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Crispy Parmesan Zucchini Fries Recipe with Easy Garlic Aioli Dip

crispy Parmesan zucchini fries - featured image

These crispy Parmesan zucchini fries feature a crunchy, cheesy crust paired with a rich, garlicky aioli dip. Perfect as a quick snack or appetizer, they offer a satisfying and flavorful alternative to traditional fries.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 medium zucchini (about 24 ounces / 680 grams), sliced into sticks about 3 inches long and ¼ inch thick
  • 1 cup (100 g) grated Parmesan cheese (Parmigiano-Reggiano recommended)
  • 1 cup (60 g) panko breadcrumbs
  • 2 large eggs, beaten (room temperature)
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • ½ cup (120 ml) olive oil or avocado oil, for frying
  • ½ cup (120 g) mayonnaise
  • 2 cloves garlic, finely minced or pressed
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Optional: 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

Instructions

  1. Wash and dry the zucchinis thoroughly. Cut each zucchini into sticks roughly 3 inches long and about ¼ inch thick. Set aside.
  2. In a large bowl, combine grated Parmesan, panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and black pepper. Stir well.
  3. In a separate bowl, beat the two eggs until smooth to prepare the egg wash.
  4. Dip each zucchini stick first into the egg wash, letting excess drip off, then roll in the Parmesan-panko mixture, pressing gently to adhere. Double-dip by repeating the egg wash and coating once more for extra crispiness.
  5. Heat ½ cup of oil in a heavy-bottomed skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering but not smoking (around 350°F / 175°C).
  6. Fry zucchini sticks in a single layer without overcrowding for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy. Flip gently with tongs.
  7. Remove fries with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels or a wire rack. Sprinkle lightly with salt while hot.
  8. While frying, whisk together mayonnaise, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, pepper, and Dijon mustard (if using) in a small bowl. Let sit for 10 minutes to meld flavors.
  9. Serve the crispy Parmesan zucchini fries hot with the garlic aioli dip.

Notes

Dry zucchini thoroughly before coating to ensure crispiness. Fry in small batches to maintain oil temperature and avoid soggy fries. Double-dip zucchini sticks for a sturdier crust. Use a wire rack in a warm oven to keep fries crispy if needed. Let garlic aioli sit for 10 minutes before serving to develop flavor. For a gluten-free option, substitute panko with almond flour or gluten-free panko. For dairy-free, replace Parmesan with nutritional yeast and use vegan mayo.

Nutrition

Keywords: zucchini fries, Parmesan fries, garlic aioli, crispy zucchini, snack recipe, appetizer, easy recipe, fried zucchini, healthy snack