CRISPY BAKED ZUCCHINI FRIES

CRISPY BAKED ZUCCHINI FRIES

These crispy baked zucchini fries are a delicious and nutritious alternative to traditional fries, offering a golden, crunchy texture without the excess oil. These zucchini fries coated in a light layer of breadcrumbs and parmesan, these oven-baked fries deliver a savoury, cheesy bite with every piece. The natural sweetness of zucchini pairs beautifully with the crispy coating, making them an ideal snack, appetiser, or side dish. Perfect for dipping into marinara sauce, garlic aioli, or a creamy ranch dressing, these zucchini fries are a crowd-pleaser at any gathering. Their simple preparation and minimal ingredients make them an easy go-to recipe for a healthier take on comfort food. Whether you’re looking for a way to enjoy more vegetables or need a quick, crispy snack, these zucchini fries are a satisfying and flavourful option that fits any occasion.

RECIPE CATEGORY

Appetisers, Snack, Side, Hors D’Oeuvres

SERVING SIZE

1

CUISINE

Italian, Mediterranean, American

PREPARATION/TECHNIQUES

5 ingredients or less, Bake, Prepared in Advance, Roast

OCCASION/HOLIDAY

Anniversary, Birthday, Christmas, Easter, Engagement Party, Fall, Family Gathering, Fourth of July, Graduation, Halloween, Holiday Entertaining, Party, Picnic, Poker Night, Super Bowl, Thanksgiving, Wedding

SPECIAL CONSIDERATION/DIETARY CONCERNS

Healthy, Low Cholesterol, Low Fat, Low Sodium, Quick & Easy, Vegetarian

DISH TYPE

Appetiser, Side Dish, Finger Food, Snack

INGREDIENTS OF CRISPY BAKED ZUCCHINI FRIES

• ½ small zucchini, cut into sticks

• 10g breadcrumbs

• 5g grated parmesan

• ½ tsp olive oil

• Salt and pepper to taste

FULL NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION

• Calories: 80

• Protein: 4g

• Carbohydrates: 7g

• Fibre: 1g

• Sugars: 1g

• Fat: 5g

• Saturated Fat: 5g

• Sodium: 100mg

PREPARATION FOR CRISPY BAKED ZUCCHINI FRIES

• Preheat The Oven: Set your oven to 200°C (400°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

• Prepare The Zucchini: Wash and dry the zucchini, then cut it into thin sticks about the size of fries.

• Coat With Oil: Place the zucchini sticks in a bowl and drizzle with olive oil, tossing to coat evenly.

• Mix The Coating: In a separate bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, parmesan, salt and pepper.

• Coat The Zucchini: Roll each zucchini stick in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure the coating sticks.

• Arrange On The Baking Sheet: Spread the coated zucchini fries in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.

• Bake: Place in the oven and bake for 15-18 minutes, turning once halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.

• Serve Immediately: Enjoy hot with your favourite dipping sauce.

PREP TIME

5 minutes

COOKING TIME

15-18 minutes

TIPS FOR CRISPY BAKED ZUCCHINI FRIES

• Use A Wire Rack: Placing the zucchini fries on a wire rack over the baking sheet allows heat to circulate, making them crispier.

• Don’t Overcrowd The Pan: Arrange the fries in a single layer to prevent steaming and ensure even browning.

• Double-Coating For Extra Crunch: Dip the zucchini in a beaten egg before rolling in the breadcrumb mixture for a thicker crust.

• Serve Immediately: Zucchini fries are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven for the crispiest texture.

• Experiment With Seasonings: Add garlic powder, paprika, or Italian seasoning to the breadcrumb mixture for extra flavour.

• Flip Halfway Through Baking: This helps achieve an evenly crispy texture on all sides.

VARIATIONS

• Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed almond flour for a crispy, wheat-free coating.

• Spicy Zucchini Fries: Add cayenne pepper or chilli flakes to the breadcrumb mixture for a kick.

• Cheesy Twist: Mix extra shredded parmesan into the coating for a more pronounced cheesy flavour.

• Low-Carb Option: Replace breadcrumbs with finely crushed pork rinds for a keto-friendly alternative.

• Air Fryer Method: Cook in an air fryer at 200°C (400°F) for 10-12 minutes, shaking halfway through for even crispness.

• Dairy-Free Version: Skip the parmesan and use a vegan cheese alternative or nutritional yeast for added flavour.

PREPPING AND STORAGE

• Refrigeration: Store leftover zucchini fries in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for 5-7 minutes to crisp them up.

• Freezing: Not recommended, as zucchini holds water and will become mushy when thawed.

• Make-Ahead Option: Prep the zucchini sticks and breadcrumb mixture in advance, then coat and bake just before serving for the best texture.