Introduction:
Why You’ll Love These Crispy Zucchini Fries Looking for a healthier alternative to traditional French fries? These crispy zucchini fries are just what you need! Made with fresh zucchini, coated in breadcrumbs and parmesan, and baked or air-fried to golden perfection — this snack is crunchy on the outside and tender on the inside. Perfect as an appetizer, side dish, or even a light snack.
Ingredients:
- 2 medium zucchinis
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon milk
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- ¼ cup grated parmesan cheese
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Cooking spray or olive oil (for baking/air frying)
Equipment Required:
- Cutting board & knife
- 3 shallow bowls (for coating)
- Baking sheet or air fryer
- Parchment paper (for oven)
- Tongs or fork for dipping
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Zucchini
- Wash and dry the zucchinis.
- Cut each zucchini in half, then slice lengthwise into fry-shaped strips (about 3-4 inches long and ½-inch thick).
Tip: Try to keep all fries roughly the same size for even cooking.
Step 2: Set Up Your Dipping Stations
Prepare 3 bowls for coating:
- Bowl 1 (Flour Mix): Add all-purpose flour.
- Bowl 2 (Egg Wash): Beat eggs with 1 tablespoon of milk.
- Bowl 3 (Breadcrumb Coating): Mix panko breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
Step 3: Coat the Zucchini Fries
- Dip each zucchini strip into the flour, then egg wash, and finally into the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure even coating.
- Place the coated fries on a parchment-lined baking sheet or air fryer tray.
Step 4: Bake or Air Fry
Option 1: Baking Method
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Spray zucchini fries lightly with cooking spray or drizzle a little olive oil.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
Option 2: Air Fryer Method
- Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
- Air fry in batches for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway for even crispiness.
Step 5: Serve Hot
Once golden and crispy, remove your fries and serve immediately with your favorite dips like:
- Ranch dressing
- Garlic aioli
- Marinara sauce
- Spicy mayo
Recipe Tips for Perfect Zucchini Fries:
- Don’t skip the flour — it helps the egg wash stick better.
- Use panko breadcrumbs for maximum crunch.
- Don’t overcrowd the tray or air fryer — give the fries space to crisp.
- Want a spicier version? Add chili flakes or cayenne pepper to the breadcrumb mix.
Nutrition Information:
(Per Serving – Approximate)
- Calories: 150
- Protein: 6g
- Carbs: 18g
- Fat: 6g
- Fiber: 2g
(Values may vary based on portion size and method used)
Variations You Can Try:
- Gluten-Free: Use almond flour and gluten-free breadcrumbs.
- Vegan Option: Replace eggs with a plant-based milk and flour slurry, skip parmesan or use vegan cheese.
- Low-Carb/Keto: Use crushed pork rinds or almond flour instead of breadcrumbs.
Frequently Asked Questions:(FAQs)
Q. Can I make zucchini fries ahead of time?
Yes! You can coat them ahead and refrigerate. Bake or air fry fresh when ready to serve.
Q. How do I store leftover zucchini fries?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in air fryer or oven for best crispiness.
Q. Can I freeze zucchini fries?
Yes. Freeze coated (uncooked) fries in a single layer on a tray, then transfer to a bag. Bake or air fry directly from frozen.
—Final ThoughtsThese crispy zucchini fries are a crowd-pleaser — crunchy, healthy, and bursting with flavor. Whether baked or air-fried, they’re a guilt-free way to enjoy fries with a nutritious twist. Try them out and let us know how they turn out!