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Crispy air fryer smoked paprika zucchini fries with a golden panko and Parmesan crust in a hammered metal bowl

Air Fryer Smoked Paprika Zucchini Fries

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Tender zucchini strips coated in a seasoned panko and Parmesan crust, then air fried until golden and crisp. A lighter alternative to classic fries that works as a side dish or appetizer.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Appetizer, Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Calories: 200

Ingredients
  

  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 cup plain panko breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/2 tsp kosher salt
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 2 medium zucchini
  • Olive oil spray

Equipment

  • Air Fryer
  • Parchment Paper or perforated air fryer liners
  • Cutting board
  • Chef's knife
  • Spoon for scooping the seeds
  • 3 shallow bowls
  • Whisk or fork

Method
 

  1. Place 1/2 cup flour in a shallow bowl.
    1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  2. In a second shallow bowl, whisk 2 eggs until smooth.
    2 large eggs
  3. In a third shallow bowl, stir together 1 cup plain panko breadcrumbs, 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, 1/2 tsp smoked paprika, 1/2 tsp kosher salt, and 1 tsp Italian seasoning.
    1 cup plain panko breadcrumbs, 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, 1/2 tsp smoked paprika, 1 tsp Italian seasoning, 1/2 tsp kosher salt
  4. Halve 2 zucchini lengthwise and scoop out the seeds. Cut each half crosswise, then slice into strips about 1/2 inch thick.
    2 medium zucchini
  5. Dredge each strip in flour, shaking off the excess. Dip it in the beaten egg, letting any extra drip off, then press it into the breadcrumb mixture to coat evenly on all sides.
  6. Line the air fryer basket with parchment paper and arrange the strips in a single layer, leaving a little space between them.
  7. Lightly coat the tops of the strips with olive oil spray.
    Olive oil spray
  8. Air fry at 400°F for 10 minutes, until the coating is golden brown and crisp.

Nutrition

Calories: 200kcalCarbohydrates: 26gProtein: 10gFat: 6gSaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 98mgSodium: 320mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 510IUVitamin C: 16mgCalcium: 100mgIron: 2.2mg

Notes

  • Work in batches: Don't overcrowd the basket. Strips need space around them to crisp evenly.
  • Parchment safety: Only put the parchment in the basket once the zucchini is on it. Loose parchment can lift into the heating element.
  • Serving: These are best served right away while crispy. Marinara, garlic aioli, or ranch make good dipping sauces.

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