Zucchini fries

Zucchini fries—what a great, healthier twist on traditional fries! They’re crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and packed with flavor. Whether you’re looking for a fun snack, side dish, or a lighter alternative to regular fries, these zucchini fries are a total winner. Here’s a simple and tasty recipe to make them.

---

Crispy Zucchini Fries

Ingredients:

• 2 medium zucchini (about 8–10 inches long)

• 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch)

• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 1 tsp garlic powder

• 1/2 tsp onion powder

• 1/2 tsp dried oregano (or Italian seasoning)

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• 2 large eggs

• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (for dredging)

• Olive oil spray (for baking)

For dipping (optional):

• Marinara sauce or ranch dressing

---

Instructions:

1. Prep the Zucchini:

   • Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).

   • Wash the zucchini and slice them into matchstick-shaped fries (about 1/4 to 1/2 inch thick). Pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.

2. Make the Breading Station:

   • In a shallow bowl, whisk the eggs.

   • In another shallow bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, salt, and pepper.

   • In a third shallow bowl, place the flour.

3. Bread the Zucchini:

   • Dredge each zucchini stick in the flour, coating it lightly. Then dip it into the egg, followed by the breadcrumb mixture, pressing lightly to make sure it sticks. Repeat for all zucchini fries.

4. Bake:

   • Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with olive oil spray.

   • Place the breaded zucchini fries in a single layer on the sheet, making sure they aren’t overcrowded (this helps them crisp up).

   • Spray the tops of the fries lightly with olive oil spray.

   • Bake for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they’re golden brown and crispy.

5. Serve:

   • Serve your crispy zucchini fries hot, with marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or your favorite dipping sauce on the side.

---

Pro Tips:

• For extra crispiness: You can also add some cornmeal to the breadcrumb mixture or use a mixture of half panko, half grated Parmesan for even more texture.

• Air fryer option: If you have an air fryer, you can cook these at 375°F (190°C) for 10–12 minutes, flipping them halfway through for even crispiness.

---

💡 Variation: Try adding a little lemon zest or fresh parsley on top after baking for a fresh, bright flavor!

Do you plan to dip them in something classic like marinara or try a twist, like ranch or garlic aioli?