🥒 Pan-Fried Zucchini
Serves: 2–4 | Prep Time: 5 mins | Cook Time: 10 mins
🛒 Ingredients:
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2 medium zucchini, sliced into ¼-inch rounds
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2 tbsp olive oil (or butter, or a combo)
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2 cloves garlic, minced (optional)
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Salt and black pepper, to taste
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Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes or Italian seasoning
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Optional garnish: grated Parmesan, fresh herbs (like parsley or basil), or a squeeze of lemon
👩🍳 Instructions:
1. Prep the Zucchini
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Wash and dry the zucchini.
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Slice into ¼-inch thick rounds (or half-moons if preferred).
2. Heat the Pan
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Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
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Once hot, add zucchini slices in a single layer (work in batches if needed — don’t overcrowd).
3. Fry
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Cook for 3–4 minutes on the first side without stirring, until golden brown.
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Flip and cook another 2–3 minutes on the other side until tender and lightly browned.
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Add garlic in the last 1–2 minutes of cooking if using — don’t let it burn.
4. Season and Serve
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Season with salt, pepper, and any optional seasonings.
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Remove from heat and sprinkle with Parmesan or herbs, if desired.
🔄 Variations:
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Crispy Parmesan Crust: Dust zucchini rounds with a little flour and Parmesan before frying.
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Spicy twist: Add cayenne or smoked paprika.
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Asian-style: Fry in sesame oil and finish with soy sauce and sesame seeds.
Would you like a breaded version, or a low-oil air-fried alternative?
