Easy Air Fryer Zucchini Fries are a crispy, golden, and delicious snack or side dish that you can whip up in no time. With a crunchy panko and parmesan coating and a tender zucchini center, these fries deliver incredible flavor and texture without the guilt of deep frying. Pair them with your favorite dipping sauces for the ultimate appetizer or healthy snack!

Why You’ll Love Easy Air Fryer Zucchini Fries

Imagine biting into a perfectly crispy zucchini fry—golden and crunchy on the outside, yet tender and flavorful on the inside. These Air Fryer Zucchini Fries are so satisfying, you might just forget they’re made with a vegetable!

They’re easy to prepare, healthier than traditional fried options, and packed with delicious seasonings like parmesan, garlic powder, and parsley. Whether you’re looking for a fun snack for kids, a healthy appetizer, or a creative way to enjoy zucchini, this recipe is sure to hit the spot.

What Are Air Fryer Zucchini Fries?

Air Fryer Zucchini Fries are zucchini strips coated in a crispy breading made with panko breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, and flavorful seasonings. They’re cooked in an air fryer, which uses hot air to create a golden, crunchy coating without the need for excessive oil.

These fries are a great alternative to traditional potato fries or deep-fried snacks. They’re light, satisfying, and perfect for dipping into marinara, ranch, or aioli. Plus, they’re an excellent way to sneak more veggies into your meals!

Ingredients for Easy Air Fryer Zucchini Fries

Here’s what you’ll need to make these crispy, golden fries:

• 1 large zucchini
• ½ cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• ¼ cup grated parmesan cheese
• ½ teaspoon dried parsley
• 2 teaspoons garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon sea salt
• ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
• 2 eggs, whisked

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	150
Protein	6g
Fat	4g
Carbohydrates	20g
Fiber	2g
Sodium	300mg

Step-by-Step Instructions for Easy Air Fryer Zucchini Fries

1. Prepare the Coating Mixtures

• In a medium bowl, mix the flour with half of the garlic powder, parsley, sea salt, and black pepper.
• In a second bowl, whisk the eggs and season lightly with salt and pepper.
• In a third bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, and the remaining garlic powder, parsley, and seasonings.

2. Slice and Prep the Zucchini

• Slice off the ends of the zucchini and discard them. Cut the zucchini in half lengthwise, then cut each half in half again widthwise to make four sections.
• Slice each section into strips about ¼ to ½ inch thick, creating “fry” shapes.
• Sprinkle the zucchini strips with a little fine-grain salt and let them rest for 5 minutes. This helps draw out moisture, ensuring crispy fries. Dab off the excess moisture with a paper towel.

3. Bread the Zucchini Strips

• Working one piece at a time, dredge each zucchini strip in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess.
• Dip the zucchini strip into the egg mixture, letting the excess drip off.
• Roll the zucchini in the panko and parmesan mixture, pressing gently to coat evenly.
• Place the breaded zucchini strips on a plate. Let them sit for a few minutes while the air fryer preheats to help the breading adhere better.

4. Cook in the Air Fryer

• Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Once preheated, lightly mist the air fryer basket with oil to prevent sticking.
• Arrange the breaded zucchini fries in a single layer in the basket. Lightly mist the tops of the fries with oil for extra crispiness.
• Air fry the zucchini fries for 8-10 minutes, or until the outside is golden and crispy. Shake the basket halfway through cooking to ensure even browning.

5. Serve and Enjoy

• Remove the zucchini fries from the air fryer and serve immediately while they’re hot and crispy.
• Pair with your favorite dipping sauces like marinara, ranch, or garlic aioli.

Why This Recipe Works

1. Crispy and Flavorful Coating

The combination of panko breadcrumbs and parmesan cheese creates a perfectly crunchy exterior, while the garlic powder and parsley add a burst of flavor.

2. Healthier Alternative

Cooking the zucchini fries in the air fryer drastically reduces the amount of oil needed, making this recipe a lighter and healthier option.

3. Easy to Make

With simple ingredients and a straightforward process, these zucchini fries come together quickly and easily.

Tips for Making the Best Air Fryer Zucchini Fries

1. Slice Evenly: Cutting the zucchini into uniform strips ensures even cooking.
2. Don’t Skip the Salt Step: Letting the zucchini sit with a sprinkle of salt helps draw out moisture, which is key for crispy fries.
3. Use Fresh Zucchini: Fresher zucchini will have better texture and flavor.
4. Preheat the Air Fryer: This ensures the fries start cooking immediately for a crispy coating.
5. Don’t Overcrowd the Basket: Cook the fries in batches if necessary to allow hot air to circulate and crisp up the coating.

Serving Suggestions for Air Fryer Zucchini Fries

• With Marinara Sauce: A classic pairing that’s always a hit.
• With Ranch Dressing: The creamy, tangy flavor of ranch complements the savory fries perfectly.
• As a Side Dish: Serve alongside grilled chicken, burgers, or pasta for a delicious side.
• With Garlic Aioli: A rich and garlicky dipping sauce adds extra indulgence to the fries.
• For a Snack Platter: Add the fries to a platter with veggie sticks, cheese, and crackers for an easy appetizer.

FAQs About Easy Air Fryer Zucchini Fries

1. Can I use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs?

Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour and use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs to make this recipe gluten-free.

2. Do I need to peel the zucchini?

No, there’s no need to peel the zucchini. The skin adds texture and nutrients and holds up well during cooking.

3. Can I make these fries vegan?

To make this recipe vegan, use plant-based milk instead of eggs and replace parmesan cheese with nutritional yeast or a dairy-free parmesan alternative.

4. How do I store leftover zucchini fries?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat them in the air fryer at 350°F for 3-4 minutes to restore their crispiness.

5. Can I bake the zucchini fries instead of air frying?

Yes, you can bake them in the oven at 400°F for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through for even browning.

6. What other spices can I use?

Feel free to experiment with paprika, chili powder, Italian seasoning, or cayenne pepper for added flavor.

Conclusion: Try Easy Air Fryer Zucchini Fries Today!

Easy Air Fryer Zucchini Fries are a simple and delicious way to enjoy a healthy snack or side dish. With their crispy coating, tender center, and bold seasoning, these fries are perfect for dipping and sharing. Plus, they’re quick to make and much healthier than traditional fried snacks.

Print