If you love crispy fries but want a healthier alternative, these Air Fryer Zucchini Fries are the perfect choice! They’re light, crunchy, and packed with flavor—all while being low in carbs and much healthier than traditional fries.
This easy recipe is great for meal prep, perfect for dipping, and can be customized with your favorite seasonings. Get ready to enjoy a crispy snack without the guilt!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Crispy & Delicious: Achieves perfect crispiness without deep frying.
- Low-Carb & Healthy: A great alternative to regular fries.
- Quick & Easy: Ready in under 20 minutes using an air fryer.
- Perfect for Dipping: Pairs well with various sauces.
Ingredients Breakdown
For the Zucchini Fries:
- 2 medium zucchinis, cut into fry-shaped strips
- 1 cup almond flour (or panko breadcrumbs for a non-keto option)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- Cooking spray or olive oil
Optional Add-Ins:
- ½ tsp Italian seasoning for extra flavor
- ¼ tsp cayenne pepper for a spicy kick
- 1 tbsp nutritional yeast for a dairy-free cheesy taste
Substitutions:
- Swap almond flour for crushed pork rinds for extra crunch.
- Use gluten-free breadcrumbs if avoiding gluten.
- Replace Parmesan with vegan cheese for a dairy-free version.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prep the Zucchini:
- Slice zucchinis into fries, ensuring they are evenly cut for even cooking.
- Pat them dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.
2. Coat the Fries:
- In one bowl, whisk the eggs.
- In another bowl, mix almond flour, Parmesan, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Dip each zucchini fry into the egg, then coat it with the flour mixture.
3. Air Fry:
- Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
- Arrange the zucchini fries in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
- Lightly spray with cooking oil for extra crispiness.
- Air fry for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.
Meal Prep Tip:
Store uncooked coated zucchini fries in the fridge for up to 24 hours before air frying.
Nutritional Info Per Serving
Calories: 180 | Protein: 10g | Carbs: 6g | Fat: 12g
Note: Values may vary based on ingredient brands.
Serving Suggestions & Topping Ideas
- Pair with: Ranch dressing, marinara sauce, or garlic aioli for dipping.
- Extra Toppings: Sprinkle with fresh parsley, more Parmesan, or red pepper flakes.
- Make it a Meal: Serve alongside grilled chicken or a fresh salad.
FAQs
Can I make these in the oven?
Yes! Bake at 425°F (220°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
How long do these stay crispy?
They are best eaten fresh but can be reheated in the air fryer for 3-5 minutes at 375°F (190°C).
Are these keto-friendly?
Yes! Using almond flour makes them low-carb and keto-friendly.
Enjoy these crispy Air Fryer Zucchini Fries for a healthy, satisfying snack or side dish!