Baked Zucchini Fries
Ingredients
- For zucchini fries
- Non-stick cooking spray
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup finely grated Parmesan
- 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- Pinch of cayenne pepper
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup milk
- 3 medium zucchini
trimmed, quartered lengthwise and cut into 3-inch-long batons
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- For tomato dipping sauce
- 1/2 cup marinated roasted tomatoes
drained
- 1 garlic clove
- 1 tablespoon finely grated Parmesan
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
Directions
- 1
Preheat the oven to 425 degrees F.
- 2
Place a wire rack in a sheet pan. Grease the rack with non-stick cooking spray.
- 3
In a large bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, 1/4 cup Parmesan, oregano, thyme, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, 1 teaspoon kosher salt and 1/2 black pepper.
- 4
In a medium bowl, whisk together the egg and milk.
- 5
Toss the zucchini with the flour shaking off the excess. Dip each zucchini baton into the egg-milk mixture and then into the panko crumbs. Place the zucchini on the wire rack.
- 6
Bake the zucchini fries for 18-20 minutes until they are golden on the outside, but are still a bit crisp.
- 7
For the tomato dipping sauce, puree the tomatoes, garlic, 1 tablespoon Parmesan, 1/2 teaspoon pepper and olive oil.
Baked Zucchini Fries
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About this Recipe
Craving a healthier, guilt-free alternative to traditional fried snacks? These Baked Zucchini Fries deliver all the crispy satisfaction you desire, proving that wholesome can be utterly delicious.
Why This Recipe Works
This recipe shines by harnessing the power of panko breadcrumbs to create an exceptionally light and crisp coating that stands up beautifully to baking. Combined with finely grated Parmesan cheese and a savory blend of dried oregano, thyme, garlic, and onion powder, each zucchini baton is infused with robust flavor. A hint of cayenne pepper adds a subtle warmth, elevating these beyond mere vegetable sticks into something truly addictive.
What makes these fries special is the way the seasoned panko crust transforms humble zucchini into a delightful texture contrast. You'll experience a wonderfully crispy exterior giving way to a tender, subtly sweet zucchini interior. The flavor profile is savory and aromatic, with a gentle kick that invites you to reach for another. Complementing the fries is a bright, tangy, and rich dipping sauce crafted from marinated roasted tomatoes, fresh garlic, and olive oil, adding a gourmet touch that ties everything together.
Customization & Variations
Feel free to experiment with the cheese; Pecorino Romano could offer a sharper, saltier note than Parmesan. You can easily adjust the spice level by increasing or omitting the cayenne pepper. For an herb garden twist, swap the dried herbs for a teaspoon of fresh, finely chopped rosemary or parsley in the breadcrumb mix. To make the dipping sauce even spicier, add a pinch of red pepper flakes with the roasted tomatoes.
These Baked Zucchini Fries are perfect as a light appetizer, a satisfying snack, or a vibrant side dish to almost any meal. Serve them hot, perhaps alongside a simple grilled protein or a fresh green salad, for a well-rounded and delightful experience.