These crispy baked Parmesan zucchini fries are a tasty twist on your average snack! They are seasoned perfectly and get a golden crunch without any frying mess.
Honestly, who knew veggies could be so fun? I can’t resist grabbing a few even before they hit the plate! Pair them with a dip, and you have a perfect snack for anytime!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchinis: Fresh zucchinis work best for this recipe. If you can’t find zucchinis, you can substitute with yellow squash or even eggplant for a different flavor and texture!
Panko Breadcrumbs: I love using panko for that extra crunch. If you don’t have panko, regular breadcrumbs work, but they may not be as crispy. You can also use crushed cornflakes or oat flour for a gluten-free option.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated fresh Parmesan cheese adds great taste. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor or use a vegan cheese substitute that melts well.
Eggs: Eggs help the breading stick. If you need a vegan alternative, consider using flaxseed meal mixed with water or a commercial egg replacer.
How Do I Get My Zucchini Fries Extra Crispy?
Getting that perfect crisp is all about the preparation and baking technique. Here are my tips for success:
- Make sure to cut the zucchini into even-sized sticks; this helps them cook evenly.
- After cutting, you can sprinkle the zucchini with a little salt and let them sit for 15-30 minutes. This helps draw out moisture, leading to crispier fries!
- When breading, make sure to coat each stick well and press the breadcrumb mixture into the zucchini. This will ensure that the coating sticks during baking.
- Don’t crowd the fries on the baking sheet; this allows hot air to flow around them for even crisping.
- For the final touch, a quick spray of olive oil before baking can help achieve that golden color and crunch!
How to Make Crispy Baked Parmesan Zucchini Fries
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Zucchini Fries:
- 3 medium zucchinis
For the Coating:
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Other Ingredients:
- 2 large eggs
- Cooking spray or olive oil for greasing
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 25 minutes to bake, making the total time approximately 35-40 minutes. It’s super quick and easy, perfect for a snack or side dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This ensures the fries will bake evenly and become crispy. Be sure to line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray so they don’t stick.
2. Prepare the Zucchini:
Wash the zucchinis thoroughly. Cut off the ends, then slice them into fry-shaped sticks—about 3 inches long and 1/2 inch thick. Try to keep them uniform in size so they cook evenly!
3. Prepare the Egg Mixture:
In a shallow bowl, whisk the eggs until they are smooth. This will help our breadcrumbs stick to the zucchini better.
4. Mix the Coating:
In another shallow bowl, mix together the panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. This blend will give your fries an amazing flavor!
5. Coat the Zucchini Sticks:
Take each zucchini stick and dip it first into the beaten eggs. Make sure it’s well-coated, then transfer it to the breadcrumb mixture. Coat it thoroughly with the breadcrumb mix and press gently to help it stick.
6. Arrange on Baking Sheet:
Place the coated zucchini fries in a single layer on your prepared baking sheet. Make sure they aren’t touching each other—this helps them get crispy all around!
7. Add a Crispy Finish:
Lightly spray or drizzle the tops of the zucchini fries with cooking spray or olive oil to get that beautiful golden color while baking.
8. Bake to Perfection:
Bake the zucchini fries in your preheated oven for 20-25 minutes. Don’t forget to turn them halfway through so they bake evenly. You’ll know they’re ready when they are golden brown and crispy!
9. Cool and Serve:
Once they are done, remove the fries from the oven and let them cool for a couple of minutes. This time allows them to set before digging in.
10. Enjoy!
Serve your crispy baked Parmesan zucchini fries warm, with your favorite dipping sauce on the side, like marinara, ranch dressing, or garlic aioli. Enjoy your tasty, healthy snack!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Different Types of Zucchini?
Absolutely! While regular green zucchinis are the best choice for this recipe, you can also use yellow squash or even eggplant for a different flavor profile. Just remember that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the vegetable you choose.
How Do I Store Leftover Zucchini Fries?
Store any leftover zucchini fries in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes to help regain their crispness, rather than using a microwave, which can make them soggy.
Can I Prepare the Coating Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the breadcrumb mixture in advance! Just make sure to store it in an airtight container at room temperature until you’re ready to use it. This way, you save some time when you’re ready to make the fries!
What Can I Substitute for Parmesan Cheese?
If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, nutritional yeast is a great substitute as it provides a cheesy flavor. You can also try using a vegan cheese alternative that melts well, or simply leave it out for a lighter fried zucchini option!
