Crispy Zucchini Grilled Cheese with Dijon Horseradish Aioli
Yield: makes 2 sandwiches
Total Time: 35 minutes
Ingredients:
4 slices whole grain bread 1 small zucchini, sliced into 1/4-inch rounds 1 large egg + 1 large egg white 3/4 cup panko bread crumbs 1/3 cup seasoned fine bread crumbs 1/4 cup flour 1/4 cup finely grated parmesan cheese 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon pepper 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder 2 tablespoons olive oil 6 ounces freshly grated cheddar cheese softened butter for spreading
aioli 1 1/2 tablespoons dijon mustard 1 large egg yolk 2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice 1/2 cup olive oil 2 tablespoons whole grain mustard 1 1/2 tablespoons prepared horseradish a pinch of salt + pepper
Directions:
Prep the aioli first (recipe below).
In a bowl, whisk together the egg and egg white. In another bowl, whisk together the panko, breadcrumbs, flour, parmesan, salt, pepper and garlic powder. Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add olive oil. Dip each zucchini slice in the egg mixture to coat, then dredge through the breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere. Place in the skillet and cook until golden - about 2 minutes per side. When finished, remove the slices with kitchen tongs and let drain on a paper towel.
Spread one side of each bread slice with softened butter. Heat a skillet (I used the same one, just wiped out) over medium heat and place bread buttered-side down, then top with a spoonful of aioli, a handful of grated cheese, a few zucchini slices, more cheese, more aioli, and the second slice of bread, this time buttered-side up. Cook until cheese is melted and both sides are golden brown - at least 5 minutes per side. Lower the heat if the bread gets too brown. Serve immediately and dip any extra zucchini slices in the leftover aioli!
aioli Whisk together dijon mustard, egg yolk and lemon juice in a large bowl until combined. Slowly stream in olive oil while continuously whisking until the mixture emulsifies and comes together completely. Whisk in whole grain mustard and horseradish, then taste and season with a little salt and pepper as desired. Set aside.
[aioli slightly adapted martha]
