Description
Crispy, cheesy zucchini sticks—baked (or air‑fried) to golden perfection and so satisfying, they might just replace breadsticks forever.
Ingredients
- 3 medium zucchini, cut into sticks (~12–16 pieces)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (Panko or regular)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon onion powder (optional)
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- Cooking spray or light oil for baking/air‑frying
- Optional: ½ teaspoon dried Italian seasoning or fresh chopped herbs for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 425 °F (220 °C) or prepare air fryer to 400 °F (200 °C).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly spray with cooking oil—or lightly oil the air fryer basket.
- In one bowl, beat the eggs; in another bowl, mix breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder (if using), salt, and pepper.
- Dip each zucchini stick into the beaten eggs, letting excess drip off, then coat thoroughly in the breadcrumb‑cheese mixture.
- Arrange coated zucchini sticks in a single layer on the baking sheet or in the air fryer basket—making sure they don’t touch.
- Bake for 15–20 minutes (or air‑fry for about 10–12 minutes), until golden brown and crispy. For extra crunch, gently flip halfway through cooking.
- Remove from oven or air fryer and let cool for a minute. Garnish with a sprinkle of Parmesan or herbs if desired.
- Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce—marinara, ranch, or aioli.
Notes
- For a chewy-cheesy center, use mozzarella or cheddar mixed into the breadcrumbs.
- To make gluten‑free, substitute gluten‑free breadcrumbs.
- To add spice, toss the zucchini sticks or breadcrumbs with a pinch of chili flakes or cayenne.
- Air‑fryer option yields extra-crispy texture but keep an eye on them—it’s fast!
- Store leftovers in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 2 days; reheat in the oven to restore crispiness.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 sticks (approx.)
- Calories: 140
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 280mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
