Are you tired of bland, mushy vegetable side dishes that nobody wants to eat? Get ready to transform your zucchini game with this incredibly simple yet mouthwatering pan-fried recipe that will have everyone asking for seconds! In just 15 minutes, you'll create a golden, crispy, and flavor-packed dish that's so delicious, even veggie-skeptics won't be able to resist. Whether you're looking for a quick side dish or a light appetizer, this easy pan-fried zucchini recipe is about to become your new kitchen superstar.
Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 15 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 medium zucchinis, sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Wash the zucchinis thoroughly under cool running water to remove any dirt or debris.
- Using a sharp knife, trim off both ends of the zucchinis and slice them into uniform 1/4-inch thick rounds. Aim for consistent thickness to ensure even cooking.
- Pat the zucchini slices dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps achieve better browning and crispiness.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat until the oil is shimmering but not smoking.
- Carefully arrange zucchini slices in a single layer in the hot skillet, ensuring they are not overcrowded. You may need to cook in batches to prevent steaming.
- Sprinkle garlic powder, salt, and pepper evenly over the zucchini slices.
- Cook for 3-4 minutes on the first side until the bottom develops a golden-brown color and crispy edges.
- Flip the zucchini slices and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes on the other side until they are tender and have a nice golden color.
- Remove the zucchini from the skillet and place on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any excess oil.
- Serve immediately while hot and enjoy as a side dish or light appetizer.
Tips
- Moisture is the Enemy: Always pat your zucchini slices dry before cooking to ensure maximum crispiness. Excess water will prevent proper browning.
- Don't Overcrowd the Pan: Cook zucchini in batches if necessary. Overcrowding will cause steaming instead of frying, preventing that desirable golden-brown crust.
- Use Medium-High Heat: This ensures a perfect crispy exterior while keeping the inside tender.
- Season Generously: Don't be shy with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. These simple seasonings can elevate the flavor dramatically.
- Serve Immediately: Zucchini is best enjoyed hot and crispy right after cooking. The longer it sits, the softer it becomes.
- Experiment with Variations: Try adding parmesan cheese, Italian herbs, or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for extra flavor.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 45kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
