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Crispy Parmesan Zucchini Fries Recipe with Easy Garlic Aioli Dip

crispy parmesan zucchini fries - featured image

These crispy Parmesan zucchini fries are a healthier alternative to traditional fries, featuring a golden, cheesy crust and a creamy garlic aioli dip. Perfect as a snack or side dish, they are quick to prepare and loved by both kids and adults.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 medium zucchinis, washed and cut into fries about 1/2 inch thick and 3-4 inches long
  • 1 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese (preferably Parmigiano-Reggiano)
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (can substitute almond flour for gluten-free)
  • 2 large eggs, beaten, room temperature
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Olive oil spray or cooking spray
  • For the garlic aioli dip:
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced or pressed
  • 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • Pinch of salt
  • Freshly ground black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and place a wire rack on top if available.
  2. Wash and dry zucchinis, then cut into sticks about 1/2 inch thick and 3-4 inches long. Pat dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
  3. Set up breading station: In one bowl, place flour seasoned lightly with salt and pepper. In a second bowl, beat eggs. In a third bowl, combine Parmesan, panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, salt, and pepper; mix well.
  4. Dredge each zucchini fry in flour, shaking off excess. Dip into beaten eggs, allowing excess to drip off. Roll in Parmesan-panko mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
  5. Arrange coated fries in a single layer on wire rack or lined baking sheet, ensuring they are not touching.
  6. Lightly spray fries with olive oil spray.
  7. Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy outside but tender inside.
  8. While fries bake, whisk together mayonnaise, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper to make garlic aioli. Chill until serving.
  9. Serve fries hot with garlic aioli on the side.

Notes

Pat zucchini dry thoroughly to avoid soggy fries. Use a wire rack for even crispiness or flip fries halfway through baking. Freshly grated Parmesan cheese crisps better than pre-grated. Olive oil spray helps achieve a golden crust without deep frying. Fries can be breaded up to 2 hours ahead and refrigerated before baking. Reheat leftovers in oven or air fryer to maintain crispiness; avoid microwaving.

Nutrition

Keywords: zucchini fries, parmesan fries, garlic aioli, baked zucchini, healthy snack, crispy fries, easy appetizer