Crispy Baked Zucchini Fries
Introduction
These crispy baked zucchini fries are a perfect healthier alternative to traditional fries. They’re oven-baked, golden, and crunchy on the outside while staying tender on the inside. Serve them as a snack, appetizer, or delicious side dish with your favorite dipping sauce.
Ingredients
For the Zucchini Fries
- 2 medium zucchinis
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (or dried oregano/basil)
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup all-purpose flour (or cornstarch for a lighter coating)
Optional Dipping Sauce (Garlic Herb Mayo)
- ½ cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt)
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon chopped parsley or chives
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
1. Prepare the Zucchini
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
- Trim the ends off the zucchinis. Slice each into long fry-shaped sticks (about ½-inch thick).
2. Set Up the Breading Station
- In a shallow bowl, whisk the eggs.
- In another bowl, place the flour.
- In a third bowl, combine:
- panko breadcrumbs
- Parmesan
- garlic powder
- Italian seasoning
- paprika
- salt and pepper
3. Bread the Fries
- Dredge each zucchini stick in flour, shaking off excess.
- Dip into the beaten eggs.
- Press into the breadcrumb mixture, coating fully.
- Arrange the breaded sticks on the prepared baking sheet, spaced apart.
4. Bake
- Lightly spray the tops with cooking spray (for extra crispiness).
- Bake at 425°F (220°C) for 18–22 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Remove when golden and crispy.
5. Make the Dipping Sauce (Optional)
- Mix mayonnaise, garlic, lemon juice, herbs, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.
- Refrigerate until ready to serve.
6. Serve
Enjoy the zucchini fries hot with your favorite dip—ketchup, ranch, garlic mayo, or marinara all work great.