Baked Parmesan Zucchini Fries Recipe

Introduction

Baked Parmesan Zucchini Fries are a delicious and healthy alternative to traditional fries. Crispy on the outside and tender inside, they make a perfect snack or side dish that’s easy to prepare and loved by all ages.

Ingredients

• 2 medium zucchinis, cut into fry-sized sticks
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup breadcrumbs

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). In a shallow bowl, mix the grated Parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs together.
2. Step 2: Dip each zucchini stick into the cheese and breadcrumb mixture, pressing lightly so it adheres well to all sides.
3. Step 3: Place the coated zucchini sticks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, making sure they are spaced evenly to promote crisping.
4. Step 4: Bake for 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through, until the fries are golden brown and crisp.
5. Step 5: Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving hot.

Tips & Variations

• For extra flavor, add dried Italian herbs or garlic powder to the breadcrumb mixture.
• Try using panko breadcrumbs for a lighter, crispier texture.
• Serve with marinara sauce or a garlic aioli for dipping.
• To make the coating stick better, dip zucchini in beaten egg before coating with the breadcrumb mixture.

Storage

Store leftover zucchini fries in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 5-7 minutes to help restore their crispiness. Avoid microwaving as it can make them soggy.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen zucchini for this recipe?

Fresh zucchini works best because frozen zucchini tends to release excess moisture, which can make the fries soggy. If using frozen, thaw and pat dry thoroughly before coating.

How do I make the fries crispier?

Ensure the zucchini sticks aren’t crowded on the baking sheet and consider using panko breadcrumbs. Also, turning the fries halfway through baking helps them crisp evenly.

Baked Parmesan Zucchini Fries Recipe

Print Recipe

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Baked Parmesan Zucchini Fries are a crispy and flavorful twist on traditional fries, offering a healthier, oven-baked option with a savory Parmesan and breadcrumb coating. These fries make a perfect snack or side dish, combining tender zucchini with a crunchy, cheesy crust.

• Author: Mick
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

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For the Zucchini Fries

• 2 medium zucchinis, cut into sticks
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 large egg, beaten
• Cooking spray or olive oil for greasing

Instructions

1. Prepare the zucchini: Start by washing the zucchinis thoroughly and cutting them into evenly sized sticks about 3 inches long and 1/2 inch thick to ensure uniform cooking.
2. Set up the coating station: In one bowl, combine the grated Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. In a separate bowl, beat the egg until smooth.
3. Coat the zucchini sticks: Dip each zucchini stick first into the beaten egg, allowing any excess to drip off, then roll it thoroughly in the Parmesan and breadcrumb mixture to coat evenly on all sides.
4. Prepare for baking: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease with cooking spray or olive oil to prevent sticking. Arrange the coated zucchini sticks in a single layer on the baking sheet, ensuring they are not touching to promote crispiness.
5. Bake the zucchini fries: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping the fries halfway through, until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside.
6. Serve and enjoy: Remove the fries from the oven and let them cool slightly. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce, such as marinara, ranch, or a garlic aioli.

Notes

• For extra crispiness, use panko breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs.
• Lightly spray the zucchini fries with cooking spray before baking to enhance browning.
• Try adding Italian seasoning or red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture for extra flavor.
• These fries are best served immediately but can be reheated in the oven to maintain crispness.
• Gluten-free breadcrumbs can be used to make this recipe gluten-free.

Keywords: Zucchini fries, baked zucchini fries, Parmesan zucchini, healthy fries, vegetable fries, appetizer, vegetarian snack