Crispy Baked Zucchini Fries with Herby Feta Dip
Recipe Introduction
Fancy a bit of a twist on your usual grub? Ever get bored of the same old chips? Honestly, I did.
That’s when I had a brainwave! Let me introduce you to Baked Zucchini Fries With Herby feta dip. They're flipping delicious!
Quick Hook
Are you looking for a healthy yet delicious alternative to regular fries? These crispy zucchini fries will absolutely knock your socks off.
Trust me, you will never go back to eating the same old soggy fries again.
Brief Overview
These healthy zucchini fries originate from the desire to reinvent a classic, adding a Mediterranean twist. The recipe is easy, taking about an hour from start to finish.
It makes about 4 servings, perfect for a family snack. These fries are also perfect as vegan zucchini chips .
Main Benefits
Zucchini is packed with vitamins and fiber, making these fries a guilt free treat. Vegan baked zucchini fries are perfect for summer barbecues.
The herby feta dip adds a tangy zing that makes this recipe utterly special.
Ready to get started?
Let's talk about the ingredients now. These vegan zucchini sticks are so good they are addictive. They are the perfect appetizer for a party of friends or family.
To make this recipe vegan, use vegan panko .
The best thing about this recipe? It's incredibly versatile. You can even make them in an zucchini fries air fryer for extra crispiness.
The herby feta dip recipe is also amazing, using fresh dill and mint.
Speaking of the dip, I once forgot the garlic, and it was still delicious! I also made it with goat cheese, I have made this baked zucchini fries recipe several times.
Don’t worry if you don’t have feta.
If you're looking for a fun and healthy snack, these vegan zucchini chips recipe are a must try. Get your baking sheets ready and let's get cooking! These crispy zucchini fries are much better than store-bought ones.
Right, let's dive into what you'll need to whip up these Baked Zucchini Fries With Herby feta dip. Trust me, it's simpler than you think!
Ingredients & Equipment
These Vegan Baked Zucchini Fries will become your new favourite. Get ready for some serious crunch!
Main Ingredients
Okay, pay attention. Here's the lowdown on what goes into these bad boys.
- Zucchini: 2 medium (about 1 pound/450g ). They should be firm, not squishy.
- Kosher Salt: 1/2 teaspoon (3g) . This helps draw out moisture.
- All-Purpose Flour: 1/2 cup (60g) .
- Eggs: 2 large, lightly beaten. Can be subbed with a vegan egg replacer.
- Vegan Panko Breadcrumbs: 1 cup (50g) . Honestly, these are the key to crispiness.
- Parmesan Cheese: 1/4 cup (25g) , grated. (Or Vegan Zucchini Chips )
- Italian Seasoning: 1 teaspoon (2g) , dried.
- Garlic Powder: 1/4 teaspoon (1g) .
- Olive Oil: 3 tablespoons (45ml) .
For the dip, you will need:
- Feta Cheese: 4 ounces (115g) , crumbled.
- Greek Yogurt: 1/4 cup (60g) .
- Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons (30ml) .
- Lemon Juice: 2 tablespoons (30ml) .
- Fresh Dill and Mint: 2 tablespoons (10g) each , chopped.
- Garlic: 1 clove , minced.
- Red Pepper Flakes: a pinch (optional).
- Black Pepper: to taste.
Seasoning Notes
The herbs in the dip are crucial. Dill and mint give it that fresh, summery vibe. A little garlic never hurt anyone, did it? If you're feeling brave, chuck in a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of a kick.
If you want a Herby feta dip recipe with a strong mediterranean flavor, add basil.
Equipment Needed
Right, you won't need the kitchen sink for this one. You'll need:
- Baking sheet.
- Parchment paper. This stops your Crispy zucchini fries from sticking.
- Three bowls.
- A cheese grater.
- A mixing bowl and whisk.
- A food processor for the dip (optional).
There you have it. Now you're all set to make some Healthy zucchini fries !
I remember the first time I tried to make these. I completely forgot the salt and the zucchini were soggy.
Don’t be like me, okay? This Baked zucchini fries recipe will transform your snack game! And if you are on diet this Vegan Zucchini Chips Recipe is perfect.
Right then, let's talk Baked Zucchini Fries With Herby dipping magic. Honestly, I've been messing about with this recipe for ages.
Like, ages . My goal? To get proper crispy zucchini fries that aren't a soggy disaster. Turns out, it's all about drawing out that extra moisture.
Nailing Prep: Zucchini Zen
Prepping is key, yeah? This ain't rocket science, but it makes all the difference.
Essential Mise en Place
Get your zucchini chopped into about half inch thick batons. Get everything out before you even start. You know? Flour, eggs, panko, herbs the works.
I always grate my parmesan cheese fresh because it tastes better.
Time Saving Organization Tips
Don’t skip the salting bit. It's crucial for getting rid of that extra moisture. Toss those zucchini sticks with salt and let them sit in a colander for about 15 minutes .
Pat them properly dry afterward, and for the love of all things holy don't skip this part or you'll end up with mush!
Safety Reminders
Pay attention while chopping. Keep your fingers out of the way and use a sharp knife. You don't want to be heading to A&E now, do you?
step-by-step: From Zero to Zucchini Hero
Right, here’s how to nail those Crispy zucchini fries every time.
- Dredge the zucchini in flour.
- Dip them in the beaten eggs, letting any extra drip off.
- Coat the sticks in Vegan Panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder mixture. Proper coat them.
- Pop them on a baking sheet, and don't let them overcrowd the pan. Seriously, you don't want them steaming.
- Drizzle with olive oil.
Bake at 400° F ( 200° C) for 20- 25 minutes , flipping halfway through, until they are golden and crispy.
Mix the ingredients together for the Herby Feta Dip . Enjoy these Healthy zucchini fries straight away with the Herby feta dip recipe .
Pro Tips: Get That Crispy Edge
Want to take your Vegan Baked Zucchini Fries up a notch? Course you do.
- Don't Overcrowd : I know I sound like a broken record but if you overcrowd the pan, you'll end up steaming rather than baking.
- Make it ahead: You can actually prep the zucchini fries ahead of time. Coat them in breadcrumbs and keep them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking.
- Spice 'em up! Adding a pinch of cayenne pepper to the Vegan panko mix is a game changer.
So there you have it. Give my Baked zucchini fries recipe a go. You might even call them Vegan zucchini chips as well. Let me know how you get on!
Recipe Notes: Making the Most of Your Baked Zucchini Fries With Herby Dip
Right then, you've got the recipe. But every great dish has its secrets, doesn't it? Honestly, I've mucked this up a few times myself.
So, let's dive into some notes that'll turn you into a Zucchini Fry Champion !
Serving Them Up Right
Presentation matters, you know? Think restaurant style. Pile your golden crispy zucchini fries high on a platter. A sprig of dill, a lemon wedge boom! Instant upgrade.
Consider serving these healthy zucchini fries alongside some grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal. They also pair beautifully with a crisp glass of white wine.
Or even, dare I say, a cheeky G&T? And if you want another dip alongside the herby feta, try tzatziki for extra flavour.
Storage Secrets
Baked zucchini fries recipe don't tend to hang around for long, they're delicious. But if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
Be warned, they won't be as crispy the next day.
Freezing is an option, but the texture will change. If you must, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer bag.
Reheat in a 350° F ( 175° C) oven or air fryer for a few minutes to crisp them up a bit. Though, fresh is always best, innit?
Variations on a Theme
Fancy a bit of a change? For Vegan Zucchini Fries , swap the eggs for aquafaba (chickpea brine) or a plant based egg replacer.
Use vegan panko and parmesan. You can also find or make a vegan feta alternative for the dip. It's totally doable!
Seasonally, think about adding some grated lemon zest to the panko mixture in the summer. Or, in the autumn, a pinch of smoked paprika. Experiment!
Nutrition Nitty Gritty
Each serving of these Baked Zucchini Fries With Herby Dip clocks in at around 250-300 calories. They are a good source of vitamins, especially from the zucchini and herbs.
Plus, they're lower in carbs than traditional chips. Bonus! These are a good way to get your 5-a-day while still enjoying something that feels like a treat.
Plus, that herby feta dip? Packed with calcium and probiotics. Get in!
Right then, off you pop! Give these Vegan Zucchini Chips a go. Honestly, you'll wonder why you haven't made them sooner.
Get creative and most importantly enjoy yourself. If I can do it, anyone can. And remember, a bit of mess in the kitchen just means you're having fun!
Frequently Asked Questions
Help! My Baked Zucchini Fries With Herby Feta Dip are soggy. What did I do wrong?
Oh dear, soggy fries are a right pain! The most common culprit is moisture. Make sure you salt the zucchini batons and let them sit in a colander for at least 15 minutes to draw out excess water. Pat them completely dry with paper towels before breading.
Also, don't overcrowd the baking sheet that'll steam them instead of baking them. Spread them out like they're sunbathing on Brighton Beach!
Can I make these Baked Zucchini Fries With Herby Feta Dip ahead of time?
While these are best enjoyed fresh from the oven for maximum crispiness, you can prep some of the elements ahead of time. You can make the herby feta dip up to a day in advance and store it in the fridge. However, I wouldn't recommend breading the zucchini too far in advance, as the coating can get soggy.
It's a bit like trying to save a perfectly brewed cuppa it just doesn't taste the same later!
I'm veggie/vegan, can I still enjoy these Baked Zucchini Fries With Herby?
Absolutely, you can! To make these vegan, use a plant based egg replacer (or aquafaba - the liquid from a can of chickpeas) instead of eggs for the breading. Also, use vegan Parmesan cheese and panko breadcrumbs.
For the feta dip, there are some smashing plant based feta and yogurt alternatives available these days just look for them in the refrigerated section. With these simple swaps, you'll be in vegan zucchini fry heaven!
Any tips for making these Baked Zucchini Fries With Herby even crispier?
Right then, for extra crispy fries, use good quality panko breadcrumbs. They're larger and lighter than regular breadcrumbs, giving a better crunch. Also, don't be shy with the olive oil! A generous drizzle helps them brown nicely.
And make sure your oven is properly preheated a hot oven is key to crispy perfection. Finally, consider putting them under the broiler for the last minute or two, keeping a close eye to prevent burning, to finish them off.
How should I store leftover Baked Zucchini Fries With Herby Feta Dip?
If you happen to have any leftovers (unlikely, I know!), store the fries and dip separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The fries will lose some of their crispness, but you can try reheating them in a hot oven or air fryer to crisp them up a bit. The dip should last for a couple of days.
But let's be honest, leftovers rarely last long when these are around!
Crispy Baked Zucchini Fries With Herby Feta Dip
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts:
| Calories | 300 calories |
|---|---|
| Fat | 18g |
| Fiber | 3g |
