Here we are posting another zucchini recipe this week, acting as though we have a garden and an abundance of zucchini that we are desperately trying to use up. This is not the case. No such garden exists. Between all the bugs, dirt, allergies, and bugs, I can safely say that gardening is not my thing. My reason for posting zucchini again - these thick slices of zucchini are coated and baked in a mixture of panko, za’atar, and sesame seeds, and served with a lemon-sesame dipping sauce - comes from a very non-altruistic place.
I have such a huge favor to ask of you. If you like this recipe, I would love for you to to vote for it!
Smart Balance is running a Battle of the Bloggers competition. The blogger whose recipe receives the most votes at the end of the contest will win a yearlong contract with Smart Balance to develop recipes!
To vote for the entry (it's super quick):
• CLICK HERE to head to the Battle of the Bloggers Facebook app! Then vote!
You will even have a chance to win prizes, including gift cards to give your kitchen a makeover and a year's supply of Smart Balance products!
IngredientsFor the bites:2 medium zucchini, cut into slices (about 1/4-inch to 1/2-inch thick)1 cup buttermilk2 cups panko1 teaspoon kosher salt1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper1 tablespoon za'atar2 tablespoons roasted sesame seedsground sumac, for sprinklingpaprika, for sprinklingSmart Balance Cooking Spray
For the dip:1/4 cup Smart Balance Omega Plus Mayonnaise1/4 cup Greek yogurt1 tablespoon tahini1 teaspoon sesame oil1/2 teaspoon lemon zest1 tablespoon lemon juice1/2 teaspoon honeypinch ground sumac1/2 teaspoon za'atarkosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste1 tablespoon roasted sesame seeds, plus more for serving
InstructionsTo make the zucchini bites:Heat oven to 400. Place buttermilk in a shallow bowl. Mix together panko, salt, pepper, za'atar, and sesame seeds. Place in a second shallow bowl. Dip each zucchini slice first in buttermilk and then in the panko mixture. Repeat for each slice. Place on lined baking sheet. Sprinkle each bite with just a pinch of sumac and paprika. Spray the zucchini bites with cooking spray. Bake for about 15-20 minutes until golden brown.
To make the dipping sauce:Stir all ingredients together. Adjust salt and pepper to taste. Sprinkle sesame seeds on top before serving.
