Air fryer zucchini fries are a delicious and healthy alternative to traditional potato fries. This recipe transforms zucchini into crispy, golden-brown goodness with just a fraction of the oil and calories. These vegan zucchini fries are incredibly easy to make and perfect as a tasty snack or a satisfying side dish.
Why You’ll Love These Air Fryer Zucchini Fries
- Healthier Indulgence: Enjoy the satisfying crunch of fries without the guilt. Air frying requires minimal oil, making them a lower-calorie option.
- Quick and Easy: With just a few simple steps and minimal prep time, you’ll have crispy zucchini fries ready in under 20 minutes.
- Versatile Flavor: Customize your zucchini fries with your favorite seasonings. From classic Italian herbs to spicy chili powder, the possibilities are endless.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 2 medium zucchini, ends trimmed
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup nutritional yeast (for a cheesy flavor)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup unsweetened almond milk (or other plant-based milk)
- Cooking spray
Let’s Make Some Zucchini Fries!
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Prep the Zucchini: Wash and dry the zucchini thoroughly. Slice them into fries about 1/2-inch thick. For best results, try to keep the fries relatively uniform in size.
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Create the Breading: In a shallow dish, whisk together the all-purpose flour, nutritional yeast, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. In a separate shallow dish, pour the almond milk.
Mixing dry ingredients for zucchini fries in a bowl -
Coat the Zucchini: Dip each zucchini fry into the almond milk, ensuring it’s fully coated. Then, dredge the fry in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to help the coating adhere. Repeat with the remaining zucchini fries.
Dipping zucchini fries in batter before air frying -
Air Fry to Perfection: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Lightly coat the air fryer basket with cooking spray. Arrange the breaded zucchini fries in a single layer in the basket, ensuring they are not overcrowded. Air fry for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
Air frying zucchini fries in a basket -
Serve Immediately: Remove the crispy zucchini fries from the air fryer and serve them hot with your favorite dipping sauces.
Plated crispy air-fried zucchini fries with dipping sauces
Dipping zucchini fries in batter before air frying
Air frying zucchini fries in a basket
Plated crispy air-fried zucchini fries with dipping saucesTips for the Best Vegan Zucchini Fries
- Don’t Overcrowd the Air Fryer: Arrange the zucchini fries in a single layer to ensure even cooking and maximum crispiness.
- Flip for Even Browning: Flipping the fries halfway through the cooking process helps them achieve a beautiful golden-brown color on all sides.
- Seasoning Variations: Get creative with your seasonings! Try adding smoked paprika, Italian herbs, or a pinch of cayenne pepper for an extra kick.
- Dipping Sauce Delights: Pair your zucchini fries with vegan ranch, chipotle mayo, or a classic marinara sauce for a flavor-packed experience.
FAQs about Vegan Zucchini Fries
Q: Can I make these zucchini fries without an air fryer?
A: Absolutely! You can bake them in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Q: How do I store leftover air fryer zucchini fries?
A: Allow the fries to cool completely, then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat them in the air fryer or oven for best results.
Q: Can I use a different type of flour for the breading?
A: Yes, you can experiment with other flours like whole wheat flour or gluten-free all-purpose flour.
Q: What are some healthy dipping sauce options?
A: Try Greek yogurt-based dips, hummus, or guacamole for lighter and healthier options.
Q: Can I freeze zucchini fries before air frying?
A: While you can freeze them, it’s not recommended as it can impact their texture. It’s best to enjoy them fresh for optimal crispiness.
Enjoy Your Crispy Vegan Zucchini Fries!
These vegan air fryer zucchini fries are a testament to how delicious healthy eating can be. They’re a fantastic way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet without sacrificing flavor or satisfaction. Whether you’re looking for a lighter snack or a crowd-pleasing side dish, these zucchini fries are sure to become a new favorite. So grab your zucchini and get ready to air fry your way to crispy, golden-brown perfection!
