Air Fryer Zucchini Fries
Alright, you’ve got zucchini staring at you from the fridge, and you’re wondering how to make it into something crispy, golden, and downright addictive—fast. Well, buckle up, because these air fryer zucchini fries are about to become your new favorite snack or sidekick for dinnertime. I mean, who doesn’t love fries, but with a fresh twist that’s light, flavorful, and just the right amount of crunch? Plus, the air fryer makes them perfectly crispy without all the grease. I can’t wait to show you my foolproof way to get that crunch every time, along with a little secret hack so they don’t get soggy. Ready to transform zucchini into fries you’ll actually crave? Let’s do this!
Quick Facts
- Yield: Serves 4
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 27 minutes
Ingredients
For the Main Dish:
- 2 medium zucchinis (about 14 ounces), cut into fry-sized sticks
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Cooking spray or olive oil spray
How I Make It
Step 1:
Start by slicing your zucchinis into sticks about 3 inches long and ½ inch thick—kind of like potato fries but greener and way fresher. Then, lay them out on paper towels and sprinkle some salt to draw out excess moisture. Let them sit for 10 minutes—this is key to keep your fries from turning soggy!
Step 2:
While the zucchini is sweating, whisk together the 2 eggs in a shallow bowl. In another bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. This combo gives your fries that irresistible crispy and cheesy coating.
Step 3:
Pat the zucchini sticks dry with paper towels to soak up any extra moisture. Dip each piece into the egg, making sure it’s fully coated, then roll it in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently so the coating sticks well.
Step 4:
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F. Arrange the zucchini fries in a single layer in the basket—avoid overcrowding! Spray them lightly with cooking spray to boost crispiness.
Step 5:
Air fry for about 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through so they cook evenly. Watch for that golden-brown color and crispy crunch—it’s your green light to dig in.
Step 6:
Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce—ranch, marinara, or even a zesty aioli. These fries are best fresh but still tasty reheated in the air fryer for a few minutes.
Variations & Tips
- Try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper to the breadcrumb mix for a spicy kick.
- Swap Parmesan for Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast for a different cheesy flavor.
- For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free panko or crushed cornflakes.
- Double the batch if serving to a crowd; just cook in batches to keep fries crisp.
- If you don’t have an air fryer, bake them on a parchment-lined baking sheet at 425°F for 20 minutes, flipping once.
- Make dipping sauces in advance like garlic mayo or a tangy lemon-herb yogurt dip.
How I Like to Serve It
These zucchini fries are perfect alongside a juicy burger or grilled chicken for a light summer dinner. They also make a crowd-pleasing party snack—just pair them with a variety of dips and watch everyone go back for seconds. When zucchini is in season, I’m basically making these every week!
Notes
- Store leftover fries in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- Reheat in the air fryer at 375°F for about 3-5 minutes to regain crispiness.
Closing: Once you try these zucchini fries, you’ll see just how quick and easy it is to turn simple veggies into a crunchy, cheesy delight everyone loves.
