Description
These Crispy Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Zucchini Fries are a delicious and healthier alternative to traditional fries. Coated with a savory mixture of panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning, then air fried to golden perfection, they make a perfect snack or appetizer that’s crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.
Ingredients
Scale
Zucchini Fries
- 2 medium zucchinis
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Olive oil spray
For Serving (Optional)
- Marinara sauce for dipping
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the zucchini fries. Wash the zucchinis thoroughly and cut them into fry-like shapes, about 3-4 inches in length and 1/2 inch thick for even cooking.
- Set up the breading station. Arrange three shallow bowls: one with all-purpose flour, the second with beaten eggs, and the third containing a mix of panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
- Preheat the air fryer. Set your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it’s hot and ready for cooking the fries.
- Bread the zucchini fries. Dip each zucchini piece first into the flour, then coat it with the beaten eggs, and finally roll it in the seasoned breadcrumb and Parmesan mixture, pressing lightly to adhere the coating well.
- Arrange in the air fryer basket. Place the coated zucchini fries in a single layer inside the air fryer basket to avoid overcrowding, which helps them cook evenly and crisp up properly. Cook in batches if needed.
- Add olive oil spray. Lightly spray the coated fries with olive oil to encourage golden and crispy texture during air frying.
- Air fry the zucchini fries. Cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping the fries halfway through to ensure even browning and crispiness on all sides.
- Remove and repeat if necessary. Carefully take out the cooked fries from the air fryer basket and repeat the breading and cooking process with remaining zucchini pieces.
- Serve and garnish. Optionally, garnish the fries with freshly chopped parsley and serve hot with a side of marinara sauce for dipping to enhance the flavor.
Notes
- Ensure zucchini pieces are cut to a uniform size for even cooking.
- Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket to allow hot air to circulate freely for maximum crispiness.
- Use olive oil spray rather than pouring oil to keep the fries light and crispy.
- Marinara sauce pairs exceptionally well though other dipping sauces like ranch or aioli can also be great alternatives.
- For gluten-free option, substitute all-purpose flour and panko with gluten-free alternatives.
