How To Make Baked Zucchini Fries with Parmesan Cheese at Home

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 Baked zucchini fries with Parmesan cheese are a delicious and nutritious alternative to traditional French fries. This recipe transforms zucchini into crispy, flavorful fries that are perfect as a snack, appetizer, or even a side dish. With a crunchy exterior and a tender interior, these zucchini fries are a crowd-pleaser, and the addition of Parmesan cheese adds a savory and cheesy twist. The best part is that they are baked instead of fried, making them a healthier option without sacrificing taste.

Tips and Variations:

Tips:

1. Slice zucchini evenly: It's important to slice the zucchini into similar-sized strips to ensure even cooking. This way, all the fries will be crispy and tender at the same time.

2. Pat dry the zucchini: Before coating the zucchini strips, pat them dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture. This will help the coating adhere better and result in crispier fries.

3. Use fresh breadcrumbs or panko: Freshly made breadcrumbs or panko will provide a crunchier coating compared to store-bought ones. You can make fresh breadcrumbs by processing day-old bread in a food processor until coarse.

4. Adjust seasoning: Feel free to adjust the seasonings to your taste preferences. Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder for a spicy kick, or sprinkle some dried herbs like oregano or basil for added flavor.

5. Grease the baking sheet well: To prevent the zucchini fries from sticking to the baking sheet, make sure to grease it well with cooking spray or olive oil. This will also help in achieving a crispy texture.

Variations:

1. Gluten-free option: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers instead of regular breadcrumbs to make the recipe gluten-free.

2. Cheesy variation: If you're a cheese lover, consider adding additional cheese to the breadcrumb mixture. Mix in some shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese along with the Parmesan for extra cheesiness.

3. Herbed zucchini fries: Incorporate dried herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley into the breadcrumb mixture to infuse the zucchini fries with aromatic flavors.

4. Dipping sauce variations: Experiment with different dipping sauces to serve alongside the zucchini fries. Try spicy sriracha mayo, tangy barbecue sauce, or a creamy garlic Parmesan dip for added flavor.

5. Baked zucchini chips: Instead of cutting the zucchini into fry-like strips, thinly slice them using a mandoline or a sharp knife to create zucchini chips. Adjust the baking time accordingly to achieve a crispy texture.

Remember to keep an eye on the zucchini fries while baking to prevent them from burning. Cooking times may vary depending on the thickness of the zucchini and the oven temperature, so adjust accordingly.

These tips and variations will help you customize your baked zucchini fries with Parmesan cheese to suit your preferences and dietary needs. Enjoy the crispy, flavorful goodness of this healthier alternative to traditional fries!

Ingredients:

• - 2 medium zucchini
• - 1 cup breadcrumbs (regular or panko)
• - 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• - 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• - 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• - 1/4 teaspoon salt
• - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• - 2 large eggs, beaten
• - Cooking spray or olive oil for greasing

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray or olive oil.

2. Cut the zucchini into long, thin strips resembling the shape and size of French fries. Try to keep them relatively uniform in size for even cooking.

3. In a shallow dish, combine the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to evenly distribute the ingredients.

4. Dip each zucchini strip into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess egg to drip off. Then coat the zucchini strip in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing lightly to adhere the breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.

5. Place the coated zucchini fries on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a bit of space between each fry to ensure proper browning.

6. Bake the zucchini fries in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crisp. Flip them halfway through the baking time to ensure even browning.

7. Once the zucchini fries are cooked, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving.

8. Serve the baked zucchini fries with your favorite dipping sauce, such as marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or garlic aioli. Enjoy them as a snack, appetizer, or side dish.

These baked zucchini fries with Parmesan cheese are a healthier alternative to traditional fries, as they are not deep-fried. The zucchini retains its natural moisture while developing a satisfying crunch from the breadcrumb and Parmesan coating. It's a great way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet while still enjoying a delicious and satisfying snack.

Feel free to experiment with different seasonings and spices to customize the flavor of your zucchini fries. Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or Italian herbs to the breadcrumb mixture for a little extra kick. You can also try using different types of cheese, such as cheddar or mozzarella, in place of Parmesan for a unique twist.

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