Crispy Zucchini Fries with Parmesan (Print Version)
Crispy baked zucchini fries coated in Parmesan and Italian herbs. Ready in 40 minutes. Perfect vegetarian appetizer.
# Recipe Ingredients:
→ Vegetables
01 - 2 medium zucchinis
→ Breading
02 - 2/3 cup all-purpose flour
03 - 2 large eggs
04 - 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
05 - 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
→ Seasonings
06 - 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
07 - 1/2 teaspoon dried Italian herbs
08 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
09 - 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
# Directions:
01 - Preheat oven to 425°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease with nonstick spray.
02 - Wash and trim the zucchinis. Cut into fries approximately 1/2 inch thick and 3 inches long.
03 - Arrange three shallow bowls: first with flour, second with beaten eggs, third with panko breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan, garlic powder, Italian herbs, salt, and pepper.
04 - Dredge each zucchini fry in flour, dip in beaten eggs, then coat thoroughly in the panko-Parmesan mixture.
05 - Place coated fries on prepared baking sheet, spacing them apart to ensure even cooking.
06 - Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crisp.
07 - Transfer hot zucchini fries to serving plate. Serve immediately with marinara sauce or garlic aioli.
# Expert Advice:
01 -
- These fries maintain their addictive crispness without deep frying, so you can enjoy seconds without the guilt.
- The combination of Parmesan and herbs creates such depth of flavor that even dedicated french fry enthusiasts request these instead.
02 -
- Salting and patting the zucchini dry before breading removes excess moisture and prevents the heartbreak of sogginess.
- The fries continue crisping for a few minutes after coming out of the oven, so resist the urge to leave them in longer if they look almost done.
03 -
- After flipping the fries halfway through baking, turn your oven to broil for the final two minutes for extra golden crispiness without overcooking the zucchini inside.
- Store any leftover fries uncovered in the refrigerator, then reheat in a 375°F oven for 4-5 minutes to restore their crispness.