Crispy Zucchini Fries with Parmesan (Print)

Golden, crunchy zucchini fries coated in Parmesan and Italian herbs. Baked to perfection for a crispy, healthy snack.

# Ingredient list:

→ Vegetables

01 - 2 medium zucchinis

→ Breading

02 - 2/3 cup all-purpose flour
03 - 2 large eggs
04 - 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
05 - 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

→ Seasonings

06 - 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
07 - 1/2 teaspoon dried Italian herbs
08 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
09 - 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

→ For Serving

10 - Marinara sauce or garlic aioli for serving

# Directions:

01 - Preheat oven to 425°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or apply light nonstick coating.
02 - Wash and trim zucchinis. Cut into fries approximately 1/2 inch thick and 3 inches long.
03 - Arrange three shallow bowls. Fill first with flour. Beat eggs in second bowl. In third bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, Italian herbs, salt, and black pepper.
04 - Working one piece at a time, dredge zucchini fry in flour, dip in beaten egg, then coat thoroughly in panko-Parmesan mixture.
05 - Place coated fries on prepared baking sheet with space between each piece.
06 - Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, flipping halfway through cooking, until golden and crisp.
07 - Transfer to serving platter and serve hot with marinara sauce or garlic aioli.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • These crispy little wonders give you that indulgent french fry experience without the guilt or the deep fryer splattering oil across your kitchen.
  • The combination of parmesan and herbs creates layers of flavor that elevate simple zucchini into something company-worthy, yet simple enough for a Tuesday night.
02 -
  • Salting and blotting your zucchini sticks with paper towels before breading draws out excess moisture, which is absolutely crucial for achieving maximum crispiness.
  • Flipping the fries exactly halfway through baking ensures both sides get equally golden and crisp – I learned this the hard way after serving a batch with perfectly crisp tops and soggy bottoms.
03 -
  • Use the grater with the largest holes for your Parmesan – the tiny pre-grated stuff doesnt melt properly and misses that signature cheesy flavor boost.
  • For the ultimate crispy exterior, try spritzing the breaded fries with olive oil from a mister instead of cooking spray – this gives you better control and more even coverage.