Parmesan Zucchini Fries

Name: Parmesan Zucchini Fries
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 medium zucchinis; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular); 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon paprika; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 large egg; Cooking spray or olive oil (for baking)

Isabella

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Crispy Parmesan Zucchini Fries – These baked zucchini fries are a healthy, delicious alternative to traditional fries. Coated in a savory blend of Parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs, they make a perfect side dish or snack. Enjoy the crispy texture and flavorful bite without the guilt!

Ingredients:

2 medium zucchinis

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1/2 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

1/2 teaspoon paprika

1/4 teaspoon salt

1 large egg

Cooking spray or olive oil (for baking)

Directions:

Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Prepare the Zucchini: Cut the zucchinis into thin, fry-like strips, each about 3-4 inches long.

Whisk the Egg: In a shallow bowl, whisk the egg until it’s fully beaten. This will help the coating stick to the zucchini.

Make the Coating: In another bowl, combine the grated Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, paprika, black pepper, and salt. This mix will give the fries their savory, crispy texture.

Coat the Zucchini: Dip each zucchini strip into the egg, allowing any excess to drip off. Then, coat it in the Parmesan-breadcrumb mixture, ensuring an even layer.

Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place the coated zucchini strips in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.

Add Olive Oil: Lightly spray or drizzle the zucchini fries with olive oil to enhance crispiness during baking.

Bake: Bake the zucchini fries for 20-25 minutes, turning them once halfway through to ensure even cooking. They should be golden brown and crispy when done.

Serve: Enjoy the Parmesan Zucchini Fries hot, paired with your favorite dipping sauce.

Serving Tips:

Pair with Dips: Serve your Parmesan Zucchini Fries with a variety of dipping sauces to enhance their flavor. Popular choices include marinara sauce, ranch dressing, garlic aioli, or a spicy sriracha mayo.

Serve Immediately: For the best texture and flavor, serve the zucchini fries straight out of the oven while they’re still hot and crispy.

Garnish for Extra Flavor: Sprinkle some fresh chopped parsley, a dash of red pepper flakes, or an extra dusting of grated Parmesan over the fries just before serving to add a burst of color and flavor.

Accompaniments: These fries make a great side dish for burgers, grilled chicken, or sandwiches. They can also be served as a light appetizer or snack on their own.

Serving for a Crowd: If you’re making these for a larger group, consider doubling the recipe and baking the fries on multiple trays. Just be sure to rotate the trays halfway through baking for even cooking.

Storage Tips:

Refrigeration: Store any leftover zucchini fries in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days. However, note that they may lose some of their crispiness as they sit.

Reheating: To reheat, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the fries on a baking sheet and bake for about 10 minutes, or until they’re heated through and regain some of their crispiness. You can also use an air fryer for reheating, which helps them stay crispy.

Avoid Microwaving: Reheating in the microwave is not recommended, as it can make the fries soggy. Stick to the oven or air fryer for the best results.

Freezing: Freezing zucchini fries is not recommended, as the texture of the zucchini can become mushy after thawing. It’s best to enjoy them fresh or reheated within a few days.

Related Recipes:

Baked Garlic Parmesan Fries Recipe

FAQs:

Can I use a different type of cheese instead of Parmesan?

Yes, you can substitute Parmesan with other hard cheeses like Pecorino Romano or Asiago. These cheeses will provide a similar savory flavor. However, keep in mind that Parmesan has a unique taste and texture that complements the zucchini fries perfectly.

How can I make these zucchini fries gluten-free?

To make gluten-free Parmesan Zucchini Fries, simply replace the breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. Ensure that the cheese and other seasonings you use are also gluten-free.

Can I prepare the zucchini fries ahead of time?

Yes, you can prep the zucchini fries in advance by cutting the zucchini and preparing the Parmesan-breadcrumb mixture ahead of time. Store them separately in the refrigerator until you’re ready to assemble and bake. However, for the best texture, it’s recommended to coat and bake them just before serving.

What’s the best way to keep the zucchini fries crispy after baking?

To keep the zucchini fries crispy, avoid overcrowding the baking sheet, as this can cause them to steam instead of bake. After baking, place the fries on a wire rack to prevent them from getting soggy. If you need to reheat them, use an oven or air fryer to restore their crispiness.

Conclusion:

Parmesan Zucchini Fries offer a delightful combination of flavors and textures, making them a fantastic alternative to traditional fries. Whether you’re looking for a healthy snack or a tasty side dish, this recipe is sure to please. Enjoy these crispy, cheesy fries hot out of the oven and savor every bite!

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