**Zucchini Frico: A Delightful Fusion of Zucchini, Cheese, and Potatoes**
Zucchini Frico is a unique and delectable dish that combines the vibrant flavors of zucchini, the rich creaminess of cheese, and the earthy goodness of potatoes. Originating from the northern Italian region of Friuli-Venezia Giulia, this savory treat is a testament to the region's culinary heritage. The combination of crispy edges and a soft, flavorful center makes it a delightful appetizer or side dish. Zucchini Frico is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed on its own, paired with fresh salads, or even incorporated into sandwiches and wraps. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal preparation, you can create this delectable dish that's perfect for any occasion.
**Recipes Included:**
* **Classic Zucchini Frico:** This recipe showcases the simplicity and authenticity of the traditional Zucchini Frico. Using fresh zucchini, grated Parmesan cheese, and a hint of garlic, this version captures the essence of this Italian classic.
* **Loaded Zucchini Frico:** For those who love a more indulgent twist, the Loaded Zucchini Frico adds a layer of flavor with crumbled bacon, diced tomatoes, and a touch of chili flakes. This variation offers a delightful balance of textures and flavors.
* **Zucchini Frico with Herbs:** This recipe infuses the Zucchini Frico with the aromatic essence of fresh herbs. With a combination of basil, oregano, and thyme, this version adds a delightful burst of herbal freshness to the dish.
* **Zucchini Frico with Sweet Potato:** For a healthier and more colorful take on the classic, this recipe incorporates sweet potato into the mix. The combination of zucchini and sweet potato creates a vibrant and nutritious dish that's packed with flavor.
ZUCCHINI FRICO
It may be daunting to imagine, but this dish is really quite simple. All you do is take some good hard cheese, grate it, spread it in a nonstick pan and let it melt until it turns golden. Montasio is traditional, but Parmesan, asiago or a young, not too salty pecorino will all work well, too, so use whatever you have. You can form frico into small individual crackers for neater serving, or you can make one large cracker the size of your pan and break it apart as you devour it. Frico on its own doesn't need much embellishment. All it truly requires is a chilled cocktail or a glass of Italian white wine served alongside. But this one incorporates zucchini. First, I browned thin rounds of zucchini in olive oil, then I topped them with the cheese and let them cook. It took only five minutes, plus another minute or so to let the cheese crisp up after I turned it out of the pan.
Provided by Melissa Clark
Categories quick, appetizer
Time 20m
Yield 4 to 6 hors d'oeuvres servings
Number Of Ingredients 5
Steps:
- Brush a large nonstick skillet with oil and heat over medium-high until hot. Arrange half the zucchini rounds in a single layer, allowing about an inch of space between them. Cook, without moving them, until undersides are dark golden, about 2 minutes. Carefully flip and cook until golden, about 2 minutes more.
- Sprinkle half the cheese evenly over zucchini and into the spaces between it. Cook, without moving, until cheese looks lacy and translucent, and no longer sticks to the pan, about 5 minutes. Tip the skillet and using a spatula, gently help slide the frico in one piece onto a large plate. Sprinkle with torn basil and finish with pepper. Repeat with remaining zucchini and cheese. Break into pieces to serve.
Nutrition Facts : @context http, Calories 86, UnsaturatedFat 2 grams, Carbohydrate 2 grams, Fat 6 grams, Fiber 0 grams, Protein 7 grams, SaturatedFat 3 grams, Sodium 262 milligrams, Sugar 1 gram
ZUCCHINI FRICO
Steps:
- 1.Brush a large nonstick skillet with oil and heat over medium-high until hot. Arrange half the zucchini rounds in a single layer, allowing about an inch of space between them. Cook, without moving them, until undersides are dark golden, about 2 minutes. Carefully flip and cook until golden, about 2 minutes more. 2.Sprinkle half the cheese evenly over zucchini and into the spaces between it. Cook, without moving, until cheese looks lacy and translucent, and no longer sticks to the pan, about 5 minutes. Tip the skillet and using a spatula, gently help slide the frico in one piece onto a large plate. Sprinkle with torn basil and finish with pepper. Repeat with remaining zucchini and cheese. Break into pieces to serve.
Tips:
- Choose the right zucchini. Look for firm, young zucchini with smooth, unblemished skin. Avoid zucchini that is too large or has blemishes, as these will not fry as well.
- Slice the zucchini thinly. This will help them cook evenly and quickly.
- Use a good quality cheese. Grated Parmesan or Asiago cheese will give the zucchini frico a nice, nutty flavor.
- Don't overcrowd the pan. Cook the zucchini frico in batches if necessary to prevent the pieces from sticking together.
- Cook the zucchini frico until it is golden brown and crispy. This will ensure that it is cooked through and has a nice texture.
- Serve the zucchini frico immediately. It is best enjoyed hot and crispy.
Conclusion:
Zucchini frico is a delicious and easy-to-make appetizer or side dish that is perfect for any occasion. It is a great way to use up fresh zucchini and can be customized to your liking by adding different herbs, spices, or cheeses. So next time you are looking for a new way to enjoy zucchini, give zucchini frico a try!
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