Ingredients:

  • 3 medium zucchini (approx. 1.5 lbs / 680g), cut into 3-inch sticks
  • 1 tsp (6g) kosher salt
  • 1/2 cup (65g) all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 1 cup (60g) Panko breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tsp (2g) garlic powder
  • 1 tsp (2g) smoked paprika
  • 1/2 tsp (1g) black pepper
  • 2 tbsp (30ml) olive oil or avocado oil spray

Instructions:

  1. Toss the zucchini sticks with kosher salt in a colander and let them sit for 10–15 minutes to draw out excess moisture.
  2. Pat each zucchini stick thoroughly dry with paper towels to ensure the breading adheres and crisps.
  3. Set up a dredging station with three bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with a mixture of Panko, Parmesan, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and black pepper.
  4. Dip each zucchini stick into the flour (shaking off excess), then the egg, and finally press firmly into the Panko mixture until fully coated.
  5. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
  6. Arrange the fries in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they do not overlap, and lightly spray the tops with oil.
  7. Cook for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the fries are mahogany-colored and rigid.