For a delicious, crunchy snack or side dish that’s both healthy and indulgent, look no further than Crispy Parmesan Zucchini Fries. These zucchini fries are baked, not fried, and coated with flavorful Parmesan cheese and crispy panko breadcrumbs. Whether you serve them with ranch dressing for dipping or enjoy them on their own, these zucchini fries are sure to become a crowd favorite. Perfect for a snack, appetizer, or side dish, they’re a fantastic way to get more veggies into your diet while still satisfying your craving for something crispy and cheesy!
Ingredients
- 3 small zucchinis
- 2 eggs
- 1 pinch salt
- Ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 cups Japanese panko bread crumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Ranch dressing, for serving
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Zucchini
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
- Wash the zucchinis and trim off the ends. Cut each zucchini in half lengthwise, then slice each half into fry-sized sticks (about 3-4 inches long and ½ inch thick).
- Pat the zucchini sticks dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture. This will help the breading stick better and give the fries a crispier texture.
Step 2: Set Up Breading Station
- In a shallow bowl, whisk together the eggs with a pinch of salt and ground black pepper.
- In another bowl, combine the panko bread crumbs and grated Parmesan cheese.
Step 3: Bread the Zucchini Fries
- Dip each zucchini stick into the egg mixture, making sure it’s fully coated.
- Then, dredge the zucchini in the panko and Parmesan mixture, pressing lightly to ensure the breadcrumbs stick to all sides.
- Place the breaded zucchini fries on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer, leaving some space between each fry for even cooking.
Step 4: Bake the Zucchini Fries
- Bake the zucchini fries in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Flip the fries halfway through the baking time to ensure even browning.
- Once the fries are crispy and golden, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly.
Step 5: Serve
- Serve the crispy Parmesan zucchini fries immediately with a side of ranch dressing for dipping.
- For an extra burst of flavor, sprinkle with a little more grated Parmesan and freshly ground black pepper before serving.
Conclusion
These Crispy Parmesan Zucchini Fries are a fantastic way to transform simple zucchinis into a crunchy, cheesy treat. Baked to perfection with a crispy panko-Parmesan coating, they make an ideal healthy alternative to traditional fries. Whether served as a snack, side dish, or party appetizer, these zucchini fries are sure to impress and disappear quickly! Don’t forget the ranch dressing for dipping—it’s the perfect complement to these irresistible bites.