Crispy Baked Zucchini Fries with Parmesan & Garlic Aioli
Alright, let's dive into this article section!
Recipe Introduction: Your New Go-To Zucchini Fries Recipe
Ever have that craving for fries, but feel, like, slightly guilty? well, i’ve got you covered! this zucchini fries recipe is a game changer.
Think crispy, flavourful, and just a little bit healthier. it's like wallpaper food that tastes amazing.
Zucchini Fries: Not Just Another Veggie Side!
These aren't your grandma's steamed zucchini. These Parmesan Zucchini Fries are crispy, baked to perfection, and seriously addictive. They even give buffalo cauliflower a run for its money! Honestly, these could rival any chip shop fries recipes out there!
A Little Zucchini Love
Zucchini, also known as courgette, is such a humble vegetable. it comes from the americas but is enjoyed worldwide. this zucchini fries baked recipe is easy peasy.
Takes about an hour total, and makes enough for 4 people to share…or not! seriously, you might not want to share! these fries could also be called zucchini pommes .
Why These Zucchini Fries Are SO Good
Okay, so healthy zucchini , obviously! but the real magic is the crispy coating and the flavour. we're talking parmesan zucchini , italian herbs, garlic… chef's kiss .
Plus, they're baked, not fried. this makes them a bit lighter, perfect for when you want something snackable but not too naughty.
Looking for gluten-free recipes for dinner side dish? you found one!.
Alright, let's dive into what you'll need to whip up this amazing zucchini fries recipe . trust me, even your veggie skeptic mates will be begging for more! we're making crispy parmesan zucchini fries , not sad, soggy imitations.
Getting Your Gear & Grub Sorted
Think of this bit as your pre-flight checklist. you wouldn't take off without checking the fuel, would you? same goes for cooking! we want everything prepped for the best zucchini fries baked .
Main Ingredients: The Zucchini Squad
- Zucchinis: You'll need 2 medium zucchinis (about 1 lb / 450g ). Look for firm, dark green ones. Avoid the soft squishy ones, yeah? That is an easy way to tell if your zucchinis are of quality.
- Flour Power: Half a cup ( 60g ) of all-purpose flour. This helps the coating stick, like glue!
- Egg-cellent: Two large eggs, lightly beaten. Think scrambled eggs, but not cooked.
- Breadcrumb Bonanza: One cup ( 55g ) of panko breadcrumbs. These are the key to crispy! Honestly, don't skimp.
- Parmesan Perfection: Half a cup ( 50g ) of grated Parmesan cheese. Freshly grated is always better, but the pre-grated stuff works in a pinch. I have used it once.
- Oil Slick: Two tablespoons of olive oil and some cooking spray. This ensures the fries don't stick and get a nice golden tan.
Seasoning Notes: Amp Up The Flavour
Forget bland! We're building flavor bombs here. My nan used to say, "A little spice is the spice of life!"
- Italian Seasoning: One teaspoon of dried Italian seasoning. A classic mix of oregano, basil, rosemary, and thyme.
- Garlic Powder: Half a teaspoon. Because everything is better with garlic, isn't it?
- Salt and Pepper: Quarter teaspoon each of black pepper, one teaspoon of kosher salt (6g). Essential!
Spice alternatives exist. If you don't have Italian seasoning, try oregano and basil. Just throwing it out there! If you feel brave, sprinkle some chilli flakes for a kick.
Equipment Needed: No Fancy Pants Required
No need to spend a fortune. I managed to make them with the most basic equipment you would find in your house.
- Baking Sheet: Standard baking sheet.
- Parchment Paper/Silicone Mat: To prevent sticking and for easy cleanup.
- Bowls: Three shallow bowls or plates for the breading station.
- Whisk: For beating the eggs. A fork works too.
- Cheese Grater: For grating the Parmesan.
- Paper Towels: For drying the zucchini. This is crucial !
If you don't have parchment paper, a well greased baking sheet is alright. Just keep a close eye on the fries to prevent sticking.
This isn't just a zucchini fries recipe ; it's about creating a healthy zucchini alternative. this fries recipes will get you a tasty dish.
Are you ready to turn the zucchini into zucchini pommes ? let’s do this.
Alright, let's dive into this zucchini fries recipe ! honestly, i used to hate zucchini. you know, that watery, bland stuff grandma used to make? but then i discovered the magic of turning it into crispy, delicious fries.
Trust me, even if you think you're not a zucchini fan, you'll love these.
Prep Like a Pro: Zucchini Fries Edition
First, the mise en place is crucial. get your zucchini, parmesan, breadcrumbs, and all the spices ready. i learned the hard way that scrambling mid-recipe leads to soggy fries.
So, prep first! save time by grating a block of parmesan zucchini cheese instead of buying pre-grated. it tastes better, too.
And a safety tip: always use a sharp knife when cutting the zucchini. a dull knife is more likely to slip.
From Zero to Zucchini Hero: step-by-step
Here’s the super easy process for these Parmesan Zucchini Fries :
- Slice 2 medium zucchini into 3 inch fries . Salt them and place them in a colander for 30 minutes . This is KEY to removing excess water.
- Set up your breading station: flour, beaten eggs, and a mix of panko breadcrumbs, parmesan, and spices.
- Dredge each fry in flour, then egg, then the panko mixture. Coat them completely.
- Arrange the breaded fries on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with a tiny bit of olive oil.
- Bake at 400° F ( 200° C) for 20- 25 minutes , flipping halfway, until golden brown.
- While baking, whisk together mayo, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper for the garlic aioli.
- Serve immediately with the aioli. Boom!
Unlock the Secrets of Zucchini Pommes Perfection
Here are my tried and-true tips. a common mistake? not drying the zucchini enough. seriously, that 30-minute salting is non-negotiable for avoiding soggy zucchini fries baked .
Another tip is to avoid overcrowding the baking sheet! you need that air circulating for maximum crispness. want to prep ahead? bread the zucchini pommes and store them in the fridge for up to 2 hours before baking.
I hope you find inspiration in others fries recipes , and wallpaper food .
I have found that healthy zucchini is easy to sneak into your diet. buffalo cauliflower is delicious to eat if you are a vegetarian.
Looking for gluten-free recipes for dinner , zucchini is the way to go!
These zucchini fries are a game changer, honestly. they're perfect as a side dish or a snack, and the garlic aioli takes them to another level.
So ditch those boring chips and give this recipe a try you won't regret it.
Recipe Notes: Zucchini Fries Perfection!
Right, so you've got this amazing zucchini fries recipe sorted. but like, let's chat about how to really nail it, yeah? i've made so many batches of these (trust me, loads ) and i’ve got a few pearls of wisdom to share.
Honestly, sometimes the devil's in the details.
Serving Suggestions: Making Those Zucchini Pommes Shine
Okay, first up, presentation. we eat with our eyes, don't we? you could just chuck 'em on a plate. nah! for some wallpaper food vibes, a rustic wooden board looks amazing.
Line it with paper, pile the parmesan zucchini fries high, and artfully dollop the garlic aioli. think "effortlessly cool".
What to serve with them? honestly, so many things! buffalo cauliflower wings make an awesome contrast. or, if you're feeling fancy, grilled halloumi skewers.
For drinks? a crisp white wine or even a simple sparkling lemonade does the trick. the possibilities are endless.
Storage Tips: Keeping it Fresh
Right, these are definitely best eaten fresh. like, straight out the oven kinda fresh. but, life happens. if you do have leftovers, pop them in an airtight container in the fridge.
They'll be okay for a day or two.
Reheating? the oven is your friend here. a quick blast at 350° f ( 175° c) should crisp them up a bit.
Microwaving? nah . they'll go soggy. freezing isn't ideal, honestly. the texture goes a bit weird. but, desperate times, right?
Variations: Get Creative with These Fries Recipes !
Fancy a change? absolutely! for a dietary twist, try gluten-free recipes for dinner by swapping the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend.
And instead of panko, use crushed gluten-free crackers. you know?
For a seasonal swap, in summer, try adding some finely chopped fresh herbs like basil or mint to the breadcrumb mix.
In autumn, a sprinkle of smoked paprika adds a lovely warmth. healthy zucchini , always.
Nutrition Basics: Goodness in Every Bite!
Okay, let's be real. these are still fries. but, they're parmesan zucchini fries, so automatically healthier than regular chips. you are getting some good vitamins from the healthy zucchini , plus protein from the parmesan.
One serving packs a decent amount of vitamin C and potassium. Just keep an eye on the portion size and go easy on the aioli. You know, balance!
So there you have it. A few extra tips to make your zucchini fries recipe totally awesome. Honestly, have fun with it! Don't be afraid to experiment. Most importantly, enjoy!
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are my zucchini fries soggy and how can I prevent this?
Soggy zucchini fries are a common problem! The key is to draw out as much moisture as possible before baking. Our recipe involves salting the zucchini fries for 30 minutes to help remove excess water think of it like prepping a good Sunday roast.
Make sure to pat them really dry with paper towels afterwards, almost like you're blotting away your troubles. This ensures a lovely, crispy exterior.
Can I make this zucchini fries recipe ahead of time?
While these zucchini fries are best served fresh out of the oven for maximum crispiness, you can prep them ahead of time. Bread the zucchini fries and arrange them on the baking sheet, then cover and refrigerate for up to a few hours. Just remember to drizzle with olive oil right before baking.
Think of it like prepping your full English breakfast the night before, but not actually cooking it until the morning keeps things fresh!
What other dipping sauces go well with these baked zucchini fries?
While our garlic aioli is a real winner, these zucchini fries are versatile and play well with other dipping sauces. Marinara sauce offers a classic Italian pairing, while ranch dressing provides a creamy, comforting option.
For those who like a bit of a kick, try sriracha mayo it's like adding a bit of spice to your life! Even a simple sweet chilli sauce would work wonders.
Are there any substitutions I can make for the Parmesan cheese in this zucchini fries recipe?
Absolutely! If you don't have Parmesan on hand or are looking for a different flavor profile, Pecorino Romano is a great substitute with a sharper, saltier taste. Grana Padano is another good option, offering a slightly milder and nuttier flavour compared to Parmesan.
Just remember that the taste will be slightly different, like swapping cheddar for Red Leicester in your cheese toastie - still delicious, just a bit different!
Can I cook these zucchini fries in an air fryer?
Yes, absolutely! Air frying is a fantastic way to get incredibly crispy zucchini fries. Simply preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and cook for 10-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
Think of it as a turbo charged oven, giving you that lovely crisp without all the extra oil and time. Just be sure not to overcrowd the air fryer basket work in batches if necessary, like cooking up rounds of crumpets to perfection.
How do I store leftover zucchini fries and how long will they last?
Leftover zucchini fries are best stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They'll last for about 2-3 days, but they will lose some of their crispness. To reheat, you can bake them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes to help crisp them up again, or use the air fryer!
Microwave is not recommended as it will make them soggy, similar to reheating yesterday's fish and chips - just not quite the same experience.
Crispy Baked Zucchini Fries With Parmesan Garlic
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts:
| Calories | 275 calories |
|---|---|
| Fat | 17.5g |
| Fiber | 2.5g |
