Crispy Parmesan Garlic Zucchini Fries Baked to Perfection (Print version)

Golden baked zucchini fries with a crisp Parmesan garlic panko crust and tender centers.

# Ingredients:

For the zucchini fries

01 - 3 medium zucchini, about 1 1/2 lb (680 g)
02 - 1/2 cup (60 g) all-purpose flour
03 - 2 large eggs
04 - 1 tablespoon water
05 - 1 cup (60 g) panko breadcrumbs
06 - 3/4 cup (75 g) finely grated Parmesan cheese
07 - 1 teaspoon garlic powder
08 - 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
09 - 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
10 - 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt, divided
11 - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
12 - Cooking spray or 1 tablespoon olive oil for misting

For serving

13 - 1/2 cup (120 ml) marinara, ranch, or garlic yogurt dip
14 - 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, optional
15 - Lemon wedges, optional

# Instructions:

01 - Heat the oven to 425°F. Set a wire rack over a rimmed baking sheet and coat it lightly with cooking spray, or line the sheet with parchment.
02 - Trim the zucchini and cut each one into even sticks about 3 inches long and 1/2 inch thick. Pat dry with a clean towel.
03 - Add flour and 1/4 teaspoon salt to one shallow bowl. Whisk eggs with water in a second bowl. In a third bowl, mix panko, Parmesan, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, remaining salt, and pepper.
04 - Coat each zucchini stick lightly in flour, dip in egg, then press into the panko-Parmesan mixture until well coated on all sides.
05 - Place the breaded zucchini on the prepared rack or sheet in a single layer. Leave space between pieces and mist the tops with cooking spray or a very light drizzle of olive oil.
06 - Bake for 18-22 minutes, turning once if using parchment, until the coating is crisp and golden and the zucchini is tender.
07 - Sprinkle with parsley if using and serve right away with marinara, ranch, garlic yogurt dip, and lemon wedges.

# Good to know:

01 - Best eaten right after baking while the panko crust is crisp.
02 - For extra crispness, salt the cut zucchini for 10 minutes and pat dry before breading.
03 - Use a wire rack for better airflow under the fries.

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