Low-Calorie Air Fryer Zucchini Fries
Crispy, low-calorie zucchini fries made in an air fryer, perfect for a healthy snack or side dish.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Snack
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 3 medium zucchini
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (or almond flour for a low-carb option)
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 3/4 cup panko breadcrumbs (use gluten-free panko if needed)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan (optional)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt, divided
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1–2 tbsp olive oil or an oil spray
Instructions
- Trim the zucchini ends and cut each into sticks about 3 inches long and 1/2 inch thick. Lightly sprinkle them with 1/4 tsp of the salt and let sit for 10 minutes to draw out moisture. Pat dry thoroughly with paper towels.
- Set up a dredging station: bowl 1 — flour; bowl 2 — beaten eggs; bowl 3 — mix panko with Parmesan, garlic powder, smoked paprika, the remaining 1/4 tsp salt, and black pepper.
- One at a time, coat each zucchini stick in flour, shake off excess, dip into the egg, and then press into the panko mixture to adhere evenly. Press gently to form a good crust.
- Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 3 minutes.
- Lightly brush or spray the coated fries with olive oil. Arrange them in a single layer in the air fryer basket and cook for 8–10 minutes, flipping once halfway through, until golden and crisp.
- If you have more batches, keep finished fries warm in a low oven (about 200°F / 95°C) while the rest cook.
- Serve hot with your favorite dip.
Notes
Try using a paste of mayo and water as an egg replacer, or crushed pork rinds for a keto option. Ensure to pat zucchini dry after salting for better coating adherence.