Introduction
If you’re looking for a delicious and healthy snack or side dish, look no further than these Crispy Air Fryer Parmesan Zucchini Fries! This recipe transforms humble zucchini into a crunchy, flavorful treat that’s sure to satisfy your cravings without the guilt. The air fryer brings out the natural sweetness of the zucchini while adding a delightful crispness, and the combination of parmesan cheese and Italian herbs elevates the dish to a whole new level.
Perfect for indulging during movie nights, serving at parties, or enjoying as a nutritious addition to your meals, these zucchini fries are incredibly easy to make and require minimal ingredients. With a quick prep time and the magic of the air fryer, you can enjoy a batch of these golden-brown delights in no time. Plus, they’re a fantastic way to sneak more veggies into your diet without sacrificing flavor!
So grab your zucchini, sprinkle on some cheese, and let’s get frying! Whether you dip them in marinara, ranch, or eat them plain, these Crispy Air Fryer Parmesan Zucchini Fries are sure to become a new favorite in your home.
Ingredients
- 2 medium zucchinis
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp paprika
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- Cooking spray
Instructions
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- Begin by prepping your zucchinis. Wash them thoroughly and cut each zucchini into thin fry-like sticks, about ¼ to ½ inch thick.
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- In a shallow bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to create an evenly seasoned coating.
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- Set up a dredging station: Place the flour in one shallow bowl, beat the eggs in a second bowl, and pour the breadcrumb mixture into a third bowl.
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- Take each zucchini stick and first dip it into the flour, ensuring it is fully coated. Shake off any excess flour.
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- Next, dip the floured zucchini into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess to drip off.
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- Finally, roll the zucchini in the breadcrumb mixture until fully coated. Repeat this process with all the zucchini sticks.
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- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes.
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- Once preheated, lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Place the zucchini fries in a single layer in the basket, making sure they don’t overlap.
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- Spray the tops of the zucchini fries lightly with cooking spray for extra crispiness.
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- Cook the fries in the air fryer at 400°F for 12 minutes, flipping them halfway through for even browning until golden and crispy.
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- Once done, carefully remove the zucchini fries from the air fryer and let them cool slightly before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 min | Total Time: 30 min | Servings: 4
Key Ingredients
- 2 medium zucchinis, cut into fry-shaped sticks
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably whole wheat or panko for extra crunch)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (or your favorite dried herb blend)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 large eggs, beaten (for egg wash)
- Cooking spray or olive oil for coating
Baking Process
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Preparation of Zucchini: Start by preheating your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). While it heats up, wash and dry the zucchini. Trim off the ends, then slice them into fries or sticks, aiming for uniform thickness to ensure even cooking.
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Dredging Station Setup: In one bowl, place 1 cup of all-purpose flour. In a second bowl, beat 2 large eggs. In a third bowl, combine 1 cup of panko breadcrumbs, ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, ½ teaspoon of salt, and ¼ teaspoon of pepper, mixing the ingredients well.
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Coating the Zucchini Fries:
- Start by coating each zucchini stick in the flour, shaking off any excess.
- Next, dip the floured zucchini into the beaten eggs, ensuring it is fully covered.
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Finally, roll the zucchini in the panko-Parmesan mixture, pressing gently to help the coating adhere. Place the coated fries on a plate or tray as you go.
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Air Frying: Once your air fryer is preheated, spray the basket lightly with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Arrange the coated zucchini fries in a single layer in the basket, making sure they aren’t overcrowded. If necessary, cook them in batches.
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Cooking: Cook the zucchini fries in the air fryer for about 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through cooking. This ensures they crisp up evenly. Keep an eye on them as cooking times can vary slightly based on your air fryer model.
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Finishing Touches: Once they are golden brown and crispy, remove the fries from the air fryer and place them on a cooling rack for a minute. This helps maintain their crispiness.
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Serving: Serve the crispy air fryer Parmesan zucchini fries immediately with your favorite dipping sauce, such as marinara, ranch, or a zesty garlic aioli. Enjoy your delicious and healthy snack!
Serving Suggestions
These Crispy Air Fryer Parmesan Zucchini Fries are not only delicious but versatile, making them perfect for a variety of occasions. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience:
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Dipping Sauces: Serve with a variety of dipping sauces to elevate the flavors. Try marinara sauce, garlic aioli, or a tangy ranch dressing. Homemade tzatziki or a spicy sriracha mayo can add an extra kick.
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As an Appetizer: These zucchini fries make a fantastic appetizer for gatherings or parties. Arrange them on a platter with dipping sauces for guests to enjoy while mingling.
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Side Dish: Pair your zucchini fries with a savory main course. They complement grilled chicken, fish tacos, or a juicy burger beautifully. Consider adding a side salad for a well-rounded meal.
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Garnishes: Top the fries with fresh herbs like basil or parsley for a pop of color and flavor. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes can also add some heat and excitement.
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Toppings: Get creative by adding toppings! A drizzle of balsamic glaze or a sprinkle of feta cheese can provide an unexpected flavor twist that’s sure to impress.
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Zucchini Fries Platter: Create a snack platter by including other air-fried vegetables like sweet potato fries or cauliflower bites. This way, you’ll have a variety of textures and flavors to enjoy.
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Movie Night Snack: Make these zucchini fries a part of your movie night snacks. They’re a healthier alternative to traditional fries and perfect for munching while watching your favorite flick.
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On a Taco: Use them as a crispy topping on fish or veggie tacos for a delightful crunch.
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Breakfast Option: For a unique breakfast, serve with scrambled eggs and a side of avocado for a deliciously wholesome start to your day.
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In a Wrap: Add the fries to a wrap with grilled chicken, fresh greens, and a drizzle of sauce for a flavorful lunch option.
Feel free to blend and match these suggestions to create your own perfect plate of Crispy Air Fryer Parmesan Zucchini Fries! Enjoy!
Conclusion
Crispy Air Fryer Parmesan Zucchini Fries offer a delightful and healthier alternative to traditional french fries, perfect for satisfying those crunchy cravings. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, you can whip up a batch that is not only guilt-free but also packed with flavor. This recipe is versatile—enjoy these zucchini fries as a snack, a side dish, or a fun appetizer for gatherings. The air fryer ensures they come out perfectly crispy without the need for excess oil, making them a perfect choice for anyone looking to indulge without compromising on health. Give this recipe a try, and you may just find yourself reaching for zucchini more often! Happy cooking!
