Healthy Crispy Mozzarella Sticks

Ingredients:

• 10 whole grain Melba toasts
• 1/3 cup whole grain breadcrumbs
• 1 tbsp chopped oregano
• A large pinch of ground cayenne pepper (optional)
• Whites of 2 large eggs
• 1 large egg
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1/3 cup whole wheat flour for baking or all-purpose flour
• 8 sticks semi-skimmed mozzarella, cut in half crosswise
• Olive oil (spray) to drizzle over the cheese
• 1/3 cup store-bought marinara sauce, heated, for serving

Preparation:

1. Pulse the Melba toast in a food processor until it forms medium-sized crumbs. Transfer to a medium bowl or plate. Stir in the breadcrumbs, oregano, 1/4 teaspoon each of salt and black pepper, and cayenne pepper, if using.
2. In another bowl, whisk together the egg whites, whole egg, garlic, and 1/4 teaspoon each of salt and black pepper.
3. Place flour and 1/4 teaspoon salt in a zip-lock plastic bag. Add the cheese pieces to the bag, seal, and shake to coat the cheese with flour. Dip one piece of cheese at a time into the egg mixture, then, pressing firmly, roll it into the breadcrumb mixture. Dip the same piece again into the egg mixture, then into the breadcrumb mixture. (Note: Use one hand for the dry mixture and the other for the wet mixture.) Place the cheese on a parchment-lined plate or baking sheet. Freeze for 15 minutes or overnight.
4. Preheat oven to 450°F (245°C). Transfer the frozen cheese sticks to another baking sheet. Spray the cheese sticks completely with olive oil spray. Bake until golden brown, about 12 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
   
   Serve immediately with warm marinara sauce.