Description
Crispy, golden Parmesan Zucchini Fries bring Mediterranean zest to classic snacking, elevating simple vegetables into an irresistible appetizer. Cheese-coated zucchini strips offer you a healthier alternative to traditional fries that crackle with flavor and nutrition.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 2 medium zucchini
- ½ cup breadcrumbs (Panko)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 large eggs
Seasoning Ingredients:
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Dipping Sauces:
- Cooking spray
- Marinara sauce
- Ranch dressing
- Garlic aioli
Instructions
- Warm the oven to a high temperature of 425F (220C), ensuring a hot environment for crispy results. Cover a baking sheet with parchment paper and apply a light mist of cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Craft a flavorful coating by combining breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, aromatic garlic powder, smoky paprika, and a pinch of salt and black pepper in a shallow mixing vessel.
- Transform zucchini into elegant fry-like strips by first dipping each piece into whisked eggs, creating a sticky surface that allows the seasoned breadcrumb mixture to cling perfectly. Gently press the coating onto the vegetable to ensure maximum coverage.
- Carefully arrange the coated zucchini on the prepared baking sheet, maintaining a single layer to promote even browning. Lightly mist with additional cooking spray to enhance the potential for a golden, crisp exterior.
- Slide the baking sheet into the preheated oven and roast for 20-25 minutes. Midway through cooking, flip the zucchini fries to guarantee uniform crispness and a beautiful golden-brown color on all sides.
- Once completed, remove from the oven and let the zucchini fries rest for a moment, allowing the coating to set and maintain its delightful crunch before serving.
Notes
- Experiment with different cheese varieties like pecorino or asiago for unique flavor profiles that complement the zucchini’s mild taste.
- Swap regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives like almond flour or crushed rice crackers to make the recipe celiac-friendly and lower in carbs.
- Pat zucchini strips thoroughly dry before coating to ensure maximum crispiness and prevent soggy fries, using a clean kitchen towel or paper towels.
- Serve immediately after baking to maintain the perfect crunch, as these fries tend to lose their crispy texture when they cool down.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Snacks, Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 140
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 300 mg
- Fat: 6 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 16 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 7 g
- Cholesterol: 70 mg