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Step-by-Step Instructions
Making zucchini fries at home is incredibly easy and takes only about 30 minutes from start to finish. Here’s how to prepare them:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature is crucial for getting that crispy, golden exterior without frying.
- Prepare the Zucchini: Wash the zucchinis thoroughly and slice off both ends. Cut the zucchinis into fries—about ½-inch thick strips. If you prefer thicker fries, feel free to adjust the size, but keep in mind that thinner fries tend to cook more evenly.
- Prepare the Breading Station: Set up two shallow bowls for dipping the zucchini fries. In the first bowl, whisk the eggs. In the second bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir until the mixture is well-combined.
- Coat the Zucchini Fries: Dip each zucchini strip into the egg mixture, allowing any excess egg to drip off. Then, coat the zucchini with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure an even layer. Repeat until all zucchini fries are coated.
- Arrange the Fries on a Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat to prevent the fries from sticking. Arrange the breaded zucchini fries in a single layer on the sheet. Be sure not to crowd them—this helps them crisp up properly.
- Spray with Olive Oil: Lightly spray the zucchini fries with olive oil to help them crisp up in the oven. The oil will give them that golden color and satisfying crunch without the need for deep frying.
- Bake the Zucchini Fries: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the zucchini fries are golden brown and crispy. Halfway through baking, flip the fries to ensure they cook evenly on both sides.
- Serve and Enjoy: Once the zucchini fries are perfectly crispy, remove them from the oven. Serve them hot with your favorite dipping sauce, such as marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or a tangy garlic aioli.
Tips for Perfect Zucchini Fries
- Cut Evenly: Try to cut the zucchini into even-sized fries to ensure they cook at the same rate. This helps prevent some fries from being overcooked while others remain underdone.
- Don’t Skip the Oil: A light spray of olive oil is essential for achieving that golden, crispy finish. Without it, the fries may turn out soggy.
- Use Panko Breadcrumbs for Extra Crunch: Panko breadcrumbs have a light, airy texture that results in a crispier fry. If you want extra crunch, they’re the way to go!
- Add Fresh Herbs: While dried herbs like oregano work well in the breadcrumb mixture, fresh herbs like basil or parsley can be sprinkled on top of the fries after baking for an extra burst of flavor.
- Serve Immediately: Zucchini fries are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven while they’re still warm and crispy. If you need to store leftovers, place them in an airtight container and reheat them in the oven to maintain their crispiness.
Why You’ll Love Zucchini Fries
Zucchini fries are the perfect balance of crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. They’re flavorful, satisfying, and healthier than traditional fries. Plus, they’re incredibly versatile—perfect for serving alongside burgers, grilled meats, or a salad for a lighter, vegetable-packed meal. If you’re looking to cut back on carbs or simply enjoy a new way to eat more veggies, zucchini fries will quickly become a family favorite.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re looking for a healthier snack, a new side dish, or a fun twist on traditional fries, zucchini fries are the perfect solution. With a light coating of breadcrumbs and Parmesan, these crispy zucchini fries are a great way to enjoy the delicious crunch of fries while getting the added benefits of a nutrient-packed vegetable. They’re quick to make, easy to customize, and guaranteed to be a hit with anyone who loves crispy, flavorful snacks!
