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Crispy Baked Zucchini Fries with Garlic Aioli

crispy baked zucchini fries - featured image

These crispy baked zucchini fries are a healthy, crunchy snack paired perfectly with a homemade garlic aioli sauce. They are easy to make, flavorful, and a great way to enjoy a guilt-free comfort food.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 medium zucchinis (about 14 oz / 400 g), sliced into fries
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (use gluten-free panko for GF option)
  • ⅓ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • Cooking spray or olive oil for brushing
  • ½ cup mayonnaise
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • ½ teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Optional: a pinch of cayenne pepper

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
  2. Wash and dry the zucchinis thoroughly. Slice them into evenly sized fries about 3 inches long and ½ inch thick.
  3. In one bowl, beat the 2 eggs with a pinch of salt. In another bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
  4. Dip each zucchini piece into the egg mixture, letting excess drip off, then roll it in the breadcrumb mixture. Press lightly so the coating sticks well. Place coated fries on the baking sheet in a single layer, leaving space between each one.
  5. Lightly spray or brush the coated fries with olive oil or cooking spray.
  6. Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through (around 12 minutes), until golden and crispy.
  7. While the fries bake, prepare the garlic aioli: In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, minced garlic, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, pepper, and cayenne if using. Stir until smooth and adjust seasoning to taste.
  8. Remove fries from oven and let cool for 2 minutes before serving.
  9. Serve immediately with the garlic aioli on the side for dipping.

Notes

Dry zucchini slices thoroughly before coating to ensure the breading sticks and fries stay crispy. Do not overcrowd the baking sheet to avoid soggy fries. Flip fries halfway through baking for even crispiness. For extra crunch, broil for 1-2 minutes at the end but watch carefully to prevent burning. Garlic aioli can be made up to 2 days ahead and refrigerated to deepen flavors.

Nutrition

Keywords: zucchini fries, baked zucchini, healthy snack, garlic aioli, crispy fries, gluten-free option, vegetarian snack