Zucchini Chops with Garlic-Dill Dip

These crispy and flavorful Zucchini Chops are a delightful way to enjoy the mild taste of zucchini, enhanced by a golden, cheesy coating. Paired with a creamy garlic-dill dip, this dish is perfect as an appetizer, snack, or even a light meal. The combination of tender zucchini with a crunchy exterior makes it a hit for all ages.

Preparation Time:

• Total time: 30 minutes

Ingredients:

For the Zucchini Chops:

• 2 young zucchinis
• 4 eggs
• Salt and pepper (to taste)
• 3.5 ounces (100g) hard cheese, grated
• Ground sweet pepper (to taste)
• Italian herbs (to taste)
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (about 60g)
• 1/3 cup plain flour (about 40g)
• Oil (for frying)

For the Garlic-Dill Dip:

• 2 tablespoons Greek yogurt
• 1 teaspoon mayonnaise
• Dill (to taste), finely chopped
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• Salt (to taste)

Directions:

1. Preparing the Zucchini:
   • Wash and dry the zucchinis. Cut them into slices less than a centimeter thick.
   • Gently tap each slice with a meat mallet to tenderize.
   • Season the slices with salt and pepper to enhance their flavor.
2. Creating the Egg Mixture:
   • Crack the eggs into a bowl and beat them until smooth.
   • Add sweet paprika, Italian herbs, and grated hard cheese to the eggs. Mix well to create a flavorful egg-cheese mixture.
   • On a separate plate, combine breadcrumbs and plain flour.
3. Coating and Frying:
   • Dip each slice of zucchini into the breadcrumb-flour mixture, ensuring it’s evenly coated.
   • Then, dip the coated slices into the egg-cheese mixture.
   • Heat oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Fry the zucchini slices until they turn golden brown on both sides, about 3-4 minutes per side.
   • Remove and place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
4. Making the Garlic-Dill Dip:
   • In a small bowl, combine Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, chopped dill, minced garlic, and salt.
   • Mix until the dip is smooth and creamy.

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve the zucchini chops hot with the garlic-dill dip on the side.
• Pair with a fresh green salad for a light meal.
• These chops can also be served as a side dish alongside grilled meats.
• Garnish with extra dill or a sprinkle of parmesan cheese for added flavor.

Cooking Tips:

• Make sure the oil is hot before frying to ensure a crispy exterior.
• If you prefer a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the breadcrumb mixture.
• To make the chops even crispier, double-coat them by repeating the breadcrumb and egg mixture steps.
• Use freshly grated cheese for better melting and flavor.

Nutritional Benefits:

• Zucchini is low in calories and high in vitamins A and C.
• Greek yogurt in the dip provides a good source of protein and probiotics.
• The dish is rich in protein from the eggs and cheese.
• Contains healthy fats from the use of olive oil for frying.

Dietary Information:

• This recipe is vegetarian.
• To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour.
• It can be made dairy-free by omitting the cheese and using a dairy-free yogurt alternative for the dip.

Nutritional Facts (per serving):

• Calories: 300
• Protein: 10g
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Dietary Fiber: 2g
• Sugars: 4g
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Cholesterol: 150mg
• Sodium: 450mg
• Calcium: 150mg
• Iron: 2mg

Storage:

• Store leftover zucchini chops in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• Reheat in the oven or air fryer to retain crispiness.
• The garlic-dill dip can be stored separately in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• It’s quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• The combination of crispy zucchini with a creamy dip is irresistible.
• The recipe is versatile and can be customized with different herbs and spices.
• It’s a great way to enjoy zucchini, even for those who might not usually like it.

Conclusion: These Zucchini Chops with Garlic-Dill Dip offer a delightful blend of textures and flavors that will make them a favorite at your table. The crispiness of the fried zucchini, combined with the rich and tangy dip, makes this dish a standout. Whether served as an appetizer, side, or snack, this recipe is sure to impress. Enjoy the simplicity and deliciousness of this dish any time you crave something tasty and satisfying.

10 Frequently Asked Questions:

1. Can I bake the zucchini chops instead of frying?
   • Yes, you can bake them at 200°C (400°F) for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through for even crispiness.
2. What type of cheese works best for this recipe?
   • Parmesan, cheddar, or gouda are all great options, but any hard cheese will work.
3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
   • You can prepare the zucchini and coating mixture ahead of time, but fry them just before serving for the best texture.
4. How can I make the dish spicier?
   • Add cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the breadcrumb mixture for an extra kick.
5. What can I use instead of Greek yogurt in the dip?
   • Sour cream or a plant-based yogurt alternative works well as a substitute.
6. Can I use different herbs in the recipe?
   • Absolutely! Basil, thyme, or oregano can be used instead of or in addition to Italian herbs.
7. How do I prevent the zucchini from becoming soggy?
   • Ensure the oil is hot enough before frying, and don’t overcrowd the pan.
8. What can I serve with zucchini chops?
   • They pair well with grilled meats, salads, or even pasta dishes.
9. Can I freeze the zucchini chops?
   • It’s best to enjoy them fresh, but you can freeze them before frying and then cook them directly from frozen.
10. How do I reheat leftovers?
    • Reheat in an oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 10 minutes or in an air fryer to maintain crispiness.