Baked Parmesan Crusted Zucchini Fries

Ingredients
For the Zucchini Fries:
2 medium zucchinis, cut into sticks π₯
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
2 large eggs, beaten π₯
1 cup panko breadcrumbs
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese π§
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Dipping Sauce:
1/4 cup Greek yogurt
2 tablespoons mayonnaise
1 tablespoon lemon juice π
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon fresh dill, chopped πΏ
Directions
1. Prepare the Zucchini:
Preheat your oven to 425Β°F (220Β°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly grease it.
Pat the zucchini sticks dry with a paper towel.
2. Set Up the Breading Station:
Place the flour in one shallow dish.
In a second dish, whisk the beaten eggs.
In a third dish, combine panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Bread the Zucchini:
Dip each zucchini stick into the flour, shaking off excess.
Next, coat it in the egg, allowing the excess to drip off.
Finally, roll it in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing lightly to adhere.
4. Bake the Zucchini Fries:
Arrange the breaded zucchini sticks on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer, ensuring they donβt touch.
Bake for 20β25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
5. Make the Dipping Sauce:
In a small bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and dill. Adjust seasoning to taste.
6. Serve:
Serve the hot zucchini fries immediately with the creamy dipping sauce on the side.
Tips for Crispy Zucchini Fries:
For extra crunch, spray the breaded zucchini with cooking spray before baking.
Substitute panko with gluten-free breadcrumbs for a gluten-free option.
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy twist.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4
MidJourney Prompt:
crispy baked zucchini fries, golden and perfectly coated with Parmesan and herbs, served with a creamy dipping sauce. Presented on a rustic ceramic plate with warm natural lighting in a cozy kitchen setting. Taken with an iPhone 15 Pro. Amateur photo from Reddit. Close-up.