Crispy Parmesan Zucchini Fries
Golden, crisp zucchini fries coated in a savory Parmesan and herb crust — crunchy on the outside, tender inside, and baked (not fried!) for a lighter, guilt-free treat. Perfect as a side, snack, or appetizer with your favorite dipping sauce.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20–25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Serves: 3–4
Ingredients
For the Zucchini Fries
2 medium zucchinis
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
½ cup breadcrumbs
½ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp dried oregano or Italian seasoning
¼ tsp paprika
Salt and black pepper, to taste
1 egg, lightly beaten
2 tbsp olive oil spray or drizzle
Optional Dip
½ cup Greek yogurt or mayonnaise
1 tsp lemon juice
½ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp dill, parsley, or basil
Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Zucchini
Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C) (or air fryer to 400°F / 200°C).
Cut zucchini into fry-shaped sticks — about 3 inches long and ½ inch thick.
Pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture (this ensures crispiness).
Step 2: Set Up Coating Stations
In one shallow bowl, whisk the egg.
In another bowl, mix breadcrumbs, Parmesan, garlic powder, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Step 3: Coat the Fries
Dip each zucchini stick into the egg, then coat in the Parmesan-breadcrumb mixture.
Place coated fries on a parchment-lined baking sheet (or in the air fryer basket).
Lightly spray or drizzle with olive oil.
Step 4: Bake or Air Fry
Oven: Bake for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crisp.
Air Fryer: Cook for 10–12 minutes, shaking halfway, until crispy and golden brown.
Step 5: Make the Dip
Whisk together yogurt (or mayo), lemon juice, garlic powder, dill, salt, and pepper until smooth. Serve chilled with the fries.
Notes & Tips
For extra crunch, use panko breadcrumbs and bake on a wire rack.
Avoid overcrowding the baking tray or air fryer basket — cook in batches if needed.
Serve immediately for the best crisp texture.
You can replace Parmesan with pecorino or add crushed almonds to the coating for a twist.
Serving Suggestions
Pair with:
Greek yogurt herb dip
Marinara or tzatziki sauce
Garlic aioli for a creamy touch
Nutritional Information
Calories: 210 kcal
Protein: 10 g
Carbs: 14 g
Fat: 12 g
Fiber: 3 g