Crispy Baked Zucchini Fries with Garlic Aioli 🥒🧄
Looking for a lighter alternative to traditional fries? These Crispy Baked Zucchini Fries deliver all the crunch and flavor without the deep-fry. Coated in herbed breadcrumbs and oven-baked until golden, they pair perfectly with a creamy garlic aioli. They’re a crowd-pleasing appetizer, snack, or side you’ll make again and again. 💚
Why You’ll Love These Zucchini Fries 💚
- ✅ Oven-Baked, Not Fried: All the crisp without the grease.
- ✅ Easy to Make: Just slice, coat, and bake.
- ✅ Perfect Pairing: Creamy garlic aioli takes it to the next level.
- ✅ Great for Picky Eaters: A fun way to enjoy more veggies.
🥒 Zucchini Fries with Garlic Aioli Recipe
Ingredients
-
- For the Zucchini Fries:
- 2 medium zucchinis, cut into sticks 🥒
- ½ cup flour (or gluten-free alternative) 🌾
- 2 large eggs 🥚
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (or crushed cornflakes for extra crunch) 🍞
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan (optional) 🧀
- 1 tsp garlic powder + 1 tsp Italian seasoning 🌿
- Salt & pepper to taste 🧂
- Cooking spray or olive oil mist 🫒
- For the Garlic Aioli:
- ½ cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for lighter version) 🥣
- 1 garlic clove, finely minced or grated 🧄
- 1 tsp lemon juice 🍋
- Salt & pepper to taste 🧂
👩🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions (Expanded)
- Preheat the oven:
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C)</strong). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. Lightly spray with oil to prevent sticking. - Prepare the zucchini:
Wash and dry your zucchinis. Slice them lengthwise into fry-sized sticks, about ½ inch thick. Pat them dry with paper towels to reduce moisture—this helps them bake crispier. - Set up a breading station:
- In one shallow bowl, place the flour with a pinch of salt and pepper.
- In a second bowl, beat the eggs until smooth.
- In a third bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan (if using), garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and a pinch of salt.
- Bread the zucchini fries:
- Working in batches, dip each zucchini stick into the flour, shaking off the excess.
- Then dip it into the egg, making sure it’s fully coated.
- Finally, press it into the breadcrumb mixture, turning to coat all sides.
- Place on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer with space between each fry.
- Bake:
Lightly spray the tops with cooking spray. Bake for 22–25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy. - Make the garlic aioli:
- In a small bowl, combine mayo (or Greek yogurt), garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
- Whisk until smooth. Chill in the fridge while fries bake for best flavor.
- Serve:
Plate zucchini fries warm with a side of garlic aioli for dipping. Garnish with chopped parsley or an extra sprinkle of Parmesan if desired. ✨
💡 Tips & Variations
- ✨ No eggs? Use plain yogurt or a plant-based milk as a binder.
- ✨ Extra crisp: Finish under the broiler for 2 minutes at the end.
- ✨ Low-carb version: Use almond flour and crushed pork rinds instead of panko.
- ✨ Make it spicy: Add chili flakes or cayenne to the breadcrumb mix.
🥒 Nutritional Benefits
Zucchini is low in calories and rich in vitamin A, vitamin C, potassium, and antioxidants. Baked instead of fried, this recipe offers a lighter, heart-healthy option to satisfy savory snack cravings without the extra fat. The garlic aioli also brings antimicrobial benefits and flavor-enhancing tang.
🧊 Make-Ahead & Storage Tips
- ✅ Make-ahead: Bread the zucchini sticks and refrigerate for up to 4 hours before baking.
- ✅ Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- ✅ Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 375°F (190°C) or in an air fryer for best crispiness.
- ✅ Not freezer-friendly: Zucchini tends to get mushy after freezing—best enjoyed fresh.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use an air fryer instead of the oven?
Yes! Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crispy.
What dipping sauces go well besides aioli?
Try marinara, ranch, spicy mayo, or tzatziki for different flavor profiles.
How do I prevent soggy zucchini fries?
Pat zucchini dry before breading and leave space between each piece on the baking sheet. Don’t overcrowd!
Crispy, Flavorful, and Better-for-You 💚
Made these golden zucchini fries? 🥒💬 Let me know your favorite dips in the comments or tag your plate on Pinterest! A perfect bite every time—without the fryer guilt.
