If you’re craving a healthier yet delicious alternative to traditional fries, then these Air Fryer Zucchini Fries are for you. Zucchini is a versatile vegetable that takes on a crispy texture when cooked in the air fryer, making it a perfect substitute for fries. Not only are these zucchini fries healthier than their potato counterparts, but they’re also incredibly easy to make, packed with flavor, and make a great snack, side dish, or appetizer for any occasion.
The best part about these zucchini fries is how simple and quick they are to prepare. With just a few ingredients and your trusty air fryer, you can have golden, crispy fries ready in no time. Plus, they’re customizable! You can adjust the seasoning to fit your taste, whether you prefer a mild flavor or something spicier. Let’s dive right in and see how you can make these crispy zucchini fries at home.
What You Need To Make This Recipe
Zucchini: Zucchini is the star of this dish! It’s low in calories but packed with nutrients, making it a great option for a healthier fry. Cut into thin strips, it provides the perfect texture when cooked in the air fryer, crisping up beautifully.
Breadcrumbs: Breadcrumbs give these zucchini fries their crispy exterior. You can use traditional breadcrumbs or panko breadcrumbs for an extra crunch. For a gluten-free version, simply substitute with gluten-free breadcrumbs.
Parmesan Cheese: Parmesan adds a savory and slightly nutty flavor that complements the zucchini perfectly. It also helps create a golden crust when baking, giving your fries that crispy, golden finish.
Egg: The egg acts as a binding agent, helping the breadcrumbs and seasonings stick to the zucchini. It’s essential for achieving that crispy, crunchy coating.
Garlic Powder: Garlic powder is the key to adding a delicious, savory depth of flavor to the zucchini fries. It’s an easy way to elevate the taste without being overpowering.
Salt and Pepper: Salt and pepper are a must to season the zucchini fries. They bring out the natural flavor of the zucchini and balance the richness of the parmesan.
Ingredients List
- 2 medium zucchinis, cut into fries
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to Make Air Fryer Zucchini Fries
Step 1: Prepare the Zucchini
Start by washing and trimming the zucchinis. Cut them into long, thin strips, resembling fries. You can make them as thick or thin as you prefer, but thinner strips tend to crisp up better in the air fryer.
Step 2: Coat the Zucchini Fries
In one bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. In another bowl, beat the egg. Dip each zucchini strip into the egg, allowing any excess to drip off, and then coat it in the breadcrumb mixture. Press down gently to ensure the coating sticks.
Step 3: Air Fry the Zucchini Fries
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Place the coated zucchini fries in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook them in batches. Air fry for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden brown and crispy.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy!
Once the zucchini fries are crispy and golden, remove them from the air fryer and serve immediately. Pair them with your favorite dipping sauce, such as marinara or ranch, for a delightful treat.
Tips for Making this Recipe
- Cutting the Zucchini: The thinner you slice the zucchini, the crispier your fries will be. If you prefer a softer texture, feel free to make them a little thicker, but keep in mind they might not get as crispy.
- Seasoning Variations: Feel free to experiment with different spices. Add paprika, onion powder, or Italian seasoning to customize the flavor to your liking.
- Crispier Fries: For extra crispiness, spray the zucchini fries with a light coat of cooking spray before air frying. This helps the breadcrumbs crisp up even more.
- Serving: These zucchini fries go wonderfully with a variety of dips such as ranch dressing, marinara sauce, or even a spicy aioli. Get creative with your dip options!
- Storing Leftovers: If you have any leftover zucchini fries, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll keep for up to 2-3 days. To reheat, pop them back into the air fryer for a few minutes to regain their crispiness.
FAQs
Can I use other vegetables besides zucchini? Yes! You can use the same method to make fries with vegetables like eggplant, sweet potatoes, or even carrots.
Can I make these zucchini fries ahead of time? You can prep the zucchini fries ahead of time by coating them and placing them on a baking sheet. Cover and refrigerate them until you’re ready to cook. They may need an extra minute or two in the air fryer to account for being cold.
Do I need to use breadcrumbs? Breadcrumbs are essential for getting that crispy coating, but you can use alternatives such as crushed cornflakes or even almond flour for a gluten-free option.