Discover the ultimate recipe for Air Fryer Zucchini Fries – a guilt-free, crunchy delight that’s perfect for snacking or as an appetizer. Paired with a rich, creamy garlic aioli, these fries are loaded with flavor and texture. Made with simple ingredients like zucchini, parmesan, and panko breadcrumbs, this recipe is a healthier alternative to traditional fries. Perfectly golden and seasoned, these zucchini fries are air-fried for maximum crispiness with minimal oil.
Whether you’re looking for a quick snack, a kid-friendly veggie recipe, or a tasty side dish, this recipe fits the bill. It’s customizable with gluten-free and dairy-free options, making it a versatile choice for any dietary preference. Plus, it’s easy to make and ready in under 30 minutes!
Try these crispy zucchini fries today for a satisfying snack that’s sure to impress your family and friends. Don’t forget the zesty garlic aioli dipping sauce – it’s the perfect finishing touch!

Ingredients
For the Garlic Aioli Dipping Sauce
- ¾ cup Mayonnaise
- 3 cloves Garlic (minced)
- 2 tablespoons Lemon Juice
- ¾ teaspoon Salt (adjust to taste)
For the Zucchini
- 1 Large Zucchini
- Salt (enough to generously coat zucchini for sweating)
For the Zucchini Fries
- 1 cup Panko Breadcrumbs
- 1 tablespoon Italian Seasoning
- ½ cup Freshly Grated Parmesan Cheese
- ½ teaspoon Garlic Powder
- Pinch of Salt (to taste)
- Pinch of Freshly Ground Black Pepper (to taste)
- 2 Large Eggs
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Garlic Aioli
- In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, minced garlic, lemon juice, and salt.
- Mix until well blended, cover, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Step 2: Prep the Zucchini
- Cut the zucchini in half crosswise. Slice each half into sticks approximately ½-inch thick and ¾-inch long.
- Place zucchini sticks in a large bowl and sprinkle generously with salt. Toss to coat evenly.
- Let the zucchini “sweat” at room temperature for 30 minutes to draw out moisture.
- After 30 minutes, transfer zucchini sticks to paper towels. Blot thoroughly to remove moisture. Optionally, rinse off excess salt and dry again.
Step 3: Bread the Zucchini Fries
- Preheat the air fryer to 400°F.
- In a large bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- In a second bowl, whisk the eggs until pale and smooth.
- Dip each zucchini stick into the beaten eggs, allowing excess egg to drip off.
- Roll the zucchini in the breadcrumb mixture until fully coated. Place on a plate or baking sheet. Repeat until all zucchini sticks are breaded.
Step 4: Cook the Zucchini Fries
- Spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray. Arrange the breaded zucchini in a single layer, avoiding overcrowding. Spray the tops lightly with cooking spray.
- Air fry for 10 minutes, then flip the fries using tongs. Air fry for another 5 minutes, or until golden and crispy.
- Repeat with remaining zucchini fries.
- Serve warm with garlic aioli or your favorite dipping sauce.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Healthier Alternative: Enjoy the crunch of fried zucchini without the oil and calories.
- Bursting with Flavor: Parmesan, Italian seasoning, and garlic create a taste explosion.
- Kid-Friendly: A fun way to sneak in veggies for picky eaters.
Tips
- Sweat the Zucchini: This step removes excess moisture for crispier fries.
- Don’t Skip the Spray: Lightly spraying the fries ensures even browning.
- Avoid Overcrowding: Cook in batches for the best results.
Variations and Substitutions
- Seasonings: Swap Italian seasoning for Cajun spices or smoked paprika for a different flavor.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs instead of panko.
- Cheese-Free: Omit parmesan and increase spices for a dairy-free version.
FAQs
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! Bread the zucchini in advance and refrigerate until ready to air fry.
What if I don’t have an air fryer?
Bake the zucchini fries in a preheated oven at 425°F for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
How do I store leftovers?
Store cooked zucchini fries in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in the air fryer for a few minutes to restore crispiness.
Serving and Suggestions
- As an Appetizer: Serve with garlic aioli, marinara sauce, or ranch dressing.
- As a Side Dish: Pair with grilled chicken, burgers, or pasta dishes.
- As a Snack: Enjoy these zucchini fries as a satisfying midday treat!
Enjoy this flavorful, crispy, and healthier take on fries with a creamy garlic aioli dipping sauce for the perfect pairing!
Air Fryer Zucchini Fries with Garlic Aioli
4
servings10
minutes15
minutesIngredients
For the Garlic Aioli Dipping Sauce
¾ cup Mayonnaise
3 cloves Garlic (minced)
2 tablespoons Lemon Juice
¾ teaspoon Salt (adjust to taste)
For the Zucchini
1 Large Zucchini
Salt (enough to generously coat zucchini for sweating)
For the Zucchini Fries
1 cup Panko Breadcrumbs
1 tablespoon Italian Seasoning
½ cup Freshly Grated Parmesan Cheese
½ teaspoon Garlic Powder
Pinch of Salt (to taste)
Pinch of Freshly Ground Black Pepper (to taste)
2 Large Eggs
Directions
- Step 1: Prepare the Garlic Aioli
- In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, minced garlic, lemon juice, and salt.
- Mix until well blended, cover, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Step 2: Prep the Zucchini
- Cut the zucchini in half crosswise. Slice each half into sticks approximately ½-inch thick and ¾-inch long.
- Place zucchini sticks in a large bowl and sprinkle generously with salt. Toss to coat evenly.
- Let the zucchini “sweat” at room temperature for 30 minutes to draw out moisture.
- After 30 minutes, transfer zucchini sticks to paper towels. Blot thoroughly to remove moisture. Optionally, rinse off excess salt and dry again.
- Step 3: Bread the Zucchini Fries
- Preheat the air fryer to 400°F.
- In a large bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- In a second bowl, whisk the eggs until pale and smooth.
- Dip each zucchini stick into the beaten eggs, allowing excess egg to drip off.
- Roll the zucchini in the breadcrumb mixture until fully coated. Place on a plate or baking sheet. Repeat until all zucchini sticks are breaded.
- Step 4: Cook the Zucchini Fries
- Spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray. Arrange the breaded zucchini in a single layer, avoiding overcrowding. Spray the tops lightly with cooking spray.
- Air fry for 10 minutes, then flip the fries using tongs. Air fry for another 5 minutes, or until golden and crispy.
- Repeat with remaining zucchini fries.
- Serve warm with garlic aioli or your favorite dipping sauce.
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