Cookbook Club

Cookbook Club is a medium American recipe that serves 2. 620 calories per serving. Recipe by Ann Arbor District Library on YouTube.

Prep: 30 min | Cook: 28 min | Total: 1 hr 13 min

Cost: $121.32 total, $60.66 per serving

Ingredients

  • 2 large Zucchini (cut into ½‑inch thick slices, trimmed to roll length)
  • 3 slices Fontina Cheese (thinly sliced)
  • 1 lb Onion (peeled and chopped)
  • 2 egg whites Egg Whites (separated from yolks)
  • 3 Tbsp Corn Starch (for batter)
  • 1 cup Bread Crumbs (plain or Italian seasoned)
  • 2 cups Frying Oil (high‑smoke‑point oil such as canola or vegetable)
  • 2 rolls Sub Rolls (Hala) (soft sandwich rolls)
  • 2 Tbsp Pickled Jalapeño Slices (store‑bought)
  • 1 cup Barbecue Potato Chips (crushed for topping)
  • 1 tsp Salt (for onion cooking and seasoning fried zucchini)
  • 0.25 tsp Black Pepper (optional)

Instructions

  1. Make Onion Puree

    Chop the onion into small chunks, add to a skillet with 1 tsp salt, and sauté over medium heat for about 15 minutes until the pieces are soft and translucent but not browned.

    Time: PT15M

    Temperature: medium

  2. Blend Onion Puree

    Using an immersion blender (or food processor), blend the softened onions until smooth and slightly thick but spreadable. Set aside.

    Time: PT3M

  3. Slice Zucchini

    Trim the zucchini ends and cut into ½‑inch thick slices, adjusting length to fit the sub rolls.

    Time: PT5M

  4. Prepare Batter

    Separate the yolks from 2 eggs, discard or reserve yolks, and whisk the egg whites in a bowl. Stir in 3 Tbsp corn starch until smooth.

    Time: PT3M

  5. Bread Zucchini

    Set up two shallow bowls—one with the egg‑white mixture, the other with bread crumbs. Dip each zucchini slice first in the egg mixture, let excess drip off, then coat generously with breadcrumbs. Place coated slices on a baking sheet and let rest for 5 minutes to set the coating.

    Time: PT5M

  6. Fry Zucchini

    Heat 1‑2 inches of oil in the skillet to about 350°F (medium‑high). Fry the breaded zucchini in batches, 2‑3 minutes per side, until golden brown. Remove with tongs, drain on paper towels, and sprinkle with salt.

    Time: PT10M

    Temperature: 350°F

  7. Toast Rolls

    Slice the sub rolls lengthwise. If desired, place them cut‑side up under the broiler for about 1 minute to lightly toast.

    Time: PT2M

    Temperature: broiler

  8. Spread Onion Puree

    Generously spread the onion puree on the bottom half of each roll.

    Time: PT2M

  9. Layer Zucchini and Cheese

    Arrange the fried zucchini slices on top of the puree, then layer 3‑4 slices of Fontina cheese over the zucchini.

    Time: PT2M

  10. Melt Cheese

    Place the assembled sandwiches under the broiler until the Fontina melts, about 30‑60 seconds.

    Time: PT1M

    Temperature: broiler

  11. Add Toppings and Serve

    Top the cheesy side with pickled jalapeño slices and a handful of crushed barbecue potato chips. Serve immediately while hot and crunchy.

    Time: PT2M

Nutrition Facts

Calories
620
Protein
22 g
Carbohydrates
58 g
Fat
32 g
Fiber
6 g

Dietary info: Vegetarian, Contains Gluten, Contains Dairy, Contains Eggs

Allergens: Eggs, Dairy, Gluten, Soy

Last updated: April 6, 2026

Amazon Associates

Amazon Associates PartnerTrusted

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases made through links on this page. This helps support our site at no extra cost to you. Clicking on ingredient or equipment links will take you to amazon.com where you can purchase these items.

Cookbook Club

Recipe by Ann Arbor District Library

A crispy fried zucchini sandwich with creamy Fontina, tangy onion puree, pickled jalapeños, and crunchy barbecue chips, inspired by Tyler Cord's Super Upsetting Cookbook about Sandwiches.

MediumAmericanServes 2

Shop all ingredients on Amazon in one click • Printable PDF with shopping checklist

Source Video
25m
Prep
25m
Cook
10m
Cleanup
1h
Total

Cost Breakdown

$121.32
Total cost
$60.66
Per serving

Critical Success Points

  • Achieving the right onion puree consistency (smooth but spreadable)
  • Ensuring the zucchini coating adheres before frying
  • Maintaining oil temperature around 350°F to avoid soggy coating
  • Broiling just long enough to melt cheese without burning

Safety Warnings

  • Hot oil can cause severe burns; use tongs or a spider strainer and keep a lid nearby.
  • Do not leave the broiler unattended; cheese can burn quickly.
  • Handle sharp knives with care when slicing zucchini and rolls.

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about this recipe

Q

What is the cultural significance and history of the Zucchini Parmesan Sandwich in American sandwich cuisine?

A

While not a traditional regional staple, the zucchini parmesan sandwich reflects the modern American trend of elevating vegetables into hearty, comfort‑food sandwiches, a concept popularized by innovative chefs like Tyler Cord in New York City’s vibrant food scene.

cultural
Q

How does the Zucchini Parmesan Sandwich fit into the broader American sandwich tradition?

A

It follows the classic American sandwich formula—bread, protein‑like element (fried zucchini), cheese, and a flavorful spread—while swapping meat for a vegetable, showcasing the growing popularity of vegetarian comfort sandwiches in the U.S.

cultural
Q

What traditional regional variations of vegetable‑based sandwiches exist in American cuisine?

A

Regional variations include the Southern fried green tomato BLT, the California avocado‑toast style, and the New England clam roll; each uses a local vegetable as the star, similar to the zucchini focus in this sandwich.

cultural
Q

What occasions or celebrations is the Zucchini Parmesan Sandwich traditionally associated with in American culture?

A

It isn’t tied to a specific holiday, but it’s a popular choice for casual brunches, weekend picnics, and food‑lover gatherings where inventive, shareable sandwiches are celebrated.

cultural
Q

What are the authentic traditional ingredients for the Zucchini Parmesan Sandwich versus acceptable substitutes?

A

Authentic ingredients include fresh zucchini, Fontina cheese, onion puree, and a soft sub roll. Acceptable substitutes are yellow squash for zucchini, mozzarella or provolone for Fontina, and hoagie rolls instead of Hala rolls.

cultural
Q

What other American dishes pair well with the Zucchini Parmesan Sandwich?

A

Pairs nicely with a crisp mixed green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette, a side of sweet potato fries, or a cold glass of craft iced tea to balance the richness of the fried zucchini and cheese.

cultural
Q

What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making the Zucchini Parmesan Sandwich at home?

A

Common errors include over‑cooking the onions so they caramelize, using oil that isn’t hot enough which leads to soggy coating, and broiling the cheese for too long, causing it to burn rather than melt.

technical
Q

Why does this Zucchini Parmesan Sandwich recipe use an onion puree instead of mayonnaise?

A

The onion puree provides a silky, umami‑rich spread that adds moisture without the heaviness of mayo, aligning with Tyler Cord’s technique of using vegetable purees as flavorful, lighter alternatives to traditional condiments.

technical
Q

Can I make the Zucchini Parmesan Sandwich ahead of time and how should I store it?

A

Yes, you can prepare the onion puree and bread the zucchini up to 4 hours ahead, storing them refrigerated. Fry the zucchini just before assembling, then keep the assembled sandwich wrapped and refrigerated for up to 24 hours, though the chips are best added fresh for crunch.

technical
Q

What does the YouTube channel Ann Arbor District Library specialize in?

A

The YouTube channel Ann Arbor District Library creates community‑focused content, including cooking demonstrations, book talks, and educational programs that highlight local resources and encourage lifelong learning.

channel
Q

How does the YouTube channel Ann Arbor District Library's approach to cooking videos differ from other cooking channels?

A

Ann Arbor District Library’s cooking videos emphasize accessibility, using everyday grocery items and clear step‑by‑step explanations, whereas many other cooking channels may focus on high‑end techniques or exotic ingredients.

channel

You Might Also Like

Similar recipes converted from YouTube cooking videos

Now serving, The Pink Pony Club
206

Now serving, The Pink Pony Club

A modern twist on the classic Clover Club, the Pink Pony Club cocktail swaps raspberries for fresh strawberries and adds a splash of sweet‑bitter Kari vermouth. Made with a silky egg‑white foam, bright lemon juice, and a homemade strawberry‑sugar syrup, this drink is served in a petite pony glass for a pretty pink presentation.

24 hrs 35 minServes 2$16
American
Cookbook Preview: Soup Club Vegetarian Plant-Based Soup Recipes by Caroline Wright (2022)
6

Cookbook Preview: Soup Club Vegetarian Plant-Based Soup Recipes by Caroline Wright (2022)

A hearty, plant‑based Italian ribollita soup inspired by the cookbook preview from Cookbook Divas. Serve the soup hot, drizzled with extra‑virgin olive oil, sprinkled with grated Parmesan and pepper flakes, and accompanied by crusty bread for a comforting meal that yields about eight bowls (≈3 quarts).

50 minServes 8$7
Italian
'Cookbook clubs' bring together cooking and community
5

'Cookbook clubs' bring together cooking and community

A rich, moist chocolate cake infused with espresso and toasted hazelnuts, baked into fifteen thin layers and stacked with a silky espresso‑hazelnut buttercream. Perfect for a cookbook‑club potluck or any celebration that calls for a show‑stopping dessert.

2 hrsServes 12$53
American
HOW TO START A COOKBOOK CLUB!
4

HOW TO START A COOKBOOK CLUB!

A step‑by‑step guide for hosting a monthly cookbook club potluck in Chicago, covering invitations, dish assignments, menu creation, space setup, event flow, and cleanup. Includes practical tips, safety notes, and FAQs specific to the YouTube channel Caira Button.

4 hrs 45 minServes 15$41
International
Warming Things Up 🔥 February 2026 Cookbook Club Pick!
6

Warming Things Up 🔥 February 2026 Cookbook Club Pick!

A warm, comforting roasted red pepper soup inspired by the "400 Soups" cookbook discussed on the AmyLearnsToCook channel. Perfect for chilly winter days, this soup is simple, vegetarian, and full of sweet roasted pepper flavor.

55 minServes 4$7
American
HOW TO MAKE THE VIRAL SAM'S CLUB IMITATION CRAB & ONION BOIL!
22

HOW TO MAKE THE VIRAL SAM'S CLUB IMITATION CRAB & ONION BOIL!

A viral-inspired seafood boil featuring Sam's Club imitation crab, buttery baked onions, corn, and eggs all drenched in a zesty Old Bay‑Cajun butter sauce. Easy to make, perfect for a casual dinner or game‑day spread.

1 hr 45 minServes 4$16
American