Oh boy, let me tell you about one of my all-time favorite snacks: Tasty Parmesan Zucchini Fries! I stumbled upon this recipe during one of my attempts to sneak in some extra veggies into my diet (because who isn’t trying to eat healthier, am I right?). These delightful little fries turned out to be such a hit that they’ve become a staple in my kitchen. They’re crispy, cheesy, and full of flavor, making them the perfect guilt-free treat for movie night or a quick appetizer when friends come over!
Every time I whip these up, I can’t help but think back to those summer evenings spent in my garden, tasting fresh zucchinis straight off the vine. One time, I had so many zucchinis, a friend jokingly suggested I open a “Zucchini Drive-Thru”. Well, instead of that entrepreneurial endeavor, I decided to experiment in the kitchen and voilà—Parmesan Zucchini Fries were born! Trust me, once you try them, you’ll want to make these more often than you’d like to admit!
What’s in Tasty Parmesan Zucchini Fries?
Zucchinis: The star of the show! These juicy green veggies are not only low in calories but also a great source of vitamins and minerals. Plus, when baked, they get that lovely golden crunch we all crave!
Breadcrumbs: I always opt for panko breadcrumbs for these fries. They give an extra crunch that regular breadcrumbs just can’t match. If you can’t find panko, regular ones will do, but don’t blame me if they aren’t as crispy!
Parmesan Cheese: This is what takes these fries from good to absolutely delicious! The sharp and savory taste of grated Parmesan cheese pairs perfectly with the zucchini, creating a snack you won’t want to put down.
Garlic Powder: Because who doesn’t love the rich flavor of garlic? It adds that lovely aroma and enhances the taste of the fries.
Paprika: Just a little bit of paprika gives a slight kick and a lovely color to the fries. You can use smoked paprika for an added depth of flavor if you’re feeling fancy!
Eggs: These are the glue that holds everything together. Coating the zucchini in egg ensures that the breadcrumbs really stick and gives them that delightful crispy texture.
All-Purpose Flour: A light dusting of flour before the egg dip makes for an even crispier fry, and we love all the crunch we can get, don’t we?
Olive Oil Spray: A light spray of olive oil helps to brown the fries beautifully without making them greasy. It’s like a little magic wand for even crispiness!
Is Tasty Parmesan Zucchini Fries Good for You?
Absolutely! These fries are a healthier alternative to your regular potato fries. Here’s why they’re good for you:
Zucchinis are a fantastic source of antioxidants, vitamins A and C, and have a high water content, which means low calories and loads of hydration!
Parmesan Cheese adds calcium and protein, which are great for bone health and muscle recovery. Just be mindful of the quantities, as cheese can be on the salty side.
The use of olive oil keeps the dish heart-healthy while still giving that crispy texture we crave. Just remember to use it in moderation!
However, it’s important to note that even though these fries are healthier, they still contain a bit of cheese and breadcrumbs, so enjoy them in moderation as part of a balanced diet!
Ingredients List
– 2 medium zucchinis
– 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch)
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 2 large eggs
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– Olive oil spray (or regular olive oil for brushing)
This recipe serves about 4 as a snack or appetizer, but if you’re like me, you might just want to keep it all to yourself!
How to Make Tasty Parmesan Zucchini Fries?
1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Wash and dry the zucchinis, then slice them into long strips, about 1/4 inch thick, resembling fries.
3. In a shallow bowl, mix the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
4. In another bowl, beat the eggs. In a third bowl, place the flour.
5. Take each zucchini strip and dip it first in the flour, shaking off the excess. Next, coat it in the beaten eggs, and finally, press it into the breadcrumb mixture to ensure it sticks well.
6. Arrange the coated zucchini fries on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer. If desired, lightly spray or brush the tops with olive oil for that perfect golden color.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
8. Remove from the oven, let cool for a couple of minutes, and serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce.
You’re going to love how simple and delicious these fries are!
Fries That Fly: Extra Tips and Serving Suggestions!
– Feel free to mix up the spices! A little Italian seasoning or even a pinch of cayenne pepper can really elevate these fries if you want to spice things up.
– If you have any leftover zucchini, consider making a dip! A simple yogurt or sour cream dip with herbs would pair beautifully.
– These fries are best served fresh, but you can reheat them in an air fryer to bring back that initial crispiness if you have leftovers.
Give these Tasty Parmesan Zucchini Fries a whirl! I promise they’ll be a crowd-pleaser—just like they are in my house. I can’t wait to hear how yours turn out!
