Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 medium zucchini
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (for draining moisture)
Breading Station
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon water or milk
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko recommended for extra crispiness)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (for seasoning the coating)
Cooking
- Olive oil spray or avocado oil spray
Equipment Needed
- Air fryer
- Sharp knife
- Cutting board
- 3 shallow bowls or plates
- Paper towels
- Tongs
Step 1: Prepare the Zucchini
- Wash the zucchini thoroughly under cold water.
- Trim off both ends.
- Cut each zucchini in half lengthwise.
- Cut each half into long fry-shaped sticks, about 1/2 inch thick.
Try to keep the fries uniform in size so they cook evenly.
Step 2: Remove Excess Moisture (Very Important)
Zucchini contains a lot of water, which can prevent crisping.
- Place the zucchini sticks in a bowl.
- Sprinkle with 1/2 teaspoon salt.
- Toss gently and let sit for 10–15 minutes.
- You will notice moisture collecting on the surface.
- Pat the zucchini completely dry with paper towels.
Do not skip this step. Removing moisture is key to crispy fries.
Step 3: Set Up the Breading Station
Prepare three separate bowls:
Bowl 1: Flour
- Add the flour.
- Lightly season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
Bowl 2: Egg Wash
- Crack the eggs into the bowl.
- Add 1 tablespoon water or milk.
- Whisk until smooth.
Bowl 3: Breadcrumb Mixture
- Combine breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.
- Add garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, black pepper, and salt.
- Mix thoroughly so seasoning is evenly distributed.
Step 4: Bread the Zucchini Fries
- Dredge zucchini in flour, shaking off excess.
- Dip into the egg mixture, coating completely.
- Press into the breadcrumb mixture, making sure all sides are covered.
- Place breaded fries on a clean plate.
For extra crispiness, gently press the breadcrumbs onto the zucchini.
Step 5: Preheat the Air Fryer
- Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3–5 minutes.
Preheating helps the coating start crisping immediately.
Step 6: Air Fry the Zucchini Fries
- Lightly spray the air fryer basket with oil.
- Arrange zucchini fries in a single layer.
- Do not overcrowd.
- Cook in batches if necessary.
- Spray the tops of the fries lightly with oil.
Cooking Time
- Cook at 400°F (200°C) for 10 minutes.
- Flip the fries carefully.
- Spray lightly again.
- Cook for another 6–8 minutes, until golden brown and crispy.
Cooking time may vary slightly depending on your air fryer model.
Step 7: Final Crisp Check
- If fries are not crisp enough, cook in 2-minute increments.
- Remove immediately once golden to avoid overcooking.
Let them rest for 1–2 minutes before serving. This helps the coating set.
Dipping Sauce Ideas
Zucchini fries pair well with many sauces:
- Marinara sauce
- Garlic aioli
- Ranch dressing
- Spicy mayo
- Greek yogurt mixed with lemon and garlic
