Name: Air Fryer Zucchini Fries
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 medium zucchini; ⅓ cup all-purpose flour; 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning; 1 teaspoon kosher salt, or to taste; ½ teaspoon black pepper, or to taste; 2 large eggs; ½ cup plain bread crumbs; ½ cup Panko bread crumbs; ⅓ cup grated Parmesan cheese; Cooking oil spray, for cooking; 4-5 cloves garlic, minced (for aioli); 1-2 tablespoons fresh lemon or lime juice (for aioli); ½ teaspoon Dijon mustard (for aioli); ⅔ cup mayonnaise (for aioli); Kosher salt, to taste (for aioli); Black pepper, to taste (for aioli)

Air Fryer Zucchini Fries are a delightful twist on traditional fries, offering a crispy, cheesy exterior with a tender zucchini center. This recipe provides a healthier alternative to deep-fried snacks, making it perfect for guilt-free indulgence.

Why I Love This Recipe

I appreciate how this recipe transforms simple zucchini into a savory snack that’s both satisfying and nutritious. The combination of Italian seasoning and Parmesan cheese adds a burst of flavor, while the air fryer ensures a crispy texture without excessive oil. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy vegetables in a fun and tasty form.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

2 medium zucchini
⅓ cup all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
1 teaspoon kosher salt, or to taste
½ teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
2 large eggs
½ cup plain bread crumbs
½ cup Panko bread crumbs
⅓ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Cooking oil spray, for cooking

Garlic Aioli:

4-5 cloves garlic, minced
1-2 tablespoons fresh lemon or lime juice
½ teaspoon Dijon mustard
⅔ cup mayonnaise
Kosher salt, to taste
Black pepper, to taste

Directions

Slice the zucchini into 3-inch long, ½-inch thick “fries” and set aside.
In one shallow bowl, whisk together the flour, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. In a second bowl, lightly whisk the eggs. In a third shallow bowl, combine the breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.
Dredge each zucchini fry in the flour mixture, then dip into the egg, allowing the excess to drip off. Roll in the breadcrumb mixture, coating completely, and set on a plate.
Spray the inner basket of your air fryer with cooking oil spray, then preheat to 400°F (200°C).
Working in batches, place the zucchini fries in a single layer in the air fryer. Spray the tops of the fries lightly with cooking oil. Air fry for 8-10 minutes, flipping once, until golden brown and crispy. Season with kosher salt while warm.
While the fries are cooking, make the aioli. In a small bowl, stir the garlic, lemon or lime juice, and Dijon mustard together until combined. Allow it to sit for 10-15 minutes. Whisk in mayonnaise until smooth, then season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve with the cooked zucchini fries.

Servings and Timing

This recipe yields approximately 4 servings. The total preparation time is about 25 minutes, with 15 minutes for prep and 10 minutes for cooking.

Variations

Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the breadcrumb mixture for a spicy version.
Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh chopped herbs like parsley or basil into the breadcrumb mixture for added freshness.
Cheese Swap: Substitute Parmesan with Pecorino Romano or Asiago for a different cheesy flavor.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs to accommodate dietary restrictions.

Storage/Reheating

To store leftovers, place the cooled zucchini fries in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days. For reheating, preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and cook the fries for 3-5 minutes until heated through and crispy. Avoid microwaving, as it may result in soggy fries.

FAQs

How do I prevent the zucchini fries from becoming soggy?

I make sure to cut the zucchini into uniform sizes and avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket. This allows for even cooking and crispiness.

Can I prepare the zucchini fries ahead of time?

Yes, I can bread the zucchini sticks and refrigerate them for up to 4 hours before cooking. This makes it convenient for entertaining or meal prep.

What dipping sauces pair well with these fries?

Besides garlic aioli, I enjoy serving these fries with marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or a spicy sriracha mayo for variety.

Can I bake these zucchini fries instead of air frying?

Absolutely. I preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) and bake the fries on a parchment-lined baking sheet for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.

Is it necessary to peel the zucchini?

No, I leave the skin on for added texture and nutrients. Just ensure the zucchini is thoroughly washed before slicing.

Conclusion

Air Fryer Zucchini Fries are a delicious and healthier alternative to traditional fries, offering a crispy texture and savory flavor that’s hard to resist. Whether served as a snack, appetizer, or side dish, they are sure to be a hit with family and friends. Enjoy experimenting with different seasonings and dipping sauces to make this recipe your own.