Zucchini Fries with Marinara Sauce

I guarantee even picky eaters will love these! Serve them as an appetizer or as a side dish. They are healthy and delicious! My daughter loves, loves, loves these. It’s her favorite way to eat zucchini and her only complaint is that I don’t make enough.
Ingredients:

• 3 medium (7 oz each) zucchinis sliced into 3″ x 1/2″ sticks
• 1 large egg white
• 1/3 cup seasoned whole wheat bread crumbs
• 2 tbsp grated Pecorino Romano cheese
• cooking spray
• 1/4 tsp garlic powder
• salt
• fresh pepper
• 1/2 cups quick marinara sauce for dipping

Directions
In a small bowl, beat egg whites and season with salt and pepper. In a ziplock bag, place breadcrumbs, garlic powder and cheese and shake well. Spray cookie sheet with cooking spray and set aside.
Dip zucchini sticks into eggs then into bread crumb and cheese mixture, a few at a time and shake to coat. Place the breaded zucchini in a single layer and spray more cooking spray on top. Bake at 425° for about 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown. Serve with 1/2 cup marinara sauce for dipping.

Marinara Sauce 

Ingredients:

• 1 tsp olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, smashed
• 28 oz can crushed tomatoes
• 1 small bay leaf
• 1 tsp oregano
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh basil
• salt and fresh pepper to taste

Directions:
In a medium pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and saute until golden, being careful not to burn.
Add crushed tomatoes, salt, pepper, oregano, and bay leaf. Stir and reduce heat to low. Cover and let simmer about 15 – 20 minutes. Remove from heat and add fresh basil.