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Chef Amber

Air Fryer Parmesan Zucchini Fries (Crispy & Healthy)

Extra-crispy zucchini fries coated in parmesan breadcrumb mixture and air-fried until golden. Healthy low-carb snack or side dish ready in 15 minutes.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 22 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Appetizer
Cuisine: American
Calories: 145

Ingredients
  

For the Zucchini Fries:

Medium Zucchini: 3 (about 1.5 lbs total)

All-Purpose Flour: ½ cup for first coating

Eggs: 2 large beaten

Panko Breadcrumbs: 1 cup for crispiness

Parmesan Cheese: ¾ cup freshly grated

Italian Seasoning: 1 teaspoon for flavor

Garlic Powder: 1 teaspoon for depth

Paprika: ½ teaspoon for color

Salt: 1 teaspoon divided

Black Pepper: ½ teaspoon for seasoning

Cooking Spray: for air fryer basket

For Serving:

Marinara Sauce: 1 cup for dipping

Fresh Parsley: 2 tablespoons chopped

Extra Parmesan: for garnish

Method
 

  1. Step 1: Trim ends off zucchini and cut each one in half crosswise. Cut each half lengthwise into quarters, then cut each quarter into thick sticks about ½-inch wide, resembling traditional french fry shape. Spread zucchini sticks on paper towels, sprinkle lightly with salt, and let sit for 10 minutes. Pat completely dry with fresh paper towels to remove excess moisture.
    Step 2: Set up three shallow bowls for breading station. In first bowl, add flour mixed with ¼ teaspoon salt. In second bowl, beat eggs with 1 tablespoon water until smooth. In third bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, grated parmesan, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, paprika, remaining salt, and black pepper, mixing thoroughly to distribute seasonings evenly.
    Step 3: Working in batches, dredge zucchini sticks in flour and shake off excess. Dip in beaten egg, letting excess drip back into bowl. Finally, press into breadcrumb-parmesan mixture, coating all sides evenly and pressing gently so breading adheres well. Place breaded fries on a clean plate without letting them touch.
    Step 4: Preheat air fryer to 400°F for 3 minutes. Spray air fryer basket generously with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Arrange breaded zucchini fries in a single layer with space between each piece, working in batches to avoid overcrowding. Spray tops lightly with cooking spray. Air fry for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until coating is deep golden brown and crispy.
    Step 5: Remove fries immediately from air fryer and transfer to serving platter. While hot, sprinkle with extra parmesan cheese and fresh chopped parsley. Serve immediately with warm marinara sauce for dipping. Repeat air frying process with remaining batches, keeping first batch warm in a 200°F oven if needed.

Notes

Nutrition Facts (per serving): Carbs: 12g | Protein: 8g | Fat: 7g