Healthy Mozzarella Sticks with String Cheese
Healthy Mozzarella Sticks with String Cheese
Are you craving a delicious snack that doesn’t compromise on your health goals? These Healthy Mozzarella Sticks with String Cheese are your answer! Crispy on the outside and gooey on the inside, they make for an excellent appetizer or an after-school snack that kids will adore. Made with light ingredients and less oil than traditional fried mozzarella sticks, this recipe is guilt-free and full of flavor.
Why Make This Recipe
You’ll want to try these healthier mozzarella sticks for several reasons. Firstly, they are easy to prepare and use simple ingredients that you likely already have at home. Secondly, they strike the perfect balance between crispy and melty, making them a satisfying treat. Finally, with the added nutrition from the parsley and the ability to control the oil used for frying, you can enjoy your favorite snack without the extra calories.
How to Make Healthy Mozzarella Sticks with String Cheese
Follow this step-by-step guide to create your own healthy mozzarella sticks:
Ingredients
- 16 pieces of string cheese (halved crosswise)
- 1/3 cup plain flour
- 1 1/2 cups Italian breadcrumbs
- Salt and pepper as desired
- 2 eggs
- 2 teaspoons milk
- Oil for frying
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 cup marinara sauce for dipping
Directions
- Prepare the Cheese: Cut the string cheese in half crosswise, creating 32 pieces.
- Set Up Breading Station: Choose three bowls. In the first bowl, place the plain flour with a pinch of salt and pepper. In the second bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk. In the third bowl, place the Italian breadcrumbs combined with the chopped parsley.
- Bread the Cheese: Start by coating each piece of cheese in the flour, shaking off the excess. Next, dip it into the egg mixture and finally coat it in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing it gently to adhere.
- Heat the Oil: In a large skillet, heat the oil over medium heat. You want enough oil to cover the bottom of the pan.
- Fry the Sticks: Once the oil is hot, carefully place the breaded cheese sticks in the skillet. Fry until golden brown, typically about 1-2 minutes per side. Remove and set aside on paper towels to drain any excess oil.
- Serve with Marinara: Serve the healthy mozzarella sticks warm with marinara sauce for dipping.
How to Serve Healthy Mozzarella Sticks with String Cheese
These mozzarella sticks are perfect for parties, game day snacks, or as a fun family meal. Serve them on a platter with a small bowl of warm marinara sauce for dipping. Garnish with extra parsley for presentation and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, if desired.
How to Store Healthy Mozzarella Sticks with String Cheese
To store any leftover mozzarella sticks, place them in an airtight container and keep them in the refrigerator. They should last for about 3 days. For longer storage, consider freezing them. Lay the fried sticks on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. They can be reheated in an oven or air fryer.
Tips to Make Healthy Mozzarella Sticks with String Cheese
- Cheese Pairing: While string cheese is a great option, feel free to experiment with other types of cheese like reduced-fat mozzarella.
- Baking Option: If you prefer not to fry, you can bake the mozzarella sticks instead. Place the breaded sticks on a baking sheet, spray lightly with cooking spray, and bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 10-12 minutes.
- Make Ahead: Prepare the mozzarella sticks ahead of time and refrigerate them before frying. This gives the coating time to adhere nicely.
Variations
- Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture for a spicy version.
- Herbaceous Flavor: Mix in other herbs like oregano or basil for a Mediterranean twist.
- Dipping Sauce: Think beyond marinara! Consider ranch dressing, garlic aioli, or spicy mustard.
FAQs
1. Can I make these mozzarella sticks gluten-free?
Yes! Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour to adapt this recipe for a gluten-free diet.
2. Can I bake these mozzarella sticks instead of frying them?
Absolutely! Baking is a healthier option. Just spray them with cooking oil and bake at 400°F for about 10-12 minutes until golden brown.
3. How can I keep my cheese sticks from leaking out during frying?
Make sure to freeze the breaded mozzarella sticks for about 15 minutes before frying. This will help maintain the cheese’s structure while cooking.
Enjoy making and sharing these delicious Healthy Mozzarella Sticks with String Cheese, and savor every bite!
Healthy Mozzarella Sticks with String Cheese
Ingredients
For the Mozzarella Sticks
- 16 pieces String cheese (halved crosswise)
- 1/3 cup Plain flour With a pinch of salt and pepper
- 1 1/2 cups Italian breadcrumbs Combined with chopped parsley
- 2 large Eggs Whisked
- 2 teaspoons Milk For egg mixture
- as desired Salt and pepper To taste
- as needed Oil For frying
- 2 tablespoons Fresh parsley, chopped For coating
- 1 cup Marinara sauce For dipping
Instructions
Preparation
- Cut the string cheese in half crosswise, creating 32 pieces.
- Set up a breading station with three bowls: one for flour, one for the egg mixture, and one for the breadcrumb mixture.
Breading
- Coat each piece of cheese in the flour, shaking off the excess.
- Dip it into the egg mixture.
- Finally, coat it in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
Cooking
- Heat enough oil in a large skillet over medium heat to cover the bottom.
- Once the oil is hot, carefully place the breaded cheese sticks in the skillet.
- Fry until golden brown, about 1-2 minutes per side.
- Remove and set aside on paper towels to drain excess oil.
Serving
- Serve the healthy mozzarella sticks warm with marinara sauce for dipping.
