Crispy Zucchini Fries with Parmesan (Printable)
Golden, crunchy zucchini fries coated in Parmesan and herbs. A healthy, irresistible snack or side dish baked to crispy perfection.
# What You Need:
→ Vegetables
01 - 2 medium zucchinis
→ Breading
02 - 2/3 cup all-purpose flour
03 - 2 large eggs
04 - 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
05 - 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
→ Seasonings
06 - 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
07 - 1/2 teaspoon dried Italian herbs
08 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
09 - 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
→ For Serving
10 - Marinara sauce or garlic aioli for dipping
# Steps:
01 - Preheat oven to 425°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or apply nonstick cooking spray.
02 - Wash and trim the zucchinis. Cut into fries approximately 1/2 inch thick and 3 inches long.
03 - Arrange three shallow bowls in sequence: Bowl 1 with flour, Bowl 2 with beaten eggs, Bowl 3 with mixed panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, Italian herbs, salt, and black pepper.
04 - Dredge each zucchini fry in flour, dip in beaten egg, then coat thoroughly in the panko-Parmesan mixture. Ensure even coverage on all sides.
05 - Place coated zucchini fries on the prepared baking sheet with adequate spacing between each piece.
06 - Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, flipping halfway through cooking, until golden brown and crisp.
07 - Remove from oven and serve immediately with marinara sauce or garlic aioli.
# Expert Hints:
01 -
- The contrast between the golden crunchy exterior and tender zucchini inside creates this addictive texture that keeps everyone reaching for just one more.
- These fries give you that satisfying deep-fried experience while being oven-baked, so you can actually taste the zucchini rather than just the oil.
02 -
- Salting the zucchini sticks and letting them sit for 15 minutes before breading draws out excess moisture, resulting in significantly crispier fries.
- Flipping the fries exactly halfway through baking ensures even browning and prevents the bottoms from becoming soggy where they contact the baking sheet.
03 -
- After breading the zucchini, let them rest for 5-10 minutes before baking to help the coating adhere better during the cooking process.
- Position the baking rack in the upper third of your oven where the heat concentration is perfect for creating that golden crust without overcooking the zucchini inside.