Description
These Air Fryer Zucchini Fries are a crispy, flavorful, and healthier alternative to traditional fried snacks. Coated in a seasoned breadcrumb and Parmesan mixture, they achieve a perfect golden crunch in the air fryer. Served with a zesty lemon garlic mayonnaise dip, they make a delicious appetizer or side dish that’s quick to prepare and sure to please.
Ingredients
Lemon Garlic Dip (Optional)
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 Tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 Tablespoon lemon zest
- 1 Tablespoon olive oil (or avocado oil)
- 1 Tablespoon chopped parsley (optional)
- 1 Tablespoon grated parmesan cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon coarse salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Zucchini Fries
- 2 medium zucchini (or 3 small)
- 3 teaspoons coarse salt (divided use)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 Tablespoon water
- 1 cup panko bread crumbs (gluten free recommended, see notes)
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup Italian breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon coarse salt (for breadcrumb mixture)
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 Tablespoons chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare Lemon Garlic Dip: In a medium bowl, combine 1 cup mayonnaise, minced 3 garlic cloves, 2 tablespoons lemon juice, 1 tablespoon lemon zest, 1 tablespoon olive oil, 1 tablespoon chopped parsley, 1 tablespoon grated parmesan cheese, 1/4 teaspoon coarse salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. Whisk until smooth. Cover and refrigerate while you prepare the zucchini fries.
- Cut Zucchini: Slice 2 medium zucchini into sticks about 3/4 inch thick and 3-4 inches long, yielding approximately 24 sticks.
- Salt Zucchini: Place zucchini sticks in a colander; sprinkle with 2 1/2 teaspoons coarse salt. Toss gently to coat and let sit for 15-30 minutes to draw out moisture.
- Prepare Egg Wash: In a bowl, whisk 2 large eggs with 1 tablespoon water until fully combined; set aside.
- Mix Breadcrumb Coating: In a shallow dish, stir together 1 cup panko bread crumbs, 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese, 1/4 cup Italian breadcrumbs, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, and 1/2 teaspoon coarse salt. Set aside.
- Preheat Air Fryer: Preheat your 6 quart air fryer to 400°F (204°C) for about 5 minutes.
- Prepare Air Fryer Basket: Lightly spray or brush the air fryer basket with olive or avocado oil to prevent sticking.
- Dry Zucchini: After salting, transfer zucchini sticks to paper towels or a clean kitchen towel; pat dry thoroughly to remove excess moisture and salt. Do not rinse.
- Coat in Flour: Place 1/2 cup all-purpose flour in a large sealable plastic bag. Add zucchini sticks, seal the bag, and shake until sticks are fully coated with flour.
- Dip in Egg Wash: Using a fork, transfer sticks a few at a time to the egg mixture, coating each stick completely.
- Coat with Breadcrumbs: Next, coat the egg-washed sticks in the prepared breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere the coating well.
- Air Fry: Arrange coated zucchini sticks in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Depending on your air fryer's size, cook in batches to avoid overcrowding. Air fry at 400°F for 5-7 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
- Serve: Garnish fries with 2 tablespoons chopped parsley if desired. Serve immediately with the chilled lemon garlic dip.
Notes
- Using gluten-free panko or breadcrumbs makes this recipe gluten-free.
- Patting zucchini dry before coating is crucial for crispiness.
- Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket to ensure even cooking and crisp texture.
- Leftover fries are best eaten immediately as they lose crispiness upon standing.
- The lemon garlic dip is optional but adds a fresh and tangy complement to the fries.
