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When I want something crunchy but light, air-fried zucchini fries totally hit the spot. They’re quick enough for busy nights, awesome as an appetizer or a simple lunch, and my family can’t get enough.
The very first batch I made disappeared in minutes. My kids went wild for them—they barely made it off the pan before everyone had eaten them.
Tasty Ingredients
- Dried thyme or rosemary: Brightens up the fries for something a little herby. Go for the freshest dried herbs you can find.
- Chili powder and paprika: Bring a nice kick. Try smoked paprika for a deeper flavor.
- Breadcrumbs: Make the outside golden and crunchy. Use panko if you love it extra crisp.
- Garlic powder: An essential boost in that garlicky coating—pick a good quality one for max flavor.
- Finely grated Parmesan cheese: Salty and rich, especially if you grate it yourself right before using.
- Black pepper: Levels out the zucchini’s flavor with a little heat.
- Salt: Pulls out the moisture and amps up the taste. Kosher works best.
- Olive oil or cooking spray: Makes everything crispy and keeps nothing stuck. Go super light if you’re trying to cut down the calories.
- Fresh zucchini: Main player here—choose medium ones that aren’t banged up or squishy.
Easy Step by Step
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Pull those fries out as soon as they’re golden. Seriously best when piping hot and dunked in your favorite dip.
- Air Fry the Zucchini:
- Set slices in a single layer (no piling up!) Cook for ten to twelve minutes. Give them a shake halfway so they crisp all over.
- Season and Toss:
- Splash with just a bit of oil or give them a spray. Add black pepper and your seasoning choice—herby, spicy, or garlicky parmesan. Get every single piece nice and coated.
- Salt and Drain:
- Throw some salt on and let the zucchini sit ten to fifteen minutes. Pat dry with towels—don’t skip this or they'll go soggy.
- Prep the Zucchini:
- Get those zucchinis washed and dried. Cut them up into long strips or round slices. Try to keep the sizes similar for even cooking.
- Preheat the Air Fryer:
- Start the air fryer at three seventy five Fahrenheit for three to five minutes. It needs to be hot so the fries start sizzling right away.
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I love loading these up with fresh garlic and a little real Parmesan. Seriously reminds me of summer mornings at my aunt’s—zucchini everywhere, picked fresh and smelling amazing.
Keeping It Fresh
Pop leftover fries in a sealed container in the fridge. Best to eat them right away, but you can crisp them back up in the air fryer for a few minutes if needed. Skip the microwave unless you want soggy fries.
Swaps and Alternatives
No Parmesan? Go for nutritional yeast if you don’t do dairy. Running low on breadcrumbs? Crush some rice crackers or toss in cornmeal for new texture. Have fun with different spice combos whenever you feel like it.
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Serving Ideas
Serve these fries with cool Greek yogurt dip, some sharp marinara, or just hit them with lemon juice. They make a great side next to grilled chicken or salmon, and you can hand them out at parties, too.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → What’s the secret to really crispy zucchini fries in an air fryer?
Salt your cut-up zucchini to pull out extra water, pat every piece super dry, then coat them. Lay them out flat and don't crowd the air fryer tray. That way, you’ll get the crunch you’re after.
- → What can I use to coat my zucchini fries?
Mash up some garlic powder, parmesan cheese, and breadcrumbs for a little kick. Shake in rosemary, paprika, or chili flakes if you want an herby or spicy bite.
- → Can these fries be made without any oil?
Yep—just spritz the zucchini with a quick shot of cooking spray so the seasoning sticks, then air fry as usual for yummy, lighter fries.
- → How do I keep and reheat leftover zucchini fries?
Once cool, seal them up in the fridge. Pop them back into your air fryer at about 300°F for a couple of minutes to bring back that crunch.
- → What dipping sauces go well with these fries?
You can dunk them in ranch, marinara, or even a cool yogurt dip. Grab what you love most for extra flavor on the side.