Name: Easy and Crispy Air Fryer Zucchini Fries
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 medium zucchini; ⅓ cup all-purpose flour; 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning; 1 teaspoon kosher salt, or to taste; ½ teaspoon black pepper, or to taste; 2 large eggs; ½ cup plain bread crumbs; ½ cup Panko bread crumbs; ⅓ cup grated Parmesan cheese; Cooking oil spray, for cooking; 4-5 cloves garlic, minced (for aioli); 1-2 tablespoons fresh lemon or lime juice (for aioli); ½ teaspoon Dijon mustard (for aioli); ⅔ cup mayonnaise (for aioli); Kosher salt, to taste (for aioli); Black pepper, to taste (for aioli)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You’ll love this recipe because it transforms zucchini into a crispy, flavorful treat without the need for deep frying. The air fryer gives the fries a crunchy texture with minimal oil, and the garlic aioli adds a fresh, tangy dipping option. It’s quick, easy, and a great way to enjoy a veggie-packed snack.

Ingredients

Zucchini Fries:

2 medium zucchini
⅓ cup all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
1 teaspoon kosher salt, or to taste
½ teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
2 large eggs
½ cup plain bread crumbs
½ cup Panko bread crumbs
⅓ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Cooking oil spray, for cooking

Garlic Aioli:

4-5 cloves garlic, minced
1-2 tablespoons fresh lemon or lime juice
½ teaspoon Dijon mustard
⅔ cup mayonnaise
Kosher salt, to taste
Black pepper, to taste

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Slice zucchini into 3-inch long, ½-inch thick fries.
In one shallow bowl, whisk flour, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. In a second bowl, lightly whisk eggs. In a third bowl, combine bread crumbs and Parmesan.
Dredge each zucchini fry in flour, then egg (letting excess drip), then coat fully in breadcrumb mixture. Place on a plate.
Spray air fryer basket with cooking spray and preheat to 400°F (200°C).
Place zucchini fries in a single layer in the air fryer basket (work in batches if needed). Spray tops lightly with cooking spray.
Air fry for 8-10 minutes, flipping once, until golden and crispy. Season with kosher salt while warm.
To make aioli, mix garlic, lemon or lime juice, and Dijon mustard in a small bowl; let sit 10-15 minutes. Whisk in mayonnaise until smooth, season with salt and pepper.
Serve zucchini fries hot with garlic aioli.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

Swap Parmesan for nutritional yeast for a dairy-free version.
Add smoked paprika or cayenne pepper to the breadcrumb mixture for a spicy kick.
Use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs for a gluten-free option.
Substitute lemon juice with lime juice in the aioli for a different citrus flavor.
Mix fresh herbs like parsley or basil into the breadcrumb mixture for added freshness.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover zucchini fries in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3-5 minutes to restore crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the fries soggy.

FAQs

Can I use regular breadcrumbs instead of Panko?

Yes, regular breadcrumbs work but Panko gives a lighter, crispier texture.

Do I need to peel the zucchini?

Peeling is optional. Keeping the skin adds color and nutrients.

Can I bake these zucchini fries instead of air frying?

Yes, bake on a greased baking sheet at 425°F (220°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway.

How do I prevent the coating from falling off?

Make sure each layer (flour, egg, breadcrumbs) coats evenly and gently press breadcrumbs onto the zucchini.

Can I prepare the aioli ahead of time?

Yes, make the aioli up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate in a covered container.

Are these fries vegan?

Not as written due to eggs, cheese, and mayonnaise. Substitute with vegan alternatives to make vegan.

How do I keep zucchini fries crispy after cooking?

Serve immediately or keep warm in a low oven (200°F/90°C) until ready to serve.

Can I use zucchini noodles or slices instead of fries?

Zucchini slices can work but may require shorter cooking time to avoid sogginess.

What can I use if I don’t have an air fryer?

You can bake them in the oven or deep fry for a crispier result.

How long do zucchini fries last after cooking?

They are best eaten fresh but can be stored for up to 2 days in the fridge.

Conclusion

Easy and Crispy Air Fryer Zucchini Fries are a delicious and healthier alternative to traditional fries, featuring a crunchy Parmesan breadcrumb crust and a flavorful garlic aioli dipping sauce. Quick to prepare and full of fresh, vibrant flavors, they’re perfect for snacking, entertaining, or adding a veggie twist to your meals.

Easy and Crispy Air Fryer Zucchini Fries