Crispy Baked Zucchini Fries with Parmesan Garlic
Recipe Introduction: Let's Make Some Cracking Zucchini Fries!
Fancy a healthier twist on classic chips? Ever thought you could make something amazing with a humble zucchini ? Honestly, you're in for a treat! This recipe for Crispy Baked Zucchini Fries is the business.
Quick Hook
Ever wondered if you could make healthy fries ? These Zucchini Fries are cheesy, garlicky, and baked until crispy, making them a winner.
They're seriously addictive, and you can eat them guilt free with your Grilled Chicken .
Brief Overview
Zucchini , also known as courgette, is a summer squash. Making Zucchini Sticks is a simple way to enjoy it.
This recipe is super easy and takes only about 45 minutes from start to finish. It yields about 4 servings, perfect for a family snack or side dish.
Main Benefits
These Baked Zucchini Fries are a great way to sneak in some extra veggies. Plus, baking them instead of frying makes them healthier.
They're perfect for movie night or as a side dish for your next BBQ. What makes these Parmesan Zucchini Fries so special is the combination of crispy breading, cheesy Parmesan, and garlicky flavour.
You know?
Let's get started with the ingredients you'll need...
Ingredients & Equipment
Alright, let's talk kit! Making Zucchini Fries isn't rocket science, but having the right bits and bobs makes it so much easier.
Honestly, I've tried shortcuts, and they usually end in a soggy mess. Let's avoid that, yeah?
Main Ingredients for the Best Zucchini Fries Ever!
- 2 medium zucchini (about 500g ), trimmed. Pick firm ones, alright? No one likes a bendy zucchini.
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt (5g). Don't skip this! It's crucial for drawing out moisture.
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (60g). Just your regular plain flour does the trick.
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten. Free range if you can, adds a nice richness.
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (100g). Panko's the key to crispy! Regular breadcrumbs just don't compare.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (50g). Get the proper stuff, freshly grated. Trust me, it makes all the difference.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (15ml). Nothing fancy needed here.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (3g). For that irresistible Garlic Parmesan Zucchini Fries vibe.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano (1g). Adds a lovely Italian touch.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (0.5g). Seasoning is life!
Spice It Up: Seasoning Secrets
The garlic and oregano are essential. It's what makes them Parmesan Zucchini Fries so damn tasty. If you're feeling adventurous, a pinch of red pepper flakes adds a lovely kick.
For a herby twist, try some dried thyme or rosemary. Don't be afraid to experiment, you know?
If you're fresh out of oregano, Italian seasoning is a great sub. I've also used a touch of dried basil in a pinch. Honestly, anything goes!
Gear Up: Essential Equipment
You don't need loads of fancy stuff.
- Baking sheet. Crucial for those Baked Zucchini Fries .
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mat. Prevents sticking. Trust me, saves on the washing up.
- Three shallow dishes. For your breading station.
- Cheese grater. For that proper Parmesan.
- Colander. To drain the zucchini . V important!
- Kitchen towels. Gotta get that zucchini dry!
No parchment paper? A well oiled baking sheet works, but keep an eye on them to prevent sticking. No panko? Regular breadcrumbs can work, but they won't be as crispy.
This is important for achieving the ultimate Crispy Zucchini Fries Recipe . I’m still gonna say it: Panko's worth the trip to the shops!
Now you're all set! Let's get to the fun part turning those veggies into delicious Zucchini Fries .
Let's Get This Bread(crumbs): Crispy Baked Zucchini Fries
Alright, let's get cooking! Honestly, as a chef, I'm always looking for clever ways to sneak some extra veggies into meals, and these Zucchini Fries are a proper winner.
Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and ridiculously addictive. Perfect for dipping, sharing (or not!), and feeling a little less guilty about all that ketchup you're about to use.
You know?
These aren't your average chips! We're taking humble zucchini and transforming it into crispy, cheesy fries that are baked, not fried (so they're a tad healthier, yeah?).
Inspired by Italian flavors, these fries are packed with Parmesan, garlic, and herbs, making them a perfect appetizer, snack, or side dish.
Get ready to ditch the potato wedges zucchini is taking centre stage! Even a novice cook can nail these.
I promise!
Difficulty Level: Easy.
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 20- 25 minutes
Total Time: 40- 45 minutes
Serving Size: 4 servings
Prep Steps: The Mise en Place is Key
Essential mise en place: Get your stuff together! We need 2 medium zucchini , 1 tsp kosher salt , 1/2 cup all-purpose flour , 2 large eggs , 1 cup panko breadcrumbs , 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese , 1 tbsp olive oil , 1 tsp garlic powder , 1/2 tsp dried oregano , and 1/4 tsp black pepper .
Honestly, pre-measuring makes life so much easier.
Time saving organization tips: Cut the zucchini while the salt does its thing. This cuts down on the active time.
step-by-step: From Zucchini Sticks to Golden Goodness
Slice it Up: Cut the zucchini into fry-shaped sticks. Think chip shop vibes, but healthier!
Sweat it Out: Toss with 1 tsp salt and place in a colander to drain for 15- 20 minutes .
The drier the zucchini, the crispier the fries. Seriously, this is vital.
Breading Time: Dip each stick in flour, then egg, then panko mix. Press gently. Make sure they're fully coated.
Bake! : Bake at 400° F ( 200° C) for 20- 25 minutes , flipping halfway.
Cooling Zone: Let cool slightly on the baking sheet before serving. This lets them crisp up even more.
Pro Tips for Parmesan Zucchini Fries Perfection
Dry, dry, dry! I can't stress this enough. Excess moisture = soggy Sauteed Zucchini . Also, use freshly grated Parmesan.
Another thing, don't overcrowd the pan. Give the Baked Zucchini Fries space to breathe.
Serve with marinara, ranch, or even a Greek yogurt dip. Zucchini Fries Dipping Sauce options are endless. A nice bit of rocket would set it off nicely!
Recipe Notes for your Crispy Baked Zucchini Fries
Alright, let's chat about making the best Zucchini Fries ! Honestly, these Crispy Zucchini Fries are pretty foolproof. I am just sharing my insights from the recipe I reviewed.
But I've learned a few things along the way that can help you nail it.
Serving Suggestions: Get Creative with your Zucchini Sticks
First, presentation matters, right? Think about how you want to serve these Baked Zucchini Fries . Plating on a cool plate, or even in a little basket lined with paper is always a good vibe.
For dipping, marinara sauce is classic. But why not try a Zucchini Fries Dipping Sauce of garlic aioli? Oh my gosh! Grilled Chicken and a side of Parmesan Zucchini Fries would be a solid, healthy meal.
Storage Tips: Keeping your Zucchini Goodness Fresh
If you happen to have leftovers (doubtful!), keep them in the fridge. Use an airtight container. They'll stay good for about 3 days.
Reheating is easy. Just pop them back into the oven at 350° F ( 175° C) for about 5- 10 minutes.
Want to keep them even longer? Freezing is an option. Lay the baked Zucchini Fries on a baking sheet. Freeze them individually, then transfer to a freezer bag.
Reheat from frozen in the oven for the best results.
Variations: Mix it Up!
Want to make these Healthy Zucchini Fries even healthier? Use whole wheat flour. For a gluten-free version, try almond flour and gluten-free panko.
Feeling spicy? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mix for a fiery kick. If you have extra Zucchinis, you could also try Sauteed Zucchini , it is super quick and tasty.
If you can't find Parmesan cheese, Pecorino Romano would be a good shout.
Nutrition Basics: Goodness in Every Bite
Each serving packs about 200 calories. You'll also get 10 grams of protein and 3 grams of fiber. Not bad, eh? Plus, zucchini is packed with vitamins and antioxidants.
It's good for your gut, too.
Okay, you've got this! This Crispy Zucchini Fries Recipe is super simple. And it's a fun way to eat your veggies.
Get in the kitchen and create some magic! You won't regret it. These Garlic Parmesan Zucchini Fries will be your new go-to snack.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are my Zucchini Fries soggy? What can I do to make them crispy?
Soggy Zucchini Fries are a common woe, but easily fixed! The main culprit is excess moisture in the zucchini. Make sure to salt your zucchini sticks and let them drain in a colander for at least 15-20 minutes before breading.
Pat them thoroughly dry with paper towels the drier the zucchini, the crispier the fry! Also, don't overcrowd the baking sheet; give each fry some space to breathe.
Can I bake Zucchini Fries instead of frying them?
Absolutely! This recipe is designed for baking, which makes these Zucchini Fries a much healthier option. Baking at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway, gives you that lovely crispy exterior without all the extra oil. A light spray with cooking oil before baking helps them get extra golden brown.
What dipping sauces go well with Zucchini Fries?
The dipping possibilities are endless! For a classic Italian vibe, marinara sauce is a winner. Ranch dressing or garlic aioli are always crowd pleasers. For something a bit different, try a Greek yogurt dip with herbs and lemon. Even a simple dollop of ketchup is fantastic no judgement here!
Can I make Zucchini Fries gluten-free or vegan?
Yes, you can easily adapt this recipe! For gluten-free Zucchini Fries, use gluten-free all-purpose flour and gluten-free panko breadcrumbs. To make them vegan, substitute the eggs with a flax egg (1 tbsp ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tbsp water, let sit for 5 minutes) and replace the Parmesan cheese with nutritional yeast.
Sorted!
How long do leftover Zucchini Fries last, and how do I reheat them?
Leftover Zucchini Fries are best enjoyed within 1-2 days. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To reheat, the best method is to bake them again at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes to crisp them up. Microwaving is not recommended as it will make them soggy nobody wants a soggy bottom!
Crispy Baked Zucchini Fries With Parmesan Garlic
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts:
| Calories | 200 |
|---|---|
| Fat | 10g |
| Fiber | 3g |
