Air Fryer Zucchini Fries Recipe

Zucchinis: Fresh zucchinis cut into fry shapes are the main ingredient for this recipe.

Panko breadcrumbs: These breadcrumbs are lighter and crispier than regular breadcrumbs, providing a perfect crunch.

Parmesan cheese: Grated parmesan adds a savory and cheesy flavor to the fries.

Garlic powder: This seasoning adds a subtle garlic flavor to the breadcrumb mixture.

Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that enhances the overall flavor of the fries.

Eggs: Beaten eggs help the breadcrumb mixture adhere to the zucchini fries.

Salt: Used to season the fries to taste.

Pepper: Adds a touch of heat and enhances the overall flavor.

When preparing zucchini fries for the air fryer, ensure that the zucchini is cut into uniform pieces. This helps them cook evenly and achieve a consistent crispiness. Additionally, after dipping the zucchini in the beaten eggs, let any excess egg drip off before coating with the breadcrumb mixture. This prevents the coating from becoming too thick and ensures a lighter, crunchier texture.

• zucchinis - Substitute with yellow squash: Yellow squash has a similar texture and mild flavor, making it a good alternative for zucchini fries.

• panko breadcrumbs - Substitute with crushed cornflakes: Crushed cornflakes provide a similar crunch and can be a gluten-free option if needed.

• grated parmesan cheese - Substitute with nutritional yeast: Nutritional yeast offers a cheesy flavor and is a great vegan alternative.

• garlic powder - Substitute with onion powder: Onion powder provides a different but complementary flavor that can enhance the taste of the fries.

• italian seasoning - Substitute with herbes de Provence: Herbes de Provence offers a similar blend of herbs that can provide a slightly different but equally delicious flavor profile.

• beaten eggs - Substitute with flaxseed meal and water mixture: A mixture of flaxseed meal and water can act as a vegan binding agent similar to eggs.

• salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce can add a salty and umami flavor, though it will also add moisture, so use sparingly.

• pepper - Substitute with cayenne pepper: Cayenne pepper can add a bit of heat and spice, offering a different but exciting flavor twist.

• Allow the zucchini fries to cool completely before storing. This prevents condensation, which can make them soggy.

• Transfer the cooled fries to an airtight container. If stacking, place a sheet of parchment paper between layers to maintain crispiness.

• Store the container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For best results, reheat in the air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 3-5 minutes to restore their crunch.

• To freeze, arrange the cooled zucchini fries on a baking sheet in a single layer. This prevents them from sticking together.

• Place the baking sheet in the freezer for about 1-2 hours, or until the fries are frozen solid.

• Transfer the frozen fries to a freezer-safe bag or container, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. Label with the date.

• Store in the freezer for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, reheat directly from frozen in the air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 5-7 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.

• Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover zucchini fries in a single layer in the basket. Air fry for 3-5 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until they are heated through and crispy again.

• For a quick oven method, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread the zucchini fries on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 5-7 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are warmed and regain their crispiness.

• If you prefer using a skillet, heat a small amount of olive oil over medium heat. Add the zucchini fries in a single layer and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until they are heated through and crispy.

• For a microwave option, place the zucchini fries on a microwave-safe plate lined with a paper towel. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, checking halfway through. Note that this method may result in less crispy fries.

• To use a toaster oven, preheat it to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the zucchini fries on the toaster oven tray in a single layer. Toast for 5-7 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are hot and crispy.

• Air fryer: This is the main appliance used to cook the zucchini fries, ensuring they become golden and crispy.

• Mixing bowl: Used to combine the breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning.

• Knife: Essential for cutting the zucchinis into fry shapes.

• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface to cut the zucchinis.

• Measuring cups: Used to measure out the panko breadcrumbs and grated parmesan cheese accurately.

• Measuring spoons: Used to measure the garlic powder and Italian seasoning.

• Whisk: Used to beat the eggs until they are well combined.

• Tongs: Helpful for dipping the zucchini fries into the beaten eggs and then into the breadcrumb mixture without making a mess.

• Air fryer basket: The part of the air fryer where the zucchini fries are placed in a single layer for cooking.

• Shaker: Used to shake the air fryer basket halfway through cooking to ensure even crisping.

• Serving plate: Used to serve the zucchini fries immediately after they are cooked.

Pre-cut zucchini: Slice the zucchini into fries ahead of time and store them in the fridge to save prep time.

Use pre-grated cheese: Opt for pre-grated parmesan cheese to skip the grating step.

Batch coating: Coat multiple zucchini fries at once by using a large mixing bowl for the breadcrumb mixture.

Line the basket: Use parchment paper or an air fryer liner to make cleanup faster.

Preheat the air fryer: Ensure the air fryer is preheated to save cooking time and achieve even crispiness.