Parmesan-Crusted Fried Zucchini Coins

Ingredients

• 3 medium zucchini, sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 1 cup Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp dried basil
• 1/2 tsp dried oregano
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• Vegetable oil for frying

Spicy Marinara Dipping Sauce:

• 1 cup marinara sauce
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
• 1 tbsp fresh basil, chopped

Instructions

1. Set up a breading station: Place flour in one shallow dish, beaten eggs in another, and mix breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper in a third dish.
2. Dip each zucchini slice first in flour, then egg, and finally coat with the breadcrumb mixture.
3. Place breaded slices on a baking sheet.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Working in batches, fry the zucchini coins for 2-3 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy.
6. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels. Sprinkle with additional salt while hot, if desired.
7. For the dipping sauce, mix marinara sauce with red pepper flakes in a small saucepan. Heat until warm, then stir in fresh basil.
8. Serve the hot, crispy zucchini coins immediately with the spicy marinara dipping sauce on the side.

Crunch into these golden, Parmesan-crusted zucchini coins and let the crispy exterior give way to the tender, flavorful interior – a perfect harmony of textures and tastes that’ll make you forget you’re eating vegetables and have you reaching for “just one more” until the plate is magically empty!