Go Back
In the realm of modern cooking, air fryers have emerged as transformative kitchen appliances, allowing home cooks to prepare their favorite fried foods with significantly less oil. This innovation has made it easier to enjoy crispy delights without the guilt often associated with traditional frying methods. One such delectable recipe that perfectly embodies the air fryer's capabilities is Crispy Air Fryer Parmesan Zucchini Fries. These zucchini fries are not only a healthier alternative to regular fries but also pack a punch of flavor, thanks to the rich addition of Parmesan cheese and a medley of aromatic spices.

Air Fryer Parmesan Zucchini Fries

Discover the delicious crunch of Crispy Air Fryer Parmesan Zucchini Fries, a healthier alternative to traditional fries. This easy recipe transforms versatile zucchini into a flavorful snack or side dish, perfect for everyone. Using minimal oil, hot air circulation ensures a crisp exterior while preserving nutrients. Bursting with flavor from Parmesan cheese and spices, these zucchini fries are not just about taste—they're a step towards guilt-free indulgence. Enjoy this nutritious delight at your next meal!

Ingredients
  

2 medium zucchinis

1 cup panko breadcrumbs (for extra crunch)

½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

½ teaspoon paprika

¼ teaspoon salt

¼ teaspoon black pepper

2 large eggs

1 tablespoon olive oil

Fresh parsley, finely chopped (for garnish, optional)

Marinara sauce (for dipping, optional)

Instructions
 

Prepare the Zucchini: Rinse the zucchinis under cold water and trim off the ends. Cut each zucchini into sticks about ½ inch thick, similar to the size of fries. Use a paper towel to gently pat them dry, ensuring they’re not wet, which helps achieve a crispier texture.

    Mix the Coating: In a large mixing bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir the mixture thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated and evenly distributed.

      Set up a Dredging Station: In a separate bowl, crack the two eggs and whisk them until combined. Add the olive oil to the eggs and mix well. This egg mixture will help the breadcrumb coating adhere to the zucchini sticks.

        Coat the Zucchini Fries: Take each zucchini stick and first dip it into the egg mixture, ensuring it is completely submerged. Allow any excess egg to drip off before rolling the zucchini in the breadcrumb mixture. Press gently to ensure that the breadcrumbs stick well. Arrange the coated fries on a clean plate or a lined baking sheet.

          Preheat the Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and let it preheat for approximately 3-5 minutes. This step helps to achieve that perfect crispy texture.

            Air Fry the Zucchini Fries: Carefully place the zucchini fries in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to work in batches to avoid overcrowding. Lightly spray the fries with cooking spray for an extra crunch.

              Cooking Time: Air fry the zucchini fries for about 10-12 minutes, flipping them halfway through the cooking time. This ensures even browning and crispiness. Keep an eye out for a lovely golden-brown color and a delightful crispy exterior.

                Serve: Once the zucchini fries are cooked to perfection, carefully remove them from the air fryer. Allow them to cool for a minute. If desired, sprinkle with finely chopped fresh parsley for added color and freshness. Serve hot, accompanied by marinara sauce for dipping, if desired.

                  Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 25 minutes | 4 servings