Description
Crispy and flavorful Baked Zucchini Fries offer a healthy twist on a classic snack, featuring a crunchy Parmesan and panko breadcrumb coating baked to golden perfection. Served with a zesty homemade lemon garlic aioli, these fries make for a delicious appetizer or side dish that’s easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Zucchini Fries
- 2 medium zucchinis
- 1 egg, whisked
- ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
- ½ cup grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
Lemon Garlic Aioli
- ¼ cup Greek yogurt
- ¼ cup mayonnaise
- Juice from 1 lemon (2-3 tablespoons)
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Prepare a baking sheet by coating it with cooking spray or lining it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Prepare Breadcrumb Mixture: In a small bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmigiano-Reggiano, Italian seasoning, and sea salt. Mix well to evenly distribute the flavors.
- Slice Zucchini: Cut each zucchini in half lengthwise, then slice each half into two pieces widthwise. Slice each piece into 4 to 6 fries, aiming for uniform size. Pat the zucchini sticks dry thoroughly with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
- Coat Zucchini: Dip each zucchini fry into the whisked egg, allowing excess to drip off, then dredge it into the breadcrumb and cheese mixture, pressing gently to ensure adhesion.
- Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place the coated zucchini fries evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet to ensure crispy edges and even baking.
- Bake Fries: Bake in the preheated oven for 10 minutes. Flip each fry carefully, then return to the oven and bake an additional 10 minutes or until the fries are golden brown and crispy.
- Prepare Aioli: While the fries bake, whisk together Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and pepper in a small bowl until smooth and creamy.
- Serve: Once baked, remove the zucchini fries from the oven, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve immediately with the lemon garlic aioli for dipping.
Notes
- Patting the zucchini dry helps to achieve crispier fries by reducing moisture content.
- Using parchment paper prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier.
- For an extra crunch, you can double dip the zucchini fries by repeating the egg and breadcrumb coating step.
- Feel free to adjust the seasoning in the breadcrumb mixture to your taste.
- These fries are best served fresh and hot for optimal crispiness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
