Prep Time 15 mins
Cook Time 20 mins
Rest Time 35 mins
Total Time 1 hr 10 mins
Cooking Method: Air Fryer, Baking
Cuisine: American, Italian
Courses: Appetizers, Snacks
Difficulty: Beginner
Servings: 4
Calories: 220
Best Season: Summer
Description

These Crispy Baked Zucchini Fries are a healthy, guilt-free alternative to traditional fries. Coated in a golden, crunchy parmesan-panko crust and baked to perfection, they make the perfect appetizer, snack, or side dish. Easy to make and packed with flavor, these zucchini fries will be a hit at any gathering!

Ingredients
    For the Zucchini Fries
  • 2 medium zucchini (cut into fry-shaped strips)
  • 1/2 tsp salt (to remove excess moisture)
  • For the Breading
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (for extra crispiness)
  • 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 tsp paprika
  • For the Coating
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs (beaten)
  • For Dipping (Optional)
  • 1/2 cup marinara sauce or garlic aioli
Instructions
    Prep the Zucchini
  1. 1
    Wash and dry the zucchinis. Cut them into even fry-shaped strips (about 3-4 inches long and 1/2-inch thick). Sprinkle the zucchini sticks with salt and let them sit for 10 minutes to draw out excess moisture. Pat dry with a paper towel.
  2. Prepare the Breading Station
  3. 2
    In a shallow bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and paprika. Place flour in a separate bowl. In a third bowl, beat the eggs.
  4. Coat the Zucchini Fries
  5. 3
    Dredge each zucchini strip in flour, shaking off excess. Dip into the beaten eggs, ensuring full coverage. Roll in the breadcrumb-parmesan mixture, pressing lightly for even coating.
  6. Bake the Zucchini Fries
  7. 4
    Preheat the oven to 220°C (425°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Arrange the coated zucchini fries in a single layer, ensuring they don’t touch. Bake for 20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
  8. Serve & Enjoy
  9. 5
    Remove from the oven and let cool for 2 minutes. Serve hot with marinara sauce or garlic aioli for dipping.
Note

Extra Crispy Tip: Lightly spray the coated zucchini fries with cooking spray before baking for an extra crispy texture.

Air Fryer Option: Cook at 200°C (400°F) for 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.

Storage & Reheating: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven at 200°C (400°F) for 5 minutes to regain crispiness.

Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free panko and flour.

Keto Option: Replace breadcrumbs with crushed pork rinds.

Keywords: healthy, baked, low-carb, crispy, easy
Read it online: https://petitepanini.com/recipe/crispy-baked-zucchini-fries/