Baked Zucchini Fries

Baked Zucchini Fries are a crunchy, flavorful alternative to traditional fries, perfect for anyone looking for a low-carb, gluten-free snack or side dish. Coated in a savory blend of parmesan cheese, almond flour, and herbs, these oven-baked fries deliver a crisp exterior with a tender zucchini center. They’re quick to prepare, family-friendly, and ideal for dipping into your favorite low-carb sauce.

Ingredients

• 2 medium zucchini
• 2 large eggs
• ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
• ¼ cup almond flour
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1½ teaspoons dried parsley
• Salt, to taste
• Black pepper, to taste

Instructions

• Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
• Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
• Whisk eggs in a small bowl until fully combined.
• In a separate bowl, mix parmesan cheese, almond flour, Italian seasoning, parsley, salt, and pepper.
• Cut zucchini into evenly sized wedges or sticks.
• Dip each zucchini piece into the egg mixture, then coat well in the parmesan mixture.
• Arrange zucchini fries in a single layer on the baking sheet.
• Bake for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crispy.
• Remove from oven and serve warm with low-carb tomato sauce or preferred dip.

Serving and Storage Tips

• Serve immediately for the crispiest texture.
• Pair with low-carb marinara, garlic aioli, ranch, or yogurt-based dips.
• For extra crunch, broil for 1–2 minutes at the end of baking.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat in the oven or air fryer to restore crispiness; avoid microwaving.

Variations

1. Air Fryer Zucchini Fries
   Cook at 400°F for 10–12 minutes, shaking halfway for extra crispiness.
2. Spicy Zucchini Fries
   Add ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper or chili powder to the coating.
3. Garlic Parmesan Zucchini Fries
   Mix ½ teaspoon garlic powder into the parmesan coating.
4. Italian Herb Zucchini Fries
   Add oregano, basil, and thyme for a stronger Italian flavor.
5. Cheesy Mozzarella Zucchini Fries
   Replace half the parmesan with shredded mozzarella for a gooier bite.
6. Panko-Crusted Version (Not Low Carb)
   Swap almond flour for panko breadcrumbs for a classic crunch.
7. Lemon Herb Zucchini Fries
   Add lemon zest to the coating and serve with lemon aioli.
8. Ranch-Seasoned Zucchini Fries
   Use ranch seasoning instead of Italian seasoning.
9. Cajun Zucchini Fries
   Add Cajun seasoning for bold, smoky flavor.
10. Gluten-Free Dairy-Free Version
    Replace parmesan with nutritional yeast.
11. Zucchini Chips Style
    Slice zucchini thin rounds instead of wedges for crispy chips.
12. Cheddar Zucchini Fries
    Use finely grated sharp cheddar for a richer taste.
13. Mediterranean Zucchini Fries
    Add dried oregano and serve with tzatziki sauce.
14. Everything Bagel Zucchini Fries
    Sprinkle everything bagel seasoning into the coating.
15. Buffalo Zucchini Fries
    Serve with buffalo sauce and blue cheese or ranch dip.

FAQs

1. Are baked zucchini fries low carb?
   Yes, especially when made with almond flour and parmesan cheese.
2. Can I make these ahead of time?
   You can prep them ahead, but bake just before serving for best texture.
3. Why are my zucchini fries soggy?
   Overcrowding the pan or excess moisture can prevent crisping.
4. Do I need to peel the zucchini?
   No, the skin adds texture and nutrients.
5. Can I freeze zucchini fries?
   Freezing is not recommended as zucchini releases excess moisture.
6. What dipping sauces work best?
   Low-carb marinara, garlic aioli, ranch, or spicy mayo work well.
7. Can I use yellow squash instead?
   Yes, yellow squash works similarly to zucchini.
8. How do I make them extra crispy?
   Use a wire rack on the baking sheet and flip halfway through baking.
9. Is almond flour required?
   It helps keep the recipe low carb, but breadcrumbs can be substituted.
10. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
    Yes, substitute parmesan with nutritional yeast.

These Baked Zucchini Fries are proof that healthy snacks can still be satisfying and full of flavor. With minimal prep time and simple ingredients, they’re perfect for busy weeknights, game-day snacks, or a nutritious side dish. Once you try them, they’ll quickly earn a permanent spot in your recipe rotation.

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