Crispy Oven-Baked Zucchini Rings

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🌿 Crispy Oven-Baked Zucchini Rings

📖 Description

These Crispy Oven-Baked Zucchini Rings are a healthy twist on traditional fried onion rings. Fresh zucchini slices are coated in a light, seasoned breadcrumb mixture and baked until golden and crunchy. Perfect as a snack, appetizer, or side dish, they’re guilt-free, flavorful, and irresistibly crisp without deep frying.

🥒 Ingredients

  • 2 medium zucchinis, cut into ½-inch thick slices (rings, seeds scooped if needed)

  • 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko for extra crunch)

  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for cheesy flavor)

  • ½ cup all-purpose flour (or almond flour for low-carb)

  • 2 large eggs, beaten

  • 1 tsp garlic powder

  • 1 tsp paprika

  • ½ tsp black pepper

  • ½ tsp salt

  • Olive oil spray (for crispiness)

👩‍🍳 Instructions

  1. Prep zucchini – Wash and cut zucchini into thick rings (like onion rings). Pat dry with paper towels.

  2. Preheat oven – Set to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease with oil.

  3. Set up dredging station:

    • Bowl 1: Flour with salt & pepper.

    • Bowl 2: Beaten eggs.

    • Bowl 3: Breadcrumbs, Parmesan, garlic powder, paprika.

  4. Coat zucchini rings – Dip each ring into flour, then egg, then breadcrumb mix, pressing lightly for coating.

  5. Arrange & bake – Place rings on the sheet in a single layer. Spray lightly with olive oil.

  6. Bake for 18–22 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crispy.

  7. Serve warm with marinara sauce, ranch, or garlic aioli.

📝 Notes

  • For extra crunch, use panko breadcrumbs.

  • Zucchini releases moisture — pat dry before coating to prevent sogginess.

  • Can also be made in an air fryer at 400°F (200°C) for 12–14 minutes.

💡 Tips

  • Add chili flakes for a spicy kick.

  • Use gluten-free breadcrumbs if needed.

  • Best served immediately for maximum crispiness.

  • Double coat (egg + breadcrumbs twice) for a thicker crust.

🍽 Servings

  • Makes 4 servings (as a side or appetizer).

🔢 Nutritional Info (per serving, approx.)

  • Calories: 165 kcal

  • Protein: 7 g

  • Carbohydrates: 18 g

  • Fat: 7 g

  • Fiber: 3 g

  • Sodium: 260 mg

🌱 Benefits

  • Low calorie alternative to fried snacks.

  • Rich in vitamin C, potassium, and antioxidants.

  • Good source of fiber for digestion.

  • Baked instead of fried → heart-healthy option.

❓ Q&A

Q1: Can I make these ahead of time?
A: Best enjoyed fresh, but you can prep the coated rings and refrigerate for up to 6 hours before baking.

Q2: Can I freeze them?
A: Yes! Freeze coated zucchini on a tray, then store in a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding 5 extra minutes.

Q3: What dipping sauce goes best?
A: Marinara, ranch, chipotle mayo, or tzatziki pair wonderfully.

Q4: Can I make it vegan?
A: Yes — replace egg with plant-based milk + cornstarch mixture, and Parmesan with nutritional yeast.

Q5: Why are mine soggy?
A: Likely too much moisture in zucchini. Pat them dry and avoid crowding on the baking tray.

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