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Are you craving a tasty snack that’s both crispy and healthy? Look no further! In this article, I’ll show you how to make Air Fryer Parmesan Zucchini Fries. With just a few simple ingredients and a quick cooking process, you can enjoy a delightful treat that satisfies your cravings without the extra calories. Let’s dive into the easy steps and tips to make your zucchini fries a hit!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: This recipe is simple and requires minimal prep, making it perfect for a quick snack or side dish.
- Healthier Alternative: Using an air fryer means you can enjoy crispy fries without the excess oil typically used in frying.
- Flavorful Coating: The combination of Parmesan and seasonings creates a deliciously savory crust that elevates the zucchini.
- Great for All Ages: These zucchini fries are a fantastic way to get kids and adults alike to enjoy their vegetables!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– 2 medium zucchinis
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Seasoning and Coating
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Additional Ingredients
– 1 large egg
– Cooking spray
To make delicious Air Fryer Parmesan Zucchini Fries, gather these simple ingredients. Start with two medium zucchinis. Cut them into fry shapes. Use one cup of panko breadcrumbs for that extra crunch. Grab half a cup of grated Parmesan cheese for a rich flavor.
Next, we need to season our fries. You’ll need one teaspoon of garlic powder and one teaspoon of Italian seasoning to give the fries a nice taste. Add half a teaspoon of salt and a quarter teaspoon of black pepper for some extra zing.
For the coating, beat one large egg in a bowl. This will help the breadcrumbs stick to the zucchini. Finally, don’t forget the cooking spray. It keeps the fries from sticking to the air fryer. With these ingredients ready, you’re all set to create a crispy and tasty treat!

Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
– Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). This ensures even cooking.
– Cut the zucchinis into fry shapes, about 1/4 inch thick.
– In a bowl, beat one large egg until it is frothy.
Coating the Zucchini
– In a different bowl, mix together:
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– Dip each zucchini fry into the egg first. Make sure it gets fully coated.
– Next, roll the fry in the breadcrumb mixture. This gives it a nice crunch. Repeat for all the zucchini pieces.
Air Frying Process
– Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray. This helps prevent sticking.
– Place the coated zucchini fries in the basket. Make sure they do not overlap.
– Air fry for 10-12 minutes. Flip the fries halfway through. This helps them cook evenly.
– Look for a golden brown color to know they are done. Then, let them cool for a few minutes before serving.
Tips & Tricks
Achieving Crispiness
To get that perfect crunch, panko breadcrumbs are key. They are light and airy, allowing more air to flow around the fries. This helps them cook evenly. I mix panko with grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor. When you coat the fries, use cooking spray to keep them from sticking. A light spray before and during cooking makes a big difference.
Cooking in Batches
Sometimes, you may need to cook in batches. If you overcrowd the air fryer, the fries won’t cook evenly. I always place them in a single layer. This way, each fry gets that nice, crispy finish. If you have a lot, just cook them in two or three rounds.
Serving Suggestions
Zucchini fries taste great with dips. I love to pair them with marinara sauce or ranch dressing. You can also serve them with a fresh salad or grilled chicken for a full meal. Enjoying them with friends makes them even better!
Pro Tips
- Choose Fresh Zucchini: Look for firm, shiny zucchinis with no blemishes. Fresh zucchinis will yield better texture and flavor in your fries.
- Customize Your Coating: Feel free to add your favorite spices or herbs to the breadcrumb mixture for extra flavor. Smoked paprika or cayenne pepper can add a nice kick!
- Don’t Overcrowd the Basket: For the crispiest results, make sure to arrange the zucchini fries in a single layer without overlapping them. This allows for even cooking and browning.
- Serve Immediately: These fries are best enjoyed fresh out of the air fryer while they’re still crispy. Serve them with a dipping sauce for an extra treat!

Variations
Seasonal Ingredients
You can mix it up with seasonal veggies. Try using eggplant or sweet potatoes instead of zucchini. These veggies add different flavors and textures. You can also switch cheeses. Instead of Parmesan, use mozzarella for a melty treat or feta for a salty kick.
Flavor Enhancements
Want more spice? Add red pepper flakes to your breadcrumb mix. This gives your fries a nice heat. Fresh or dried herbs like basil or oregano can boost the flavor too. Toss some in for a fresh taste that shines through.
Gluten-Free Alternatives
For a gluten-free option, look for gluten-free breadcrumbs at the store. They work just as well! If you want a vegan version, replace the egg with a flax egg. Just mix one tablespoon of ground flaxseed with three tablespoons of water and let it sit for a few minutes. This mix binds your fries perfectly without eggs.
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
To keep your zucchini fries fresh, place them in an airtight container. Line the bottom with paper towels to absorb extra moisture. This helps keep them crispy. Store the container in the fridge for up to three days for the best taste.
Reheating Instructions
When it’s time to eat your leftovers, you can reheat them in two ways: the oven or the air fryer. The air fryer works best for keeping them crispy. Set your air fryer to 350°F and heat for 5 to 7 minutes. If you use the oven, preheat it to 375°F. Place the fries on a baking sheet for about 10 to 15 minutes. Avoid using the microwave as it can make the fries soggy.
Freezing Options
You can freeze zucchini fries for longer storage. First, lay them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze them for about an hour until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can last up to three months in the freezer. To thaw, move them to the fridge overnight. Reheat them in the air fryer or oven to regain their crispiness.
FAQs
How long do I air fry zucchini fries?
Air frying zucchini fries takes about 10 to 12 minutes. Start at 400°F (200°C). Check them after 5 minutes and flip them for even cooking. They should turn golden brown and crispy. If they need more time, add a minute or two. Always watch them closely. Cooking time can vary depending on your air fryer model.
Can I use regular breadcrumbs instead of panko?
You can use regular breadcrumbs, but panko is better. Panko is lighter and crunchier. It gives the fries a crispier texture. Regular breadcrumbs are finer and may not provide the same crunch. If you use them, the fries may feel softer. For the best results, stick with panko.
What to serve with air fryer zucchini fries?
Zucchini fries pair well with various dips. Try marinara sauce for a classic touch. Ranch dressing is another popular choice. You can also use garlic aioli for a tasty twist. They also go great with a side salad or as a side to grilled chicken. Enjoy these fries with your favorite flavors!
In this post, we explored how to make crispy air fryer zucchini fries. We covered the main ingredients, coating methods, and air frying steps to ensure delicious results. Tips for optimal crispiness and variations added extra options. Always store leftovers properly to maintain flavor.
Try these zucchini fries at your next meal or snack! You’ll enjoy their taste and crunc
Crispy Air Fryer Parmesan Zucchini Fries
Deliciously crispy zucchini fries made in the air fryer, coated with panko and Parmesan.
Prep Time 15 minutes mins
Cook Time 10 minutes mins
Total Time 25 minutes mins
Course Appetizer
Cuisine American
Servings 4
Calories 150 kcal
- 2 medium zucchinis, cut into fries
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- 0.25 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 large egg
- 1 spray cooking spray
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
In a medium bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Mix well and set aside.
In another bowl, beat the egg until frothy.
Dip each zucchini fry first into the egg, ensuring it's fully coated, then roll it in the breadcrumb mixture to coat evenly. Repeat with all zucchini pieces.
Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Place the coated zucchini fries in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they don’t overlap. You may need to do this in batches.
Air fry for 10-12 minutes, or until the fries are golden brown and crispy, flipping halfway through the cooking time.
Once done, remove from the air fryer and let cool for a few minutes before serving.
For extra crispiness, ensure the zucchini fries are not overlapping in the air fryer.
Keyword air fryer, appetizer, vegetarian, zucchini fries
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