Baked Zucchini Fries
Ingredients
- 1 lb. zucchini
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan
- 1 Tbsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp salt
divided
- 2 Tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup pizza sauce
for serving
Directions
- 1
Preheat the oven to 425ºF. Slice the zucchini into matchsticks that are ½-inch wide and 3-inches long. Set the zucchini aside.
- 2
Whisk the eggs in a bowl. In a separate bowl, stir together the panko, Parmesan, Italian seasoning, and ¼ tsp salt.
- 3
Add the sliced zucchini to a large bowl. Sprinkle the all-purpose flour and remaining ¼ tsp salt over the zucchini. Toss the zucchini until they are evenly coated in flour.
- 4
Place wire cooling racks over a large baking sheet to lift the zucchini pieces and allow airflow underneath. Bread the zucchini slices by briefly dipping them in the whisked egg, letting the excess run off, then coating them in the panko-Parmesan mixture.
- 5
Place the breaded zucchini on the wire racks with a small amount of space between each piece to allow for airflow.
- 6
Bake the breaded zucchini fries for 20 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy.
- 7
Serve immediately with pizza sauce for dipping.
Baked Zucchini Fries
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About this Recipe
Tired of a zucchini surplus and craving a healthier snack or side dish that doesn't compromise on flavor? These Baked Zucchini Fries are your perfect answer, transforming that abundant summer squash into a crispy, savory delight the whole family will love.
The genius of this recipe lies in its simple yet effective coating. Using panko breadcrumbs alongside grated Parmesan creates an incredibly crunchy exterior that mimics the satisfaction of fried foods, all while being baked. It’s a smart technique that ensures your zucchini spears turn golden and crisp, not soggy, offering a lightened-up alternative without sacrificing deliciousness.
Prepare for a delightful contrast of textures: a beautifully golden, crispy crust on the outside giving way to a tender, subtly sweet zucchini interior. Each fry is seasoned with Italian herbs and a hint of salt, complemented by the savory richness of Parmesan. These baked fries are wonderfully versatile, equally at home as a light appetizer or a fresh, flavorful side dish to complement almost any meal. Their approachable nature makes them a fantastic way to enjoy garden-fresh zucchini.
Customizing these zucchini fries is incredibly easy. Feel free to experiment with different dried herbs if you don't have Italian seasoning on hand; a blend of oregano, basil, and thyme works beautifully. For an extra kick, a pinch of garlic powder or smoked paprika can elevate the flavor. While Parmesan adds a lovely salty bite, you could swap it for Pecorino Romano or even nutritional yeast for a dairy-free alternative (though the flavor profile will shift).
Serve these warm straight from the oven with a side of pizza sauce for dipping, as suggested, or your favorite marinara. They're ideal for casual weeknight dinners, game day snacks, or as a light appetizer when entertaining friends.