Air Fryer Zucchini Fries
Crispy air fryer zucchini fries with a light panko-Parmesan crust. A quick salting step pulls out moisture so the coating turns golden and crunchy at 400°F. Great as a low-carb side, snack, or appetizer with your favorite dip.
Equipment
- Air fryer (6-quart)
- Wire rack accessory
- Three shallow bowls
- Paper towels
- Colander
Ingredients
- 1.5 pounds zucchini about 3 small or 2 large; remove seedy centers if using large
- 1 teaspoon salt for moisture removal
- 0.5 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs beaten
- 1 tablespoon water mix with eggs
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 0.5 cup Parmesan cheese grated
- 2 tablespoons Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 0.5 teaspoon salt for coating
Instructions
- Cut zucchini into fry shapes about 3 inches long and 1/2 inch thick; remove seedy centers if using large zucchini.
- Place zucchini in a colander, sprinkle with 1 teaspoon salt, and let sit for 10 minutes to draw out moisture.
- Pat zucchini completely dry with paper towels, pressing firmly to remove surface moisture.
- Set up three bowls: flour in the first; beaten eggs mixed with water in the second; panko, Parmesan, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and 1/2 teaspoon salt in the third.
- Dredge each fry in flour, dip in egg wash, then press into the panko mixture to coat all sides.
- Arrange coated fries in a single layer in the air fryer basket (use a wire rack if available) so pieces don’t touch.
- Air fry at 400°F for 10 to 12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until coating is golden brown and Parmesan smells toasted.
Notes
- Salting and thoroughly drying the zucchini is crucial for crispiness—skip it and the coating will steam and soften.
- For a keto version, replace panko with almond flour and start checking at 10 minutes since it browns faster.
- Double the Parmesan and sprinkle extra on top before cooking for an extra-cheesy crust.
- Add 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes to the coating for a spicy kick.
- Reheat leftovers in the air fryer at 375°F for about 4 minutes; avoid the microwave.
- Use a wire rack accessory to maximize airflow and even browning; keep fries in a single layer.