Air Fryer Zucchini Fries Recipe

Zucchini: Fresh, medium-sized zucchinis cut into fry shapes.

Panko breadcrumbs: Preferred for their light and crispy texture.

Parmesan cheese: Grated cheese that adds a savory, umami flavor.

Eggs: Beaten to help the breadcrumb mixture adhere to the zucchini.

Garlic powder: Adds a subtle garlic flavor.

Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that enhances the overall taste.

Salt: Enhances the flavors of all the ingredients.

Black pepper: Adds a hint of spice and depth.

When preparing zucchini fries for the air fryer, make sure to pat the zucchini slices dry with a paper towel before dipping them into the beaten eggs. This helps the breadcrumb mixture adhere better, resulting in a crispier texture.

• zucchinis - Substitute with yellow squash: Yellow squash has a similar texture and mild flavor, making it a good alternative for zucchini fries.

• panko breadcrumbs - Substitute with crushed cornflakes: Crushed cornflakes provide a similar crunchy texture and can be a gluten-free option.

• grated parmesan cheese - Substitute with nutritional yeast: Nutritional yeast offers a cheesy flavor and is a great vegan alternative.

• beaten eggs - Substitute with flax eggs: Flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 3 tablespoon water) work well as a binding agent for a vegan option.

• garlic powder - Substitute with onion powder: Onion powder provides a different but complementary flavor profile.

• italian seasoning - Substitute with herbes de Provence: Herbes de Provence offers a similar blend of herbs with a slightly different flavor.

• salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce can add a salty and umami flavor, but use sparingly to avoid overpowering the dish.

• black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper provides a similar heat and flavor but with a slightly different taste profile.

• Allow the zucchini fries to cool completely before storing. This prevents condensation, which can make them soggy.

• Place the cooled fries in an airtight container. Line the container with a paper towel to absorb any excess moisture.

• Store the container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 3-5 minutes to regain crispiness.

• For freezing, arrange the cooled fries on a baking sheet in a single layer. Freeze until solid, about 1-2 hours.

• Transfer the frozen fries to a freezer-safe bag or container. Label with the date and store for up to 2 months.

• To reheat, place the frozen fries directly in the air fryer at 400°F (200°C) for 5-7 minutes, shaking halfway through, until heated through and crispy.

• Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover zucchini fries in a single layer in the basket. Air fry for 3-5 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until they are heated through and regain their crispiness.

• Use an oven preheated to 375°F (190°C). Spread the zucchini fries on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 5-7 minutes, or until they are hot and crispy.

• For a quick fix, use a microwave. Place the zucchini fries on a microwave-safe plate lined with a paper towel to absorb excess moisture. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes. Note: This method may not retain the original crispiness.

• If you have a toaster oven, preheat it to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the zucchini fries in a single layer on the toaster oven tray. Toast for 5-7 minutes until they are heated through and crispy.

• For a stovetop method, heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add a small amount of olive oil or butter. Place the zucchini fries in the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until they are warmed through and crispy.

• Air fryer: This is the primary cooking device used to achieve the crispy texture of the zucchini fries without deep frying.

• Mixing bowl: Used to combine the breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, and seasonings.

• Whisk: Essential for beating the eggs to create an even coating for the zucchini fries.

• Knife: Needed to cut the zucchinis into fry shapes.

• Cutting board: Provides a stable surface for cutting the zucchinis.

• Tongs: Useful for dipping the zucchini fries into the beaten eggs and then into the breadcrumb mixture.

• Measuring cups: Used to measure out the breadcrumbs and parmesan cheese accurately.

• Measuring spoons: Used to measure the garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.

• Air fryer basket: The part of the air fryer where the zucchini fries are placed in a single layer for cooking.

• Serving plate: For serving the crispy zucchini fries once they are cooked.

• Shaking basket: This is the action of shaking the air fryer basket halfway through cooking to ensure even crisping.

Pre-cut zucchini: Slice the zucchini into fries ahead of time and store them in the fridge.

Use pre-grated cheese: Buy pre-grated parmesan cheese to save time on grating.

Organize ingredients: Measure out and organize all ingredients before starting.

Line the basket: Use parchment paper or a silicone liner in the air fryer basket for easy cleanup.

Batch cooking: Cook multiple batches of zucchini fries back-to-back to save on preheating time.