introduction
This recipe makes crunchy, low-carb zucchini fries in the air fryer. They are quick, lightly seasoned, and ready in about 10 minutes per batch. Serve them warm with your favorite dip.
why make this recipe
- Fast and easy to prepare.
- Uses almond flour and parmesan for a crisp, low-carb coating.
- Air frying uses little oil and gives a crisp outside and a tender inside.
- Great as a snack, side, or kid-friendly finger food.
how to make Air Fryer Zucchini Fries
Follow the steps below. Work in small batches so the fries cook evenly in the air fryer.
Ingredients :
- 2 medium zucchini
- 1 large egg
- 1/3 cup blanched almond flour
- 1/2 cup shredded parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- Olive oil cooking spray
Directions :
Cut the zucchini. To cut the zucchini into fries, slice off the ends of each zucchini, then slice each one right in half, by placing a large kitchen knife on the center and slicing through. Then cut each half in half lengthwise and cut them into fries that are 3-4 inches long and about 1/2 inch thick.
Prepare the coating mixture. In a shallow bowl, crack and whisk the egg and season it with salt and pepper. In a separate shallow bowl, combine the almond flour with the parmesan cheese, garlic, paprika, parsley, salt, and pepper.
Coat the zucchini fries. Set up a dredging area to coat the fries. Place the bowls with the egg and the coating next to the cut zucchini fries. Then coat each piece of zucchini in egg and then in the almond flour mixture, pressing the coating into the zucchini as you coat it. Place the coated zucchini fries onto a plate or baking sheet. Continue coating all of the zucchini.
Cook the zucchini fries. Preheat the air fryer to 400 degrees F and spray the air fryer basket well with olive oil spray. Working in batches, place some of the zucchini fries in a single layer into the air fryer basket and spray them well with more olive oil spray. Close the basket and cook them for 4 minutes. Then flip them over, spray them well again with the olive oil spray and cook them for 4 more minutes. Place them onto a plate or platter. Continue until you have cooked all of the zucchini.
Serve. You will want to serve these warm with your favorite dipping sauce. See the post for dipping sauce recommendations.
how to serve Air Fryer Zucchini Fries
Serve warm on a platter. They go well with marinara, ranch, or a lemon-garlic yogurt dip. Offer napkins — they are best eaten right away.
how to store Air Fryer Zucchini Fries
Cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 3–5 minutes to crisp them again. Avoid the microwave; it makes them soggy.
tips to make Air Fryer Zucchini Fries
- Dry the zucchini pieces with a paper towel before coating to help the coating stick.
- Press the coating into the zucchini so it stays on during cooking.
- Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket. Cook in a single layer for best crisping.
- Spray oil on the coating, not just the basket, for a golden crust.
- Adjust cooking time slightly for thicker or thinner fries.
variation (if any)
- Swap almond flour for panko or regular flour for a different texture (not low-carb).
- Add 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning or a pinch of cayenne for more flavor.
- Use grated pecorino Romano instead of parmesan for a sharper taste.
FAQs
Q: Can I make these without an egg?
A: You can use a beaten egg substitute like a mixture of water and 1 tablespoon of cornstarch, but the egg helps the coating stick best.
Q: Can I bake them instead of air frying?
A: Yes. Bake on a lined sheet at 425°F for 12–18 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crisp.
Q: Will the almond flour burn in the air fryer?
A: Almond flour can brown quickly. Use the suggested temperature and watch the first batch. Lightly spray with oil and do not overcook.
Q: Can I use frozen zucchini?
A: Fresh is best. Frozen zucchini releases water and makes the coating soggy.
Q: How do I keep them crispy after cooking?
A: Place cooked fries on a wire rack, not a plate, to keep air circulating and avoid steam softening the crust.
Conclusion
For another simple version and extra tips, see Quick and Easy Air Fryer Zucchini Fries | The Recipe Critic.