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Crispy Air Fryer Zucchini Fries Recipe Easy Perfect Snack with Spicy Marinara

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These crispy air fryer zucchini fries feature a crunchy panko and parmesan coating paired with a fresh, spicy marinara sauce. They are quick, easy, and perfect for a tasty snack or appetizer.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 medium zucchinis, sliced into sticks about 3 inches long and ½ inch thick
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • ½ cup finely grated parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
  • 2 large eggs, beaten, room temperature
  • For the spicy marinara sauce:
  • 1 cup canned crushed tomatoes
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 cloves fresh garlic, minced
  • ½ teaspoon red chili flakes
  • A few fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Wash and dry the zucchinis thoroughly. Slice them into sticks about 3 inches long and ½ inch thick. Pat dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
  2. In one bowl, beat 2 large eggs until smooth. In another bowl, combine 1 cup panko breadcrumbs, ½ cup finely grated parmesan, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning, ½ teaspoon salt, and freshly cracked black pepper. Mix well.
  3. Dip each zucchini stick into the beaten eggs, letting excess drip off, then roll it in the breadcrumb mixture until evenly coated. Place coated sticks on a baking sheet. Repeat until all zucchini are coated.
  4. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and let it warm up for about 3 minutes.
  5. Arrange the coated zucchini sticks in a single layer in the air fryer basket—do not overcrowd. Cook at 400°F (200°C) for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until fries are golden and crispy.
  6. While the fries cook, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add 2 cloves minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned.
  7. Stir in 1 cup crushed tomatoes, ½ teaspoon red chili flakes, salt, and pepper to taste. Let simmer gently for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Stir in chopped fresh basil just before serving.
  8. Transfer the crispy zucchini fries to a serving platter and spoon the spicy marinara sauce into a small bowl for dipping. Serve immediately.

Notes

Dry zucchini well before coating to avoid soggy fries. Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket to ensure even crisping. Flip fries halfway through cooking. For extra crispiness, spray a little cooking oil before air frying if desired. Store leftovers in an airtight container and reheat in the air fryer to maintain crispness. Marinara sauce can be stored in the fridge for 4-5 days or frozen for up to 3 months.

Nutrition

Keywords: zucchini fries, air fryer, crispy zucchini, snack, appetizer, spicy marinara, easy recipe, healthy snack

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