Biting into a crispy zucchini fry is like experiencing summer’s garden bounty in every crunchy, golden morsel. These delightful treats transform an often-overlooked vegetable into a finger-licking snack that satisfies even the most discerning palate. Growing up, my family would make a big batch of zucchini fries during summer BBQs, a tradition that always brought smiles and empty plates.
This recipe stands out because it uses simple ingredients—fresh zucchini, a light coating of breadcrumbs, and your favorite spices—creating a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. The subtle sweetness of the zucchini pairs perfectly with the crispy exterior, while a hint of garlic and a sprinkle of nutritional yeast elevate each bite.
They’re baked, not fried, ensuring a guilt-free indulgence that’s both satisfying and nutritious. Perfect for dipping in marinara sauce or enjoying alongside a refreshing glass of Vodka Margarita, these zucchini fries are a must-try for any occasion!
Feel free to share your own twists or favorite dipping sauces—let’s celebrate the versatility of this incredible veggie together!
Why I Love This Recipe?
- Quick and Easy: Making these zucchini fries is a breeze, allowing me to whip up a delicious snack in no time. I love how they fit seamlessly into my busy lifestyle.
- Endless Variations: I’ve experimented with different seasonings, from spicy cayenne to herby Italian blends, and each batch turns out uniquely tasty. It’s a fun way to mix things up!
- Family Favorite: These fries are a hit with both kids and adults at family gatherings. I appreciate how they’re a healthier alternative to traditional fries, making everyone happy.
- Great for Leftovers: Any leftovers reheat well in the oven, maintaining their crispiness and flavor. They make for a perfect addition to lunchboxes the next day!
Overview: How To Make Vegan Zucchini Fries?
Step 1: Prepare the Zucchini
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Wash and cut the zucchini into even wedges, leaving the skin on. Salt generously and let sit on paper towels for 15 minutes. Rinse and dry again.
Step 2: Coat the Zucchini
In one bowl, mix Panko breadcrumbs and nutritional yeast. In another bowl, whisk together almond milk and mustard. Dip each zucchini wedge in the milk mixture, then coat with the breadcrumb mixture.
Step 3: Bake or Air Fry
Place the breaded zucchini on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 35 minutes. For air frying, arrange a single layer in the air fryer and cook at 370°F (190°C) for 10 minutes, flipping halfway through. Enjoy with your favorite dipping sauces!
Vegan Zucchini Fries
Equipment
- Ait fryer
Ingredients
- Salt
- 1/2 cup Nutritional Yeast
- 3/4 cup Bread Crumbs
- 3/4 cup unsweetened, unflavored plant-based milk
- 2 medium firm zucchinis, cut into long wedges, ½ inch
- 3 tbsp Dijon Mustard
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Wash and cut zucchini into uniform wedges, leaving the skin on.
- Generously salt the zucchini and let it sit on paper towels for 15 minutes, then rinse and dry again.
- In one bowl, mix Panko breadcrumbs and nutritional yeast.
- In another bowl, whisk together almond milk and mustard.
- Dip each zucchini wedge in the milk mixture, then coat with the breadcrumb mixture.
- Place the breaded zucchini on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, ensuring they are spaced apart.
- Bake for 35 minutes.
- For air frying, arrange a single layer of breaded zucchini in the air fryer and cook at 370°F (190°C) for 10 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Repeat until all fries are cooked.
Notes
- For those avoiding salt for health reasons, the salt in this recipe is applied only during the zucchini preparation.
- Before making the vegan zucchini fries, the salt is rinsed off, and the zucchini is dried before dipping into the mixtures in the bowls.
Nutrition Facts:
| Nutrition | Value |
|---|---|
| Calories | 124 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 21 g |
| Protein | 7 g |
| Vitamin A | 204 IU |
| Vitamin C | 18 mg |
| Iron | 2 mg |
| Sugar | 4 g |
| Calcium | 60 mg |
What To Serve With Vegan Zucchini Fries?
Can I use other vegetables instead of zucchini?
Absolutely! You can substitute zucchini with vegetables like eggplant, carrots, or sweet potatoes. Just adjust the cooking time as needed, since different vegetables may have varying moisture content and cooking times.
How do I store leftover zucchini fries?
Store any leftover zucchini fries in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, bake them in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes to restore their crispiness.
Can I make these zucchini fries gluten-free?
Yes! Simply use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers as a coating. You can also use almond flour or chickpea flour for a different texture while keeping the recipe gluten-free.