Description
These Baked Zucchini Fries are crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and coated in a flavorful Parmesan herb crust. Served with a creamy homemade garlic aioli, they’re a healthy and delicious appetizer, snack, or side dish perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
For the Zucchini Fries
- 2 medium zucchini, cut into fry-shaped strips
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- Cooking spray or 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Garlic Aioli
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly grease it to prevent the zucchini fries from sticking.
- Prepare the breadcrumb mixture: In a shallow bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly to create a flavorful coating for the fries.
- Coat the zucchini strips: Dip each zucchini strip into the beaten eggs, allowing excess egg to drip off. Then, evenly coat each strip with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing lightly so the coating sticks well.
- Arrange on baking sheet: Place the coated zucchini fries in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, making sure they are not touching to ensure even crisping.
- Add oil or cooking spray: Lightly spray the fries with cooking spray or drizzle them with olive oil to help them crisp up nicely in the oven.
- Bake the fries: Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, flipping the fries halfway through the cooking time. Bake until golden brown and crispy on the outside while tender inside.
- Prepare the garlic aioli: While the fries are baking, whisk together the mayonnaise, minced garlic, fresh lemon juice, Dijon mustard, chopped parsley, and a pinch of salt and black pepper until smooth and creamy.
- Serve: Remove the zucchini fries from the oven and serve immediately alongside the garlic aioli for dipping.
Notes
- For extra crispiness, place the fries on a wire rack set over the baking sheet to allow air circulation.
- You can air fry the zucchini fries at 400°F (200°C) for 10–12 minutes as a quicker alternative.
- Best enjoyed fresh from the oven for maximum crispness and flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
