Low Calorie Air Fryer Zucchini Fries are a light, crispy, and guilt-free alternative to traditional fries. Coated in a flavorful breadcrumb and Parmesan mixture, these fries come out golden and crunchy on the outside and tender on the inside—without needing deep frying. They’re the perfect snack, appetizer, or side dish when I want something savory, satisfying, and still healthy.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love how these zucchini fries hit that salty, crispy craving without all the oil. They’re easy to make in the air fryer, and I can customize the seasonings to match whatever I’m in the mood for. Plus, they’re a great way to use up extra zucchini and sneak more veggies into my day in a fun, snackable form.
Ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
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Fresh zucchini (cut into sticks or spears)
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Egg (for coating)
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Panko breadcrumbs
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Grated Parmesan cheese
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Garlic powder
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Paprika
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Salt and pepper
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Cooking spray or olive oil spray (for crispiness)
Directions
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I slice the zucchini into even sticks—about the size of thick fries.
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In one bowl, I whisk the egg. In another, I mix panko, Parmesan, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
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I dip each zucchini stick into the egg, then coat it in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing lightly so it sticks.
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I preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
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I place the fries in a single layer in the air fryer basket, making sure not to overcrowd.
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I spray the tops with cooking spray and air fry for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.
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I serve them hot with dipping sauce like marinara, ranch, or a light garlic yogurt dip.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes about 2–3 servings. It takes 10 minutes to prep and 10 minutes to cook, so it’s ready in just 20 minutes.
Variations
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I make them gluten-free by using gluten-free breadcrumbs.
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For dairy-free, I skip the Parmesan or use a dairy-free alternative.
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I add Italian seasoning or cayenne for extra flavor or spice.
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I dip them in hummus or hot sauce for a different twist.
Storage/Reheating
These are best fresh, but I store leftovers in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, I pop them back into the air fryer for 3–4 minutes to bring back the crispiness. I avoid microwaving since it makes them soggy.
FAQs
Can I make these without egg?
Yes, I dip the zucchini in plant-based milk or a mixture of flour and water as a binder instead.
What type of zucchini works best?
I use firm, medium-sized zucchini. If it’s too large, it may be watery and less crispy.
Can I bake these in the oven?
Yes, I bake at 425°F (220°C) for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway. They won’t be quite as crispy as air fried, but still delicious.
Why are my fries soggy?
I make sure to pat the zucchini dry before breading and avoid overcrowding the air fryer so air can circulate properly.
What dipping sauces go well with these?
I like serving them with marinara, spicy ketchup, ranch, garlic aioli, or even tzatziki for a fresh, tangy dip.
Conclusion
Low Calorie Air Fryer Zucchini Fries are the perfect crunchy snack or side dish that lets me indulge without overdoing it. They’re simple, flavorful, and always hit the spot when I want something crispy and satisfying. Whether I serve them as a party snack or a healthy weeknight side, these fries are always a favorite in my kitchen.
