Craving a light yet flavorful side dish? Copycat Carrabba’s Zucchini brings the perfect balance of tender zucchini and a burst of savory flavors, all in the comfort of your own kitchen! This simple, delicious recipe will have you savoring every bite—just like at your favorite restaurant.
If you’re a fan of Carrabba’s famous zucchini, you’re going to love this easy copycat recipe! This version brings the same tender, perfectly seasoned zucchini straight to your kitchen.
With just a few simple ingredients, you can recreate this flavorful side dish that’s perfect for pairing with any meal or enjoying on its own. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or craving a simple, yet delicious dish, this recipe will surely satisfy your taste buds.
Why You Will Love This Recipe!
- Quick and Easy to Make – Perfect for busy nights.
- Healthy Side Dish – Packed with fresh vegetables and flavor.
- Restaurant-Quality Taste – Get the same great flavor at home.
- Versatile for Any Meal – Pairs well with pasta, meat, or salad.
- Crispy, Tender Texture – Deliciously crispy on the outside, tender inside.
If you love If you love Copycat Recipes try my recipe for Wingstop Blue Cheese Recipe, Air Fryer Popeyes Chicken Sandwich (Copycat), Air Fryer Popeyes Fried Chicken Recipe, or Copycat Popeye’s Seafood Po’Boy Recipe.
Ingredients Needed
- Zucchini – Two large zucchinis, cut into small sticks.
- All Purpose Flour – The base for a crispy, golden breading.
- Salt – Adds essential seasoning to enhance the flavors.
- Pepper – Brings a mild heat to balance the flavors.
- Milk – Helps the breading adhere to the zucchini.
- Oil for Frying – Ensures a crispy, golden finish to each piece.
How To Make Copycat Carrabba’s Zucchini
Step One: Start by washing and trimming the ends off two large zucchinis. Cut them into small pieces, resembling sticks or rounds, depending on your preference.
Step Two: In a shallow bowl, combine all-purpose flour, salt, and pepper. In a separate bowl, add some milk to help the breading stick to the zucchini pieces. Dip the zucchini pieces into the milk, then roll them in the flour mixture, making sure each piece is evenly coated.
Step Three: Preheat your oven to 425°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it. Arrange the breaded zucchini pieces in a single layer on the baking sheet, ensuring they are not touching. Lightly spray or brush them with oil for extra crispiness. Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden brown and crispy.
Step Four: Once crispy, remove the zucchini from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Serve warm with your favorite dipping
Copycat Carrabba’s Zucchini Recipe Tips
- Cut Evenly: Slice the zucchini into uniform pieces to ensure even cooking.
- Don’t Skip the Milk: It helps the breading stick better, giving a crispier texture.
- Use Panko for Extra Crunch: Swap regular flour with panko breadcrumbs for a crunchier coating.
- Avoid Overcrowding: Whether baking or frying, give the zucchini space to crisp up properly.
- Serve Immediately: Enjoy while hot for the best texture and flavor.
- Season to Taste: Add garlic powder, Parmesan, or Italian seasoning for extra flavor.
Storing
- Storing: Keep leftover zucchini in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To prevent sogginess, place a paper towel in the container to absorb excess moisture.
- Freezing: It’s best to freeze before baking or frying—place the breaded zucchini on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Cook directly from frozen for the best texture.
- Reheating: Reheat in an air fryer or oven at 375°F for 5-8 minutes to restore crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the zucchini soft and soggy.
What To Serve With Copycat Carrabba’s Zucchini
Copycat Carrabba’s Zucchini pairs perfectly with a variety of delicious dishes, making it a versatile appetizer or side. Serve it alongside a creamy marinara or ranch dipping sauce for extra flavor.
It also complements Italian favorites like chicken parmesan, fettuccine alfredo, or a fresh Caprese salad. For a well-rounded meal, enjoy it with grilled meats such as steak or lemon herb chicken. Whether as a snack, side, or appetizer, this crispy zucchini is sure to be a crowd-pleaser!
Copycat Carrabba’s Zucchini Recipe Faqs
Can I make this zucchini recipe in the air fryer? Yes! To air fry, preheat your air fryer to 400°F, arrange the breaded zucchini in a single layer, and cook for about 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through until golden and crispy.
What dipping sauces go well with fried zucchini? This zucchini tastes amazing with marinara sauce, ranch dressing, garlic aioli, or a zesty lemon herb dip.
Can I use other vegetables instead of zucchini? Absolutely! Try this recipe with yellow squash, eggplant, or even green beans for a tasty variation.
How do I keep the zucchini crispy after baking or frying? For maximum crispiness, serve immediately. If needed, reheat in the oven or air fryer to restore its crunch.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free? Yes, just substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free alternative like almond flour, rice flour, or a gluten-free all-purpose blend.
More Copycat Recipes
- Publix Breakfast Bread Recipe
- Demos Chicken and Rice Soup Recipe
- Instant Pot Olive Garden Cream of Tomato and Basil Soup
- Instant Pot Chicken And Noodles With Cream Of Mushroom Soup
- Copycat Instant Pot Panera Bread Chicken Noodle Soup
- Instant Pot Wild Rice Soup
- Ninja Foodi Broccoli Cheddar Soup
- Copycat Outback Steakhouse Walkabout Soup
Don’t Forget To Pin!
Share Your Creations! Are you active on Facebook? Join our Air Fryer Recipes Group, where hundreds of thousands of Air Fryer enthusiasts gather and share your photos! I’m always thrilled to see what you’ve made. For those on Instagram, don’t forget to tag me @forktospoon – I can’t wait to admire your culinary adventures!
Copycat Carrabba’s Zucchini
Description
Ingredients
- 2 large zucchinis, cut into sticks or rounds
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon pepper
- 1 cup milk
Instructions
- Wash and trim the ends of the 2 large zucchinis. Cut them into small pieces, resembling sticks or rounds.
- In a shallow bowl, combine the 1 cup all-purpose flour, ½ teaspoon salt, and ½ teaspoon pepper. In a separate bowl, pour in the 1 cup milk.
- Dip the zucchini pieces into the milk, then roll them in the flour mixture, ensuring they’re evenly coated.
- Fry Option: Heat 1-2 inches of oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once hot (test with a small zucchini piece), add the breaded zucchini in batches. Fry for 2-3 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and crispy. OR
- Baking Option: Preheat the oven to 425°F. Arrange the breaded zucchini pieces on a baking sheet in a single layer, lightly spray or brush with oil. Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.
- Once cooked, remove from the skillet or oven and serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce, such as marinara or ranch.
Equipment
- Baking Sheet
- Parchment Paper
Nutrition
Share this recipe
We can’t wait to see what you’ve made! Mention @forktospoon or tag #forktospoon!
