If you’re searching for a delicious, healthy, and easy-to-make snack or side dish, look no further than crispy baked courgettes. Also known as zucchini in some regions, courgettes are a versatile vegetable that can be transformed into a crunchy delight with just a few simple ingredients. This recipe offers a fantastic alternative to traditional fried snacks, delivering the satisfying crunch you crave without the excess oil and calories.
Why Choose Baked Over Fried?
Frying vegetables often involves submerging them in oil, which can add unnecessary calories and fats to your diet. Baking, on the other hand, uses significantly less oil, resulting in a lighter dish that’s still full of flavor and texture. By opting for baked courgettes, you’re making a healthier choice without compromising on taste.
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For the Courgettes:
- 2 medium-sized courgettes
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to tasteDa Recipe Corner+5Greenku Recipes+5Healthy Fitness Meals+5
- For the Batter:
- 3 eggs
- 3 tablespoons of all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons of grated cheese (such as Parmesan)
- 1 teaspoon of garlic powderReddit+16Healthy Fitness Meals+16Da Recipe Corner+16Olga Gotuje+5Greenku Recipes+5Healthy Fitness Meals+5
- For the Coating:
- 50 grams of all-purpose flour
- 100 grams of breadcrumbsGreenku Recipes+1Fox and Briar+1
- For Baking:
- A light drizzle of vegetable oil or use cooking spray
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Preheat Your Oven:
- Set your oven to 220°C (428°F) and line a baking tray with parchment paper.
- Prepare the Courgettes:
- Wash the courgettes thoroughly and cut them into slices or sticks, depending on your preference.
- Season the slices with salt and black pepper.Greenku Recipes+1Fox and Briar+1
- Make the Batter:
- In a mixing bowl, beat the eggs.
- Add 3 tablespoons of flour, grated cheese, and garlic powder to the eggs. Mix well until you achieve a smooth batter.Greenku Recipes
- Set Up the Coating Stations:
- Place 50 grams of flour in one shallow dish.
- Place 100 grams of breadcrumbs in another shallow dish.Greenku Recipes
- Coat the Courgette Slices:
- Dip each courgette slice first into the flour, ensuring it’s lightly coated.
- Next, dip it into the egg batter, allowing any excess to drip off.
- Finally, coat the slice with breadcrumbs, pressing gently to ensure they adhere well.Greenku Recipes
- Arrange on Baking Tray:
- Place the coated courgette slices on the prepared baking tray in a single layer, ensuring they don’t overlap.
- Lightly drizzle with vegetable oil or spray with cooking spray to help them crisp up in the oven.
- Bake to Perfection:
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, flipping the slices halfway through to ensure even browning.
- They should be golden brown and crispy on the outside.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly.
- Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce or enjoy them as is!
Tips for the Best Crispy Baked Courgettes:
- Uniform Slices: Cutting the courgettes into uniform slices ensures even cooking. Using a mandoline slicer can help achieve consistent thickness.
- Dry the Courgettes: After washing, pat the courgette slices dry with a paper towel. Removing excess moisture helps achieve a crispier texture.
- Use Panko Breadcrumbs: For an extra crunch, consider using panko breadcrumbs instead of regular ones. Panko has a coarser texture that crisps up beautifully when baked.
- Add Herbs and Spices: Feel free to customize the batter or breadcrumb mixture with your favorite herbs and spices, such as paprika, oregano, or thyme, to add more flavor.
Serving Suggestions:
Crispy baked courgettes are incredibly versatile. Here are some ideas on how to serve them:
- As a Snack: Serve with a side of marinara sauce, garlic aioli, or a yogurt-based dip for a delightful snack.
- Side Dish: Pair them with grilled meats, pasta dishes, or salads for a complete meal.
- Appetizer: Present them as an appetizer at gatherings or parties. Their crispy texture and savory flavor are sure to be a hit!
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: Approximately 200 kcal
- Protein: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fat: 8g
- Fiber: 2g
Note: Nutritional values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients used.
Conclusion:
Crispy baked courgettes are a delightful and healthier alternative to traditional fried snacks. With their golden-brown exterior and tender interior, they offer a satisfying crunch that’s perfect for any occasion. Easy to prepare and customizable to your taste preferences, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Whether you’re serving them as a snack, side dish, or appetizer, crispy baked courgettes are bound to impress!