a healthier twist, coat the zucchini slices with seasoned breadcrumbs or panko and bake at 200°C (400°F) for 20-25 minutes until crispy. No oil needed!
  • Cheese Variations: Swap or mix cheeses—try feta, mozzarella, or a sharp aged cheese like Parmesan or Pecorino for different flavor profiles.
  • Spicy Version: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the tomato sauce for a spicy kick.
  • Herb Twists: Incorporate fresh basil, oregano, or thyme into the sauce for an aromatic boost.
  • Vegan Option: Use plant-based cheese and substitute cream with coconut cream or cashew cream to make it vegan-friendly.

Serving Suggestions

  • With Bread: Serve with crusty baguette, garlic bread, or pita to scoop up the sauce.
  • Over Pasta or Rice: For a more substantial meal, ladle the zucchini and sauce over cooked pasta or fluffy rice.
  • Salad Side: Pair with a crisp green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette to balance the richness.
  • Garnishes: Top with additional chopped parsley, a sprinkle of grated cheese, or a drizzle of olive oil for extra flavor.

Storing Leftovers

  • Refrigeration: Allow leftovers to cool completely, then store in an airtight container for up to 1-2 days.
  • Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 180°C (356°F) for about 10 minutes or in an air fryer to restore crispiness. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep the zucchini crispy.
  • Freezing: Fried zucchini is best enjoyed fresh; freezing may lead to sogginess. However, if necessary, freeze in a single layer on a tray, then transfer to a bag. Reheat thoroughly to enjoy.

Helpful Tips

  • Fry in batches: Avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure even cooking.
  • Adjust thickness: If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of water or broth to reach your desired consistency.
  • Taste as you go: Adjust seasoning for the perfect balance of flavors.

Fried Zucchini with Tomato Sauce is a versatile dish that showcases the wonderful flavors of summer vegetables. Simple to prepare yet full of taste, it makes for a comforting addition to any meal. Whether enjoyed alone or as part of a larger spread, this Main Course is sure to bring smiles and satisfaction to the table. Enjoy this delightful combination as a celebration of fresh ingredients and hearty cooking.

More Delicious Recipes You’ll Love

Fried Zucchini with Tomato Sauce

Fried Zucchini with Tomato Sauce is a delightful easy-to-make dish that combines crispy zucchini slices with a rich flavorful sauce whether you’re looking for a quick snack or a comforting main course.

Fried Zucchini with Tomato Sauce
Prep Time 15 mins Cook Time 20 mins Total Time 35 mins Servings: 4 Calories: 128 Best Season: Summer

Ingredients

Instructions

  1. In a frying pan, warm the vegetable oil over medium-high heat.

  1. Fry the zucchini slices until golden brown on both sides. Remove and drain on paper towels.

  1. In the same pan, add a little more oil if needed and sauté the minced garlic until fragrant.

  1. Add the tomato paste, coriander, paprika, and salt. Cook for a minute to combine flavors.

  1. Pour in the cream, stirring well. Let it simmer gently until slightly thickened.

  1. Place the fried zucchini in a baking dish. Pour the creamy tomato sauce over the zucchini. Sprinkle the grated cheese on top.

  1. Bake in a preheated oven at 200°C (392°F) for 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

  1. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving. Enjoy your flavorful baked zucchini dish.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4 ServingCalories:128kcalTotal Fat:10gSaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol:5mgSodium:568mgPotassium:644mgTotal Carbohydrate:7gDietary Fiber: 2gSugars: 4gProtein:7gVitamin A: 2257IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 106mgIron: 1mg

Note

Note 1: For a healthier version, you can oven-bake the zucchini instead of frying.

Note 2: Use fresh parsley for the best flavor, but dried parsley can be used if fresh is unavailable.

Note 3: Adjust the amount of cheese to your preference—more for a cheesier topping.

Note 4: Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the sauce to give it a little kick of spice.

Keywords: fried zucchini with tomato sauce,creamy zucchini recipe,easy zucchini recipe

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Jessica Maraite

A Food Blogger

Eating is a shared experience, a delight, and a passion for me. I think it's important to consume tasty, nutritious food that tastes wonderful. My meals are easy to make and work with a variety of schedules. You'll discover protein-rich main meals, keto breakfasts, low-carb supper ideas, and more!

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