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Craving salty fries but wanna keep things light? Try these crunchy zucchini fries. They're lighter than your usual fries and nail that snap with barely any oil. I love tossing them in the air fryer since there’s barely any cleanup and they're crazy quick.
Back when summer zucchini took over my fridge I first whipped these up. Everyone pounced! Now I double the batch because they're always gone so fast.
Irresistible Ingredients
- Crunchy breadcrumbs: Bring lots of texture and help lock in flavor Use panko if you like extra crunch or pick fine dry ones for classic fries
- Hot chili powder or mild paprika: Sprinkle in for smoky or spicy fries Freshly ground spices really wake up the taste
- Parmesan (or skip it): Adds golden color and a salty kick Parmigiano Reggiano is my fave but it's not a must
- Juicy zucchini: Go with firm shiny zucchini so your fries keep their shape and don't turn soggy
- Zesty garlic powder rosemary or thyme: Dry herbs and garlic really pop here Sniff your herbs first to make sure they're fragrant
- Olive oil (or cooking spray): Use just enough for the coating to stick and give some crunch Extra virgin tastes best
- Simple salt and pepper: Gives flavor a boost and helps everything taste brighter Try sea salt if you're feeling fancy
Easy Steps to Make It
- Serve and Dip:
- Pull out fries while they're sizzling and plate up Try with your fave dip like marinara or even yogurt and eat them fresh
- Air Fry Until Gold:
- Pop the fries into your hot air fryer basket in a single not touching layer Heat for about twelve minutes at three seventy five Give them a good shake halfway through so all sides get crispy and golden
- Toss with Spices and Breadcrumbs:
- Coat your sliced up zucchini in oil or spray then roll in all those spices herby bits cheese, and breadcrumbs Make sure they’re all lightly but fully covered
- Kick Out Extra Water:
- Sprinkle on salt then let your zucchini hang out on a strainer or rack for at least fifteen minutes Dab the pieces super dry with paper towels so they don’t get mushy
- Cut Up the Zucchini:
- After washing dry your zucchini well then slice into slim long sticks or go for fat rounds for more of a chips vibe Thinner pieces crisp better
- Heat Up Your Air Fryer:
- Let it warm up to three seventy five Fahrenheit at least three minutes before starting This makes fries turn golden fast
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I always finish these off with parmesan straight from the grater since it goes melty and rich. The family always lines up at the counter, waiting for the beep so they can grab the first hot fry!
Keeping Them Fresh
Let your fries cool all the way before putting away so they don’t get wet and floppy. Store in an airtight box with a paper towel in the fridge for up to three days. To bring back the crunch just pop 'em in the air fryer for a couple minutes.
Swaps & Variations
Leave out the cheese or swap for nutritional yeast for dairy free fries. For gluten free try GF breadcrumbs or skip them and just coat with cheese and spices. You can also sub in avocado oil or try using herbes de Provence for a French flavor.
How To Serve
They’re tasty with ketchup, garlicky mayo or something spicy like a yogurt dip. I also love them next to grilled chicken or stuffed inside a wrap with greens.
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Story & Origins
You’ll find fried zucchini in loads of Mediterranean homes, but tossing them in the air fryer is the easy modern spin. It’s a handy trick when you’ve got loads of fresh zucchini at the peak of summer.
Common Recipe Questions
- → How do I keep zucchini fries crunchy in the air fryer?
After you slice and salt the zucchini, dry them off really well—getting that moisture off helps them crisp up a lot more.
- → What seasoning options work best for zucchini fries?
Try tossing them with chili seasoning, dried herbs like thyme and rosemary, or even cheesy garlic parmesan—they all taste great with zucchini.
- → How long should I cook zucchini fries in the air fryer?
Set the air fryer to 375°F and cook the fries for about 10 to 12 minutes. Shake the basket halfway—pull them out when they're golden and crunchy.
- → Can I make zucchini fries without added oil?
You totally can! Just skip the oil or spritz a tiny bit of cooking spray for lighter fries, though they might not be quite as crispy.
- → What dipping sauces pair well with zucchini fries?
These are awesome with ranch, spicy aioli, classic marinara, or even Greek yogurt-based dips for a fresh twist.
- → How do I reheat air-fried zucchini fries?
Pop them back in the air fryer at 300°F for two to three minutes. They'll crisp up again and won't get soggy.