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Deliciously Crispy Air Fryer Zucchini Fries

If you’re looking for a healthy yet indulgent snack or a side dish that everyone will enjoy, look no further than air fryer zucchini fries. These delightful bites are not only a great way to sneak in some extra vegetables but also offer a satisfying crunch without the guilt of deep-frying. Whether you’re a health-conscious eater or simply a fan of tasty treats, these zucchini fries are bound to become a family favourite.

Why Choose Air Fryer Zucchini Fries?

Air frying has become an increasingly popular cooking method, and for good reason. This technique uses hot air circulation to cook food, resulting in a texture that mimics frying but with significantly less oil. By using an air fryer, you can enjoy your zucchini fries with a fraction of the calories and fat compared to traditional frying. They’re not just healthier; they’re also quicker to prepare, making them an excellent option for busy weeknights or impromptu gatherings.

Ingredients

To whip up a batch of crispy air fryer zucchini fries, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 2 medium zucchini
• ½ cup plain flour (or gluten-free flour, if desired)
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko breadcrumbs work particularly well for extra crunch)
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional but recommended for added flavour)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Cooking spray or olive oil for greasing the air fryer basket

Feel free to customise the seasoning according to your tastes. Paprika, Italian herbs, or even a pinch of cayenne can enhance the flavour profile wonderfully.

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Zucchini

Begin by washing and trimming the ends of the zucchini. Cut each zucchini into even strips, approximately 1 cm wide. To ensure they cook evenly, try to keep the sizes as uniform as possible.

Step 2: Set Up the Breading Station

In three separate bowls, prepare your breading station:

1. Flour Bowl: Add the plain flour and season it with a pinch of salt and pepper.
2. Egg Bowl: Crack the eggs into a bowl and whisk them until fully mixed.
3. Breadcrumb Bowl: Combine the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, and any additional seasonings you prefer.

Step 3: Bread the Zucchini Strips

Take each zucchini strip and first coat it in the flour, shaking off any excess. Next, dip it into the egg mixture, allowing any surplus to drip off before finally coating it with the breadcrumb mixture. Press the breadcrumbs onto the zucchini to make sure they adhere well. Repeat this process for all the zucchini strips.

Step 4: Air Fry the Zucchini Fries

Preheat your air fryer to 190°C (375°F). Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray or drizzle some olive oil to prevent sticking. Arrange the breaded zucchini fries in a single layer in the basket, making sure not to overcrowd them; you may need to cook them in batches.

Cook for about 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through the cooking time to ensure an even crispiness. Keep a close eye on them—cooking times may vary depending on your air fryer model and thickness of the fries.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Once the zucchini fries are golden brown and crispy, remove them from the air fryer and let them cool for a few minutes. Serve them warm with your favourite dipping sauce, whether it be marinara, ranch, or a zesty tzatziki.

Final Thoughts

Air fryer zucchini fries are not only simple to make but also offer a delicious way to enjoy this versatile vegetable. They’re perfect as a snack, an appetiser, or a side dish that can elevate any meal. Plus, with the ability to customise the seasoning and dipping sauces, you can tailor them to suit any palate. So, grab some zucchinis and an air fryer, and get ready to savour this crispy goodness!

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