Homemade zucchini parmigiana

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Step 1: Prepare the Zucchini

  1. Slice the Zucchini:
    • Thinly slice the zucchinis lengthwise (about ¼ inch thick) using a sharp knife or mandoline slicer. Sprinkle with salt and let them rest for 15-20 minutes on a paper towel to draw out excess moisture.
  2. Set up a Dredging Station:
    • Set up three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with breadcrumbs mixed with grated Parmesan, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and oregano.
  3. Coat the Zucchini:
    • Pat the zucchini slices dry, then dip each slice into the flour, shaking off excess. Next, dip it into the egg, and finally coat it with the breadcrumb mixture. Set the breaded zucchini aside on a baking sheet.

Step 2: Cook the Zucchini

  1. Fry or Bake the Zucchini:
    • For frying:
      • Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the zucchini slices in batches until golden brown and crispy, about 2-3 minutes per side. Drain them on paper towels to remove excess oil.
    • For baking:
      • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the breaded zucchini slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Lightly spray them with cooking oil and bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crisp.

Step 3: Prepare the Sauce

  1. Make the Marinara Sauce:
    • In a medium saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about a minute until fragrant.
    • Add the marinara sauce, dried basil, and sugar (if using). Let it simmer for about 10 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Set aside.

Step 4: Assemble the Parmigiana

  1. Layer the Zucchini Parmigiana:
    • Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) if not already heated. In a large baking dish, spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom.
    • Add a single layer of fried or baked zucchini slices over the sauce.
    • Spread a layer of ricotta cheese (if using), then top with some of the shredded mozzarella and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan.
    • Spoon more marinara sauce over the cheese, then repeat the layers: zucchini, ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, and sauce, until all ingredients are used.
  2. Top with Cheese:
    • Finish with a final layer of marinara sauce and a generous topping of shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.

Step 5: Bake the Parmigiana

  1. Bake:
    • Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
    • Remove the foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

Step 6: Serve

  1. Garnish and Rest:
    • Let the zucchini parmigiana rest for 10 minutes before serving. This helps the layers set and makes it easier to slice.
    • Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a burst of color and flavor.
  2. Enjoy:
    • Serve the zucchini parmigiana with a side of crusty bread, a light salad, or even pasta for a complete meal.

Tips for Success:

  • Avoid Soggy Zucchini:
    • Salting the zucchini slices and letting them rest is key to drawing out moisture. Pat them dry thoroughly before dredging to ensure a crispy texture.
  • Crispy Breadcrumbs:
    • If you’re baking the zucchini slices, be sure to lightly spray them with oil for maximum crispiness without frying.
  • Make It Ahead:
    • You can assemble the zucchini parmigiana up to a day in advance and refrigerate it before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s going straight from the fridge to the oven.

Why You’ll Love This Zucchini Parmigiana:

  • Healthier Twist on a Classic:
    • This dish swaps out the eggplant for zucchini, which brings a milder flavor and a lighter texture to the parmigiana.
  • Rich and Comforting:
    • With layers of crispy zucchini, rich marinara sauce, and plenty of melted cheese, this dish is hearty and satisfying without being overly heavy.
  • Versatile and Crowd-Pleasing:
    • Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or serving it at a gathering, this zucchini parmigiana is a sure hit. Plus, it’s a great way to use up surplus zucchini!

This Homemade Zucchini Parmigiana is the perfect comfort food that highlights the best of seasonal produce. Whether baked or fried, the zucchini turns irresistibly crispy, and paired with layers of tangy sauce and gooey cheese, it’s a dish that will have everyone asking for seconds!

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