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Introduction
Are you tired of the same old snack options and looking for something healthy yet delicious? Enter baked zucchini fries, a snack that’s tasty and packed with nutrients. Are you curious how these crispy delights can fit into your diet and satisfy your cravings? Read on to find out!
Ingredients
To make the perfect batch of baked zucchini fries, you will need:
- Two medium zucchinis cut into fries
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Two large eggs
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooking spray or olive oil
How to Make Baked Zucchini Fries
- Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly spray it with cooking spray or brush it with olive oil.
- Prepare the Coating: In a shallow dish, mix the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Coat the Zucchini: Beat the eggs in another shallow dish. Dip each zucchini fry into the eggs, allowing any excess to drip off, then coat thoroughly with the breadcrumb mixture. Place the coated zucchini fries on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through, until the fries are golden brown and crispy.
- Serve: Enjoy baked zucchini fries with marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or your favourite dipping sauce.
Helpful Tips
- Uniform Cuts: Ensure your zucchini fries are cut uniformly for even baking.
- Crispy Coating: For extra crispy fries, use panko breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs.
- Oil Spray: Lightly spray the coated fries with olive oil before baking to enhance crispiness.
- Cooling Rack: Place the fries on a cooling rack on the baking sheet to prevent the bottoms from getting soggy.
Substitutions/Variations
- Cheese Options: Substitute Parmesan with other hard cheeses like Asiago or Pecorino Romano.
- Spice It Up: Add cayenne pepper or chilli powder to the breadcrumb mixture for a spicy kick.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs for a gluten-free version of this recipe.
- Vegan Option: Replace the eggs with water and flaxseed meal (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal mixed with three tablespoons water).
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make these zucchini fries in an air fryer? Yes, you can! Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and cook the fries for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
2. How do I prevent the zucchini fries from becoming soggy? Cut the zucchini fries evenly and pat them dry with a paper towel before coating them. Baking them on a cooling rack can also help keep them crispy.
3. Can I freeze baked zucchini fries? Yes, you can freeze them before baking. Place the coated fries on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer to a freezer-safe bag and bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Storage Instructions
Store any leftover zucchini fries in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes or until heated through and crispy.
Conclusion
In conclusion, baked zucchini fries are a versatile and nutritious snack that can appeal to a wide age range, from young adults to seniors. By incorporating these easy-to-make, crispy delights into your snack routine, you enjoy a healthier alternative to traditional fries and a delicious way to consume more vegetables. So, next time you’re craving a snack, remember the benefits and deliciousness of baked zucchini fries, and try this recipe!
