Maggiano’s Fried Zucchini Fritte Recipe

Maggiano’s Fried Zucchini Fritte is one of those dishes that feels like a little celebration every time you eat it. If you’ve ever been to Maggiano’s Little Italy, you know they have a way of turning simple ingredients into something truly special. This crispy, golden zucchini is no exception—it’s the perfect mix of light, crunchy, and flavorful. Thinly sliced zucchini is coated in a seasoned breading and fried to crispy perfection, making it a delicious appetizer everyone will love.

You can whip it up on a lazy weekend, surprise your family with something new at dinner, or enjoy it as a quick treat to brighten your day. It’s easy to make, delicious, and pairs perfectly with your favorite dipping sauce, making it a great addition to any meal or a standout appetizer.

Now, let’s learn how to recreate Maggiano’s Fried Zucchini Fritte recipe at home with ease.

Ingredients List

For the Zucchini Fritte:

• 2-3 small fresh zucchinis: Slice them lengthwise into about ¼-inch thick pieces. Lightly salt the zucchini to draw out moisture and enhance the flavor.
• 2 large eggs: Beaten, these will help bind the coating to the zucchini slices.
• A few drops of Tabasco sauce (optional): Adds a subtle kick of heat.
• Salt and pepper: Season to taste.

For the Dry Coating Mix:

• ½ cup cornstarch: Helps create a crisp, light coating.
• ½ teaspoon sea salt (or as per taste): Enhances flavor.
• ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper: Adds a touch of spice.
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder: For savory depth.
• ½ teaspoon onion powder: Complements the garlic flavor.
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika: Gives a smoky, rich taste.
• ¼ teaspoon oregano (optional): Adds a bit of herby flavor.

For the Breading:

• 2-3 cups Panko breadcrumbs: Provides a crispy, crunchy texture.

For Frying:

• Vegetable oil or canola oil: Used for frying, ensuring that the zucchini becomes golden and crispy.

For the Dipping Sauce:

• 1 cup plain yogurt: Acts as the creamy base for the sauce.
• 1 Persian cucumber, shredded: Adds a refreshing crunch.
• 2 teaspoons chopped parsley: Brings freshness and color.
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice: Adds a tangy brightness to the sauce.
• 1 heaping teaspoon minced garlic: For a zesty kick.
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder: Enhances the garlic flavor.
• ½ teaspoon onion powder: Complements the garlic.
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika: Adds a smoky element.
• Salt and fresh ground black pepper: Season to taste.
• 1 teaspoon mayonnaise (optional): Adds extra creaminess to the dipping sauce.

Recipe Substitutions

1. Zucchini: Swap with yellow squash or frozen zucchini (thaw and drain).
2. Eggs: Use a flax egg, aquafaba, or buttermilk as a substitute.
3. Dry Coating Mix: Substitute cornstarch with all-purpose flour or almond flour for gluten-free.
4. Breading: Regular breadcrumbs or crushed crackers work if you don’t have panko.
5. Dipping Sauce: Greek yogurt or sour cream can replace plain yogurt, and fresh dill can replace parsley. Regular cucumber can be used in place of Persian cucumber.

Kitchen Appliances Needed

1. A sharp knife and cutting board
2. Mixing bowls
3. A frying pan
4. A slotted spoon or tongs
5. A plate lined with paper towels
6. A grater (for shredding cucumber)

How To Make Maggiano’s Fried Zucchini Fritte

Step 1 | Prepare the Zucchini

Slice the zucchini lengthwise into ¼-inch thick pieces. Sprinkle lightly with salt and set aside for a few minutes to draw out moisture. Pat dry with a paper towel.

Step 2 | Prepare the Egg Mixture

In a small bowl, whisk together the eggs, a pinch of salt, pepper, and a few drops of Tabasco sauce (if using).

Step 3 | Prepare the Dry Coating Mix

In another bowl, combine cornstarch, sea salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and oregano. Mix well.

Step 4 | Coat the Zucchini

Dip each zucchini slice into the dry coating mix, then into the egg mixture, ensuring it’s evenly coated. Finally, press the slice into Panko breadcrumbs, ensuring a thick, even layer. Shake off any excess breadcrumbs.

Step 5 | Fry the Zucchini

Heat a shallow layer of vegetable oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the zucchini slices, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Fry until golden brown on one side, then flip and cook the other side. Remove and place on a paper towel-lined plate.

Step 6 | Prepare the Dipping Sauce

In a bowl, mix yogurt, shredded cucumber, parsley, lemon juice, garlic, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Adjust seasonings to taste. Chill in the fridge until ready to serve.

Step 7 | Serve and Enjoy!

Plate the fried zucchini and serve with the dipping sauce on the side. Enjoy!

Recipe Notes

• Zucchini Moisture: Salt the zucchini and let it sit to remove excess moisture for crispier fries.
• Oil Temperature: Ensure oil is around 350°F for a golden, crispy texture.
• Crispy Texture: Add extra cornstarch to the dry mix if you want more crunch.
• Make-Ahead: Prep zucchini and breading ahead of time and store separately.
• Baking Option: For a lighter version, bake at 400°F for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway.

Serving Suggestions

1. As an Appetizer: Serve with your favorite dipping sauce, like marinara, ranch, or a tangy yogurt sauce, to kick off any meal.
2. With Pasta: Pair these crispy zucchini frittes with classic Italian pasta dishes like spaghetti or lasagna for a complete Italian-American feast.
3. Alongside a Salad: Combine with a fresh green salad for a light and balanced meal.
4. Topped with Parmesan: For extra flavor, sprinkle freshly grated parmesan cheese over the fried zucchini.
5. With Grilled Meats: These crispy frittes also pair wonderfully with grilled chicken, steak, or fish for a hearty meal.

Storage Tips

Refrigeration: After enjoying your fried zucchini, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Make sure the zucchini is fully cooled before storing to prevent sogginess.

Reheating: To restore the crispy texture, reheating in an oven or air fryer is your best bet. Preheat the oven to 375°F and bake for 8-10 minutes, or use an air fryer for about 5 minutes, until golden and crisp again.

Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the zucchini frittes. Lay the fried zucchini in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until firm, about 2-3 hours. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or airtight container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, cook directly from frozen in the oven or air fryer for about 10-15 minutes.

Dipping Sauce: If you have leftover dipping sauce, store it separately in an airtight container in the fridge. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. Stir well before serving again, and feel free to adjust the seasoning if needed.

Maggiano’s Fried Zucchini Fritte Recipe FAQs

1. Can I make Maggiano’s Fried Zucchini Fritte in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the zucchini and breading ahead of time. Slice the zucchini and coat it in the dry mix, egg mixture, and breadcrumbs, then store it in the fridge for up to a few hours before frying. This will save you time when you’re ready to cook.

2. How do I get the zucchini crispy?

To achieve crispy zucchini frittes, make sure to salt the zucchini slices before cooking to draw out moisture. Use cornstarch in the dry mix for a lighter, crispier coating. Fry at the right temperature (350°F) to get that perfect golden crunch without sogginess.

3. Can I use a different type of breading instead of Panko?

Yes, you can use regular breadcrumbs, crushed crackers, or even gluten-free breadcrumbs as a substitute for Panko. However, Panko breadcrumbs provide the best texture with a light and crunchy result, so it’s recommended if you want the closest match to the original.

4. Can I bake the zucchini instead of frying it?

Yes, you can bake the zucchini for a healthier version. Preheat your oven to 400°F, place the breaded zucchini on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.

5. Can I make the dipping sauce ahead of time?

Yes, the dipping sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just be sure to stir it well before serving. If you prefer a thicker sauce, feel free to adjust the ingredients to your taste.

Continue to Content

Maggiano's Fried Zucchini Fritte Recipe

Yield: 4 servings

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: 35 minutes

Enjoy Maggiano’s Fried Zucchini Fritte Recipe with crispy, golden zucchini slices and a tangy yogurt dipping sauce. Perfect appetizer for any meal or party!

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Ingredients

Ingredients for Fried Zucchini Fritte:

• 2-3 small fresh zucchinis, sliced into ¼-inch thick pieces
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• A few drops of Tabasco sauce (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Dry Coating Mix:

• ½ cup cornstarch
• ½ teaspoon sea salt
• ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• ¼ teaspoon oregano (optional)

Breading:

• 2-3 cups Panko breadcrumbs

For Frying:

• Vegetable or canola oil

Dipping Sauce:

• 1 cup plain yogurt
• 1 Persian cucumber, shredded
• 2 teaspoons chopped parsley
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1 heaping teaspoon minced garlic
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 teaspoon mayonnaise (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Zucchini: Slice the zucchini into ¼-inch pieces, sprinkle with salt, and set aside to draw out moisture.
2. Prepare Egg Mixture: Whisk eggs with salt, pepper, and Tabasco sauce.
3. Prepare Dry Coating Mix: Combine cornstarch, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and oregano.
4. Coat the Zucchini: Dip each slice into the dry mix, then the egg mixture, and finally coat with Panko breadcrumbs.
5. Fry the Zucchini: Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Fry the zucchini until golden and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side.
6. Prepare Dipping Sauce: Mix yogurt, shredded cucumber, parsley, lemon juice, garlic, and seasonings. Chill.
7. Serve: Plate the zucchini with dipping sauce on the side and enjoy!

Nutrition Information:

Serving Size: 1
Amount Per Serving: Calories: 350Total Fat: 22gSodium: 500mgCarbohydrates: 35gFiber: 3gSugar: 5gProtein: 6g

Conclusion

I hope by now you’re feeling ready to make Maggiano’s Fried Zucchini Fritte yourself! It’s an easy and tasty dish that’s sure to be a hit.

If you run into any questions while cooking, just drop them in the comment section and I’ll be happy to help. And if you try any fun twists or make your own version, be sure to share it with us!

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