Mozzarella Sticks with Marinara

Kids love mozzarella sticks! This is a bit of a healthier version. Serve with some carrot sticks, too — like a little cocktail party.

Serves 8

Ingredients

Pan-fried cheese:

1¹⁄₂ cups seasoned breadcrumbs

2 tablespoons Parmesan cheese

2 eggs

8 sticks of part-skim mozzarella cheese, about 1 inch in width, and 3 inches in length

2 to 3 tablespoons olive oil (for frying)

Marinara sauce:

Nonstick cooking spray

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 large garlic clove, minced

1 tablespoon parsley, minced

¹⁄₂ teaspoon basil

¹⁄₂ teaspoon oregano

1 (16-ounce) can crushed tomatoes, drained

1 (8-ounce) can tomato sauce

1. On a plate, mix breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese together.

2. Crack the eggs into a small bowl, and beat well.

3. Dip each stick of cheese into beaten eggs and then into the breadcrumb mixture.

4. Place breaded cheese in a single layer on a plate and cover with plastic wrap. Place in refrigerator at least 30 minutes, so crumbs can adhere to the cheese.

5. In large skillet, on low heat, heat olive oil and fry cheese until brown on one side.

6. Turn the cheese sticks and brown on other side. Remove from pan and drain on a paper towel.

7. Prepare marinara sauce in same large skillet. Spray skillet with nonstick cooking spray, and on low heat, sauté garlic.

8. Add remaining ingredients of sauce to skillet, and mix well.

9. Cook on medium heat for about 15 minutes or until thickened, stirring occasionally.

10. Simmer an additional 45 minutes.

11. Serve cheese sticks with warm sauce.