Description
Crispy Air Fryer Parmesan Zucchini Fries are a delicious and healthier alternative to traditional fries, featuring tender zucchini sticks coated in a flavorful Parmesan and panko breadcrumb mixture, then air-fried to golden perfection. Perfect as a snack, appetizer, or side dish, these fries are quick to prepare, low in calories, and packed with savory Italian-inspired flavors.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Zucchini Fries
- 2 medium zucchinis, cut into fry-sized sticks
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon water
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Cooking spray
Instructions
- Prepare the Breading Stations: Set up three shallow bowls: one with 1/2 cup all-purpose flour, one with the beaten eggs and 1 tablespoon water combined, and the third with a mixture of 1 cup panko breadcrumbs, 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning, 1/4 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. This setup ensures easy and even coating of the zucchini sticks.
- Coat the Zucchini: Dip each zucchini stick first into the flour until lightly coated, then into the egg mixture to moisten, and finally into the breadcrumb-Parmesan mixture, pressing gently so the coating adheres well on all sides.
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3 to 5 minutes to ensure it reaches the ideal temperature for a crispy finish.
- Arrange and Spray: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Place the coated zucchini fries in a single layer, working in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding. Lightly spray the tops of the fries with cooking spray to promote crispness.
- Air Fry the Zucchini Fries: Cook the zucchini fries in the air fryer at 400°F (200°C) for 8 to 10 minutes. Flip them halfway through the cooking time to ensure even browning and crispiness on all sides.
- Serve: Once the fries are golden brown and crisp, remove them from the air fryer and serve immediately with your choice of dipping sauces like marinara, ranch, or garlic aioli.
Notes
- For even extra crispiness, use only panko breadcrumbs instead of regular ones.
- Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the breadcrumb mixture if you prefer a spicy kick.
- Leftover fries can be reheated in the air fryer for 3 to 4 minutes to regain their crisp texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Side Dish
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
