Swensons' Fried Zucchini features tender zucchini slices coated in a golden, crunchy breading, delivering a crispy exterior with a juicy, flavorful interior, perfect as a savory appetizer or side dish.
Equipments
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Tongs
- Shallow dredging trays or plates
- Frying pan or deep fryer
- Slotted spoon
- Paper towels
- Baking sheet or wire rack
Ingredients
- 2 medium zucchinis
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko)
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
Ensure your zucchinis are medium-sized for even cooking and maintain their tender texture. Using panko breadcrumbs enhances crispiness, while grated parmesan cheese adds a rich, savory depth to the breading. Be sure to season the flour mixture with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper to infuse flavor throughout the crust. Fresh eggs combined with milk create a smooth coating that helps the breadcrumbs adhere perfectly. Your Fried Zucchini from the Swensons copycat menu will achieve the ideal balance of a golden, crunchy exterior and a juicy, flavorful interior for a delicious appetizer or side.
Instructions
- Wash and dry zucchinis.
- Cut zucchinis into 1/4-inch thick slices.
- Set up three dredging trays:
- Tray 1: flour + salt + black pepper
- Tray 2: eggs + milk (whisked together)
- Tray 3: breadcrumbs + parmesan + garlic powder + onion powder
- Dredge each zucchini slice in flour, shake off excess.
- Dip floured zucchini into egg mixture.
- Coat zucchini slice in breadcrumb mixture, pressing to adhere.
- Place coated slices on a baking sheet or wire rack.
- Heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil in frying pan/deep fryer to 350°F (175°C).
- Fry zucchini slices in batches (avoid overcrowding) 2–3 minutes per side, until golden brown.
- Remove fried zucchini with slotted spoon.
- Drain on paper towels or wire rack.
- Season immediately with extra salt if desired.
- Serve hot.
Substitution
Swensons' Fried Zucchini from the copycat menu delivers a crispy, golden crust with a tender, juicy zucchini center that makes a delightful appetizer or side. If you don't have panko breadcrumbs, regular breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes can be used for a similar crunch. When frying, maintain oil temperature around 350degF to avoid soggy coating and ensure even cooking. You can bake the zucchini at 400degF on a wire rack for a healthier alternative, flipping halfway through for crispiness. Make sure to pat the zucchini slices dry before dredging to help the breading adhere firmly.
Tips
Make sure zucchini slices are uniformly cut to ensure even cooking and consistent crispiness. Maintain oil temperature at 350degF (175degC) to prevent soggy breading or burnt exterior; use a thermometer for accuracy. Avoid overcrowding the pan during frying to allow proper heat circulation and maintain crisp texture. Patience is key--drain fried zucchini on paper towels or wire racks to remove excess oil and keep them crispy before serving your delicious appetizer.
Nutritions
Swensons' Fried Zucchini offers a source of vitamins and fiber from the zucchini itself, which is rich in antioxidants like vitamin C and potassium. The breading, made from all-purpose flour, panko breadcrumbs, and parmesan cheese, adds carbohydrates and protein but also contributes to higher calorie content. Frying in vegetable oil increases the dish's fat content, predominantly unsaturated fats, but excess oil absorption can raise saturated fat levels if the oil temperature is not maintained properly. Your serving will provide a balanced combination of nutrients but should be enjoyed in moderation due to the frying process.
Storage
To keep your Swensons' Fried Zucchini crispy and flavorful, store it in an airtight container lined with paper towels to absorb excess moisture. Refrigerate within two hours of frying and reheat in an oven or air fryer at 375degF (190degC) for 5-7 minutes to restore crunchiness. Avoid sealing hot zucchini immediately to prevent sogginess from steam buildup.
Variation or Alternatives
You can substitute panko breadcrumbs with crushed cornflakes or crushed tortilla chips for a different crunchy texture. Instead of frying, bake the coated zucchini slices at 425degF (220degC) for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway for a healthier option. Adding a pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper to the breadcrumb mixture gives the zucchini a subtle smoky or spicy kick. Serving your fried zucchini with a side of marinara sauce or a garlic aioli can enhance its flavor and provide a complementary dip.
Allergies
Swensons' Fried Zucchini contains wheat-based flour and breadcrumbs, which may trigger gluten allergies or sensitivities. The use of eggs and milk in the breading process can also be problematic for individuals with dairy or egg allergies. You should carefully review ingredient labels and consult with your healthcare provider if you have concerns about food allergies before enjoying this dish.
Why this recipe?
Swensons' Fried Zucchini menu item stands out with its crispy, golden-brown coating and tender, juicy zucchini inside, delivering a perfect balance of flavor and texture. The dish is seasoned to enhance its natural taste, making it a beloved choice for appetizer lovers seeking a savory, satisfying snack. You can recreate this iconic treat at home with simple ingredients and a careful frying technique, matching the restaurant's quality at a fraction of the price. Trying the copycat recipe allows you to enjoy the authentic Swensons experience anytime, impressing family and friends.