Make these Crispy Baked Zucchini Fries for a healthy and delicious snack or appetizer. Coated with seasoned panko and Parmesan, they’re baked to golden perfection in just 25 minutes. Perfect for guilt-free snacking or as a party favorite!
Recipe Overview
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Calories: 220 per serving
Why You’ll Love These Crispy Baked Zucchini Fries
Crispy Baked Zucchini Fries are the perfect guilt-free snack or appetizer. These fries are lightly breaded with seasoned panko and Parmesan, then baked to golden perfection. They’re crunchy on the outside, tender on the inside, and a delicious way to enjoy more veggies. Pair them with your favorite dipping sauce for a tasty treat that’s sure to please both kids and adults alike.
Ingredients for Crispy Baked Zucchini Fries
- 2 medium zucchini – Fresh and firm, perfect for slicing into fries.
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs – Adds a light and crispy coating.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese – Enhances the flavor with a savory touch.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder – For a subtle garlic flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika – Adds a mild, smoky flavor and color.
- Salt and pepper to taste – Enhances the overall flavor.
- 2 large eggs – Beaten, to help the coating adhere to the zucchini.
- Cooking spray – For greasing the baking sheet and coating the fries for extra crispiness.
How to Make Crispy Baked Zucchini Fries
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly grease it with cooking spray.
Step 2: Prepare the Zucchini
- Slice the Zucchini: Cut the zucchini into fry-sized sticks, about 3-4 inches long and 1/4-inch thick.
- Set Up the Breading Station: In one bowl, beat the eggs. In another bowl, mix together the panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Step 3: Bread the Zucchini
- Coat the Zucchini: Dip each zucchini stick into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess to drip off, then roll it in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
- Arrange on the Baking Sheet: Place the breaded zucchini sticks on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
Step 4: Bake the Zucchini Fries
- Bake: Lightly spray the zucchini fries with cooking spray. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden and crispy.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
- Serve: Serve the zucchini fries hot with your favorite dipping sauce, such as marinara, ranch, or garlic aioli.
Tips for the Best Crispy Baked Zucchini Fries
- Use Fresh Zucchini: Fresh, firm zucchini will yield the best texture.
- Don’t Skip the Cooking Spray: A light mist of cooking spray helps the fries get extra crispy.
- Serve Immediately: These fries are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven when they are the crispiest.
Delicious Variations to Try
- Spicy Zucchini Fries: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture for a kick of heat.
- Cheesy Zucchini Fries: Increase the Parmesan and add a sprinkle of mozzarella for extra cheesy goodness.
- Herbed Zucchini Fries: Mix in some dried Italian herbs like oregano or basil to the breadcrumb mixture for an herby twist.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Other Vegetables?
- Yes, you can use other vegetables like carrots, sweet potatoes, or eggplant for a similar crispy treat.
What’s the Best Dipping Sauce for Zucchini Fries?
- Zucchini fries pair well with marinara sauce, garlic aioli, or even a simple yogurt dip.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
- Calories: 220
- Total Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
- Sodium: 250mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 22g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 3g
- Protein: 10g
Crispy Baked Zucchini Fries are a delightful and healthy snack or appetizer that’s easy to make and full of flavor. Perfect for a quick bite or to serve at parties, these fries are sure to be a hit with everyone. Serve them with your favorite dipping sauce, and enjoy the guilt-free goodness!