Looking for a snack that’s both crunchy and tasty? I’ve got the perfect solution: Baked Zucchini Fries! These fries are easy to make and full of flavor. They are a great way to enjoy veggies without sacrificing taste. Let me show you how to whip up these crispy delights that your whole family will love. Get ready to impress your taste buds with this simple and delicious recipe!
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
To make crispy baked zucchini fries, you will need:
– 3 medium zucchinis, trimmed and sliced into thin strips
– 1 cup breadcrumbs (opt for panko for an extra crispy texture)
– 1/2 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste
– 2 large eggs, beaten until frothy
– Olive oil spray for light coating
Measurements and Preparation
For this recipe, start by washing the zucchinis. Trim both ends off, then slice them into thin strips. The thinner you cut them, the crispier they will become. Next, gather your other ingredients. Measure out the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and spices. Combine them in a bowl. This mixture will coat the zucchini and give it flavor.
In another bowl, beat the eggs until they are frothy. This will help the breadcrumbs stick to the zucchini properly. It’s key to ensure you coat each strip well, so they turn out crispy after baking.
Nutritional Information
Each serving of baked zucchini fries is about 150 calories. You will also get:
– 8g of protein
– 10g of carbs
– 8g of fat
These fries are a great way to enjoy a healthy snack. They are low in calories but high in flavor. Enjoy these fries with your favorite dipping sauce for added taste. You can find the full recipe and guide to make them perfectly crispy.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepping the Oven and Baking Sheet
First, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high heat makes the fries crisp. While the oven heats up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This helps prevent the fries from sticking.
Combining Dry Ingredients
Next, grab a large mixing bowl. Add the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix these dry ingredients well. This step ensures each fry gets uniform flavor.
Dredging the Zucchini Strips
Now, set up a dredging station. Pour the beaten eggs into one bowl. In another bowl, place the breadcrumb mixture. Take a zucchini strip and dip it into the egg. Let any extra egg drip off. Then, coat the strip with the breadcrumb mix. Make sure every inch is covered for the best crunch.
Baking for Optimal Crispiness
Arrange the coated zucchini fries on the baking sheet. Leave space between each fry to help them cook evenly. Lightly spray the tops with olive oil. This adds a nice golden color while baking. Place the sheet in the oven for 20-25 minutes. Halfway through, flip the fries for even crispiness. Once they turn golden brown, take them out and let them cool a bit. Enjoy your crispy snack! For the full recipe, check above.
Tips & Tricks
Achieving Maximum Crispiness
To make your zucchini fries super crispy, follow these steps. First, slice the zucchinis thinly. Thin strips help with even cooking and crisping. Next, use panko breadcrumbs instead of regular ones. Panko gives a great crunch. When coating, shake off excess egg. This way, the coating sticks better. Lastly, space the fries out on the baking sheet. If they touch, they may steam instead of bake.
Serving Suggestions
I love serving baked zucchini fries as a fun snack. You can place them in a tall glass or cone. This makes them look fancy! Pair them with a zesty marinara sauce for dipping. A creamy ranch dip also works well. You can even try spicy ketchup if you like heat. Serve these fries at parties or game days for a hit!
Flavor Enhancements and Seasoning Options
You can spice things up with different seasonings. Try adding Italian herbs like oregano or basil to the breadcrumb mix. For a kick, add some cayenne pepper or chili powder. If you love cheese, mix in some grated Parmesan with the breadcrumbs. Experiment with flavors to find your favorite. The options are endless! For the full recipe, check the section above.
Variations
Vegan Baked Zucchini Fries
You can easily make these fries vegan. Replace the eggs with a mix of ground flaxseed and water. Use 1 tablespoon of flaxseed and 2.5 tablespoons of water for each egg. Let this sit for a few minutes until it thickens. This will help the breadcrumbs stick. You can also skip the Parmesan cheese or use a vegan cheese alternative.
Gluten-Free Options
For a gluten-free version, choose gluten-free breadcrumbs. Many brands offer great options. You can make your own by blending gluten-free bread. Just dry it out in the oven first. Ensure all other ingredients, like spices, are gluten-free. This way, everyone can enjoy these tasty fries!
Different Spices and Seasonings
Get creative with spices! Add cayenne for heat or Italian herbs for flavor. You can use lemon zest for a fresh taste. Try adding nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy. Experiment with what you love. Each change can give you a new twist on these fries. Enjoy finding your favorite spice mix!
Storage Info
How to Store Leftover Zucchini Fries
To store leftover zucchini fries, let them cool first. Place them in an airtight container. Layer parchment paper between fries to prevent sticking. Store in the fridge for up to three days. Make sure to seal the container tightly to keep them fresh.
Reheating Instructions
When you want to enjoy your leftover zucchini fries, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Spread the fries on a baking sheet in a single layer. Bake for about 10 minutes, or until they are hot and crispy again. You can also reheat them in an air fryer for extra crispiness. Just set it to 375°F (190°C) for about 5-7 minutes.
Freezing for Future Enjoyment
If you want to freeze zucchini fries, first let them cool completely. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for 1-2 hours. Once frozen, transfer the fries to a freezer bag. Remove as much air as possible from the bag. They can stay in the freezer for up to three months. When you’re ready to eat them, bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Enjoy your crispy baked zucchini fries anytime with these simple storage methods! For the full recipe, check out the details above.
FAQs
Can I use frozen zucchini for this recipe?
I do not recommend using frozen zucchini. Frozen zucchini can get mushy when baked. Fresh zucchini gives you a better crunch and flavor. If you have fresh zucchini, use that for the best results.
How do I make zucchini fries less watery?
To reduce the water in zucchini, salt the strips before cooking. After slicing, sprinkle salt on the zucchini. Let them sit for about 15 minutes. This draws out excess moisture. After that, pat the zucchini dry with a paper towel. This step is key for crispy fries.
What can I serve with baked zucchini fries?
Baked zucchini fries pair well with many dips. Try serving them with marinara sauce or ranch dressing. You can also use garlic aioli or a spicy salsa. Each dip adds a new flavor to the fries. They make a great snack or side dish for any meal.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes, this recipe works great for meal prep. You can bake a large batch and store them. Keep them in an airtight container for up to three days. Reheat in the oven for a few minutes for the best texture. Baked zucchini fries are a fun, healthy snack anytime! For the full recipe, check above.
This blog post covered everything you need for delicious baked zucchini fries. We explored the right ingredients, steps to bake them, tips for more crunch, and yummy variations. I also shared how to store leftovers and answered common questions.
Baking zucchini fries is simple and fun. You can enjoy a healthy snack or side dish anytime. Try different spices to find your perfect flavor. Enjoy your cooking adventure!
