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Parmesan‑Crusted Zucchini Fries - Crispy, Cheesy, and Easy

Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time20 minutes
Total Time35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 3 medium zucchini (firm, not overly large)
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour blend)
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (for extra crunch)
  • 3/4 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese (freshly grated works best)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (or sweet paprika)
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more to finish
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • Olive oil spray or 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Optional dips: marinara, lemon-garlic yogurt, ranch, or aioli

Instructions

  • Prep the zucchini. Wash and dry the zucchini well. Trim the ends, then slice each zucchini into fry-shaped sticks—about 3 inches long and 1/2 inch thick. Pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
  • Set up your coating station. In one shallow bowl, add the flour. In a second bowl, whisk the eggs until smooth. In a third bowl, combine panko, Parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
  • Coat the fries. Work in batches: toss zucchini sticks in flour, shaking off the excess. Dip into the egg to coat, letting extra drip off. Press into the Parmesan-panko mixture until each side is well covered. Place on a plate or sheet as you go.
  • Choose your cooking method. For baking, preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment and lightly oil or spray it. For air frying, preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and lightly oil the basket.
  • Arrange and spray. Place fries in a single layer with a little space between them. Lightly spray the tops with olive oil spray, or drizzle a small amount of olive oil to encourage crisping.
  • Cook until golden. Bake for 18–22 minutes, flipping halfway, until crisp and deep golden at the edges. Air-fry for 10–14 minutes, shaking or flipping halfway, until evenly browned. Thicker fries may take a minute or two longer.
  • Finish and serve. Sprinkle lightly with salt while hot. Serve right away with your dip of choice—marinara for a pizza vibe, or lemony yogurt for a fresh contrast.