If you’re on the hunt for a recipe that’s healthy, flavorful, and easy to prepare, you’ve come to the right place. This Delicious Zucchini Recipe is the ultimate crowd-pleaser. With layers of crispy breaded zucchini, tender sautéed vegetables, gooey melted mozzarella, and a refreshing yogurt-dill sauce, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your household. Perfect for weeknight dinners, special gatherings, or even a snack, this dish is as versatile as it is satisfying.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is an ideal way to enjoy fresh zucchini and vegetables while indulging in cheesy, crispy goodness. Here’s why this dish will quickly become a staple in your meal rotation:
- It’s packed with fresh vegetables for a healthy, balanced meal.
- The crispy zucchini slices and melted mozzarella create the perfect texture combination.
- It’s family-friendly and will be a hit with kids and adults alike.
- The yogurt-dill sauce adds a refreshing and tangy twist, elevating the dish to new heights.
Ingredients
Here’s everything you’ll need to bring this delicious zucchini dish to life.
For the Zucchini Dish
Ingredient | Quantity |
---|---|
Eggs | 3 |
Salt and black pepper | To taste |
Zucchini | 2 large |
Olive oil | For frying |
Onion, finely chopped | 1 |
Carrot, grated | 1 |
Tomatoes, chopped | 2 |
Garlic cloves, minced | 2 |
Breadcrumbs | 150 g |
Provencal herbs | 1 tablespoon |
Flour | 2 tablespoons |
Paprika | 1 tablespoon |
Mozzarella, shredded | 120 g |
For the Yogurt-Dill Sauce
Ingredient | Quantity |
---|---|
Unsweetened yogurt | 200 g |
Soy sauce | 1 tablespoon |
Salt | To taste |
Garlic clove, minced | 1 |
Fresh dill, chopped | To taste |
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Vegetables
- Slice the zucchini into rounds, about 1/4 inch thick.
- Sprinkle the zucchini slices with a little salt and let them sit for 10 minutes. This helps draw out excess moisture.
- Pat the zucchini slices dry with paper towels to ensure crispiness.
- Heat a drizzle of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for 3-4 minutes, or until soft and fragrant.
- Stir in the grated carrot and chopped tomatoes. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender.
- Season the mixture with salt and black pepper to taste. Remove from heat and set aside.
2. Bread the Zucchini
- In a shallow bowl, beat the eggs with a pinch of salt and black pepper.
- In another bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, Provencal herbs, flour, and paprika.
- Dip each zucchini slice into the egg mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated, and then dredge it in the breadcrumb mixture.
- Set the breaded zucchini slices aside on a plate.
3. Cook the Zucchini
- Heat a layer of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Fry the breaded zucchini slices in batches for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
- Transfer the fried zucchini to a plate lined with paper towels to remove excess oil.
4. Assemble the Dish
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a baking dish, spread the sautéed vegetable mixture evenly across the bottom.
- Arrange the fried zucchini slices on top of the vegetable layer.
- Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the zucchini slices, creating a cheesy top layer.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
5. Prepare the Yogurt-Dill Sauce
- In a small bowl, combine unsweetened yogurt, soy sauce, minced garlic, and a pinch of salt.
- Stir the mixture until smooth.
- Add the chopped fresh dill and mix well.
6. Serve and Enjoy
- Remove the zucchini dish from the oven and let it cool slightly for about 5 minutes.
- Serve hot, paired with the yogurt-dill sauce on the side for dipping.
Tips for Success
- Draw Out Moisture from Zucchini: Salting the zucchini slices and patting them dry is crucial for achieving crispy results.
- Press Breadcrumbs Firmly: Press the breadcrumbs onto the zucchini slices to ensure an even coating.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Skillet: Fry the zucchini in small batches for consistent crispiness.
- Customize the Herbs: Swap Provencal herbs with Italian seasoning, thyme, or oregano for a flavor variation.
- Healthier Alternative: For a lighter dish, bake the breaded zucchini slices instead of frying them.
Nutritional Highlights
This recipe doesn’t just taste great; it’s also packed with essential nutrients:
- Zucchini: A low-calorie vegetable rich in vitamin C, potassium, and antioxidants.
- Carrot: High in beta-carotene and vitamin A for improved vision and immune health.
- Tomatoes: A great source of lycopene and vitamin C for heart and skin health.
- Mozzarella: Provides calcium and protein for stronger bones and muscles.
- Yogurt-Dill Sauce: A refreshing addition, packed with probiotics and herbs for digestion and flavor.
Serving Suggestions
This Delicious Zucchini Recipe is versatile and can be served in a variety of ways:
- Main Dish: Pair it with a side of garlic bread or a fresh salad.
- Side Dish: Serve alongside grilled chicken, roasted fish, or pasta for a complete meal.
- Party Appetizer: Cut into smaller portions and serve with dipping sauce for a crowd-friendly appetizer.
Storage and Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: The dish isn’t ideal for freezing due to the zucchini’s high water content.
- Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes, or in a skillet over medium heat for added crispiness.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes! Replace eggs with a flaxseed or aquafaba mixture, use plant-based yogurt, and opt for dairy-free cheese.
2. Can I skip frying the zucchini slices?
Absolutely. You can bake the breaded zucchini slices at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through for even browning.
3. Can I add other vegetables?
Feel free to include bell peppers, spinach, mushrooms, or even eggplant to add more variety and nutrition.
4. What can I substitute for Provencal herbs?
Italian seasoning, rosemary, or dried basil are excellent alternatives for Provencal herbs.
5. How can I lighten up the dish?
Bake the breaded zucchini slices instead of frying them, and use low-fat mozzarella and yogurt.
6. Can I make the sauce in advance?
Yes, the yogurt-dill sauce can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator.
Conclusion
This Delicious Zucchini Recipe is everything you could want in a meal—healthy, flavorful, and easy to prepare. The crispy zucchini slices, cheesy vegetable layers, and refreshing yogurt-dill sauce combine to create a dish that will have your family and guests raving. So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, and treat yourself to this flavorful family favorite today!
Pro Tip: Double the recipe and enjoy leftovers for a quick, satisfying meal the next day. You won’t regret it!
Print
Delicious Zucchini Recipe: A Flavorful Family Favorite
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
This Delicious Zucchini Recipe is a perfect mix of crispy breaded zucchini, tender sautéed vegetables, melted mozzarella cheese, and a tangy yogurt-dill sauce. It’s a versatile, crowd-pleasing dish that works as a main course, side dish, or party appetizer. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this recipe is easy to prepare and packed with fresh flavors.
Ingredients
For the Zucchini Dish
- 3 eggs
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 large zucchini
- Olive oil (for frying)
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 1 carrot, grated
- 2 tomatoes, chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 150 g breadcrumbs
- 1 tablespoon Provencal herbs
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 120 g mozzarella cheese, shredded
For the Yogurt-Dill Sauce
- 200 g unsweetened yogurt
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- Salt, to taste
- 1 clove of garlic, minced
- Fresh dill, chopped
Instructions
1. Prepare the Vegetables
- Slice the zucchini into rounds, about 1/4 inch thick.
- Sprinkle the slices with salt and let them sit for 10 minutes to draw out excess moisture. Pat dry with paper towels.
- Heat a drizzle of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Sauté the onion and garlic for 3-4 minutes until soft and fragrant.
- Add the grated carrot and chopped tomatoes to the skillet. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tender.
- Season the vegetable mixture with salt and black pepper, then set aside.
2. Bread the Zucchini
- Beat the eggs in a shallow bowl and season with salt and black pepper.
- In another bowl, combine breadcrumbs, Provencal herbs, flour, and paprika.
- Dip each zucchini slice into the beaten eggs, then coat them in the breadcrumb mixture. Set aside.
3. Cook the Zucchini
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Fry the breaded zucchini slices in batches, cooking each side for 2-3 minutes until golden brown.
- Remove the zucchini slices from the skillet and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil.
4. Assemble the Dish
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a baking dish, layer the sautéed vegetable mixture evenly across the bottom.
- Arrange the fried zucchini slices over the vegetable layer.
- Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the zucchini slices.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
5. Prepare the Yogurt-Dill Sauce
- In a small bowl, mix together the unsweetened yogurt, soy sauce, minced garlic, and salt.
- Add chopped fresh dill and stir well to combine.
6. Serve
- Remove the zucchini dish from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes.
- Serve hot with the yogurt-dill sauce on the side for dipping.
Notes
- Make it Healthier: Instead of frying the zucchini, bake the breaded slices in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Customization: Feel free to add other vegetables, like bell peppers or mushrooms, for extra flavor.
- Leftovers: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to maintain crispiness.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Global