Fried Zucchini

Restaurant-style fried zucchini is a family favorite! It’s simply addicting, especially dipped in ranch or marinara.

Fried zucchini is our favorite way to enjoy one of our favorite vegetables! We love to serve it with a favorite dipping sauce such as a Marinara Sauce or Homemade Ranch Dressing.

A Crispy Appetizer

Fried zucchini happens to be my favorite appetizer in the whole world! It’s a recipe we have at least once a month, for Sunday dinner, and it’s always gone in minutes!

You can serve this in different ways, depending on how you cut the zucchini (discs or sticks). However you make it, it’s always delicious.

We’ve tried several versions over the years, and now have baked zucchini fries and Zucchini Chips. They are also delicious!

How to Make Fried Zucchini

Other than a little time, this fried zucchini recipe doesn’t take much. The steps are simple, as well as the ingredients.

PREP. Heat oil to medium heat.

Slice zucchini into several circles. Add 10-15 slices of zucchini into a bowl of milk to coat.

COAT. From there, add slices to a bowl filled with the flour, coat.

Put slices back into the milk and make sure they get all wet again.

Add slices to a bowl filled with Panko crumbs, coat.

FRY. Fry until golden brown, turning to ensure equal browning on both sides. Repeat the process until all the slices are breaded and fried.

Variations 

If you’re looking to add some variation, try:

• Adding parmesan cheese, chili flakes, garlic powder, or cayenne pepper to the breadcrumbs before frying.
• Use a seasoned breadcrumb or Panko mixture. The Italian versions with oregano and basil are some of our favorites!

Air fry zucchini

A great healthy alternative to traditional pan frying is to use an air fryer.

PREP. Heat your air fryer to 390°F. Prepare your zucchini according to recipe directions.

FRY. Working in batches place a single layer of zucchini rounds, or fries in the air fryer basket. Cook for 5-7 minutes until crispy.

You can also use the Air Fryer Zucchini recipe, or check out our Baked Zucchini Fries.

Recipe Tips

Deep fried zucchini is quick and easy, use these tips to ensure they turn out perfectly!

Oil. I use vegetable oil, but canola oil or peanut oil are also great options to make this breaded zucchini. Add 1½-2 inches of oil to the pan, and heat it up to 350°F. If you don’t have a thermometer:

• Test the oil is ready by inserting the end of a wooden spoon into the oil.
• It should immediately bubble around the handle.
• If it doesn’t bubble the oil is too cold.
• If it bubbles and splatters vigorously, the oil may be too hot.
• When you think you have the right temperature, fry 1-2 test pieces and adjust. 

Salting the zucchini. Salting the zucchini causes the vegetable to “sweat”, relieving the zucchini from extra moisture. I don’t use this method and haven’t had problems with soggy zucchini. However, you can definitely give it a try:

• Lay the sliced zucchini out on a paper towel.
• Sprinkle some sea salt over the slices, and let sit for about 30 minutes.
• The extra moisture will be released and absorbed by the paper towel.
• Pat the tops with another paper towel before proceeding with the recipe.

How to Reheat Zucchini 

This recipe for fried zucchini is ideal when eaten right away.

STORE. If you happen to have leftover zucchini bites, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days or in the freezer for 6-8 weeks.

To reheat. The best way to reheat them is in the oven.

• Broil them on low for 2-4 minutes.
• Or place them in a preheated oven at 375°F for 5-7 minutes, until they are heated through.

Recipe FAQ

For More Zucchini Recipes, Try:

• Parmesan Crusted Zucchini
• Cheesy Zucchini Casserole
• Zucchini Boats
• Baked Zucchini Chips
• Zucchini Chicken Alfredo Roll Ups 
• Baked Zucchini Fries