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Zucchini is often hailed as one of the most versatile vegetables in the culinary world. Whether grilled, sautéed, or baked, this summer squash adapts seamlessly into a variety of dishes, pleasing the palates of both health enthusiasts and comfort food lovers alike. Among its many iterations, zucchini nuggets stand out as a particularly delightful snack or appetizer. These bite-sized morsels not only provide a crunchy texture that tantalizes the taste buds but also pack a punch of nutrition, making them an irresistible option for any occasion.

Zucchini Nuggets

Discover the joy of making crunchy zucchini nuggets, a delightful snack that combines health and flavor. With a crispy panko coating and tender zucchini inside, these bite-sized treats are perfect for any occasion—from after-school snacks to party appetizers. Easy to prepare and packed with nutrition, they cater to all ages and dietary preferences. Enjoy them plain or with your favorite dipping sauce, and make veggie consumption fun for everyone!
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Ingredients
  

2 medium zucchinis, grated

1 cup breadcrumbs (Panko for that extra crunch)

½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 large egg, beaten

½ cup all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon garlic powder

½ teaspoon onion powder

½ teaspoon smoked paprika

Salt and pepper to taste

Olive oil spray (or enough for frying)

Instructions
 

Prepare the Zucchini: Start by grating the zucchinis using either a box grater or a food processor. Once grated, transfer the zucchini to a clean kitchen towel and squeeze out as much moisture as possible. This crucial step helps achieve that crunchy texture we're aiming for, preventing the nuggets from ending up soggy.

    Mix the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained zucchini with the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, beaten egg, flour, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, along with a generous pinch of salt and pepper. Mix everything together thoroughly until all the ingredients are evenly blended and start to form a cohesive mixture. If the mixture feels overly wet, simply stir in a little extra flour until it reaches the right consistency.

      Form the Nuggets: With clean hands, take portions of the mixture and shape them into nugget-sized patties, aiming for a size of approximately 2 inches long and 1 inch thick. Ensuring uniform size is important for even cooking.

        Preheat Your Cooking Surface: If you plan to bake the nuggets, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly spray it with olive oil. For the frying method, heat a large skillet over medium heat and pour in enough oil to cover the bottom by about ½ inch.

          Cook the Nuggets:

            - Baking Method: Arrange the shaped nuggets on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer. Lightly spray the tops with olive oil for added crispiness. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, flipping them halfway through, until they are golden brown and crispy.

              - Frying Method: Carefully place the nuggets into the hot oil, working in batches to avoid overcrowding the skillet. Fry them for about 3-4 minutes on each side or until they become golden and crispy. Once cooked, transfer to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil.

                Serve: Enjoy your crunchy zucchini nuggets warm, accompanied by your preferred dipping sauce, whether it be marinara, ranch, or a zesty spicy aioli. These bites make for an ideal appetizer, snack, or a delicious side dish!

                  Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 30-40 minutes | Serves 4-6 |

                    Savor the joy of these nutritious and delightful crunchy zucchini nuggets! 🌱