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Zucchini, a member of the summer squash family, has long been celebrated for its versatility in the kitchen. This mild-flavored vegetable can be sautéed, grilled, roasted, or even spiralized into noodles, making it a staple in countless dishes across various cuisines. Among its many culinary adaptations, zucchini fries stand out as a particularly appealing option, offering a healthier alternative to traditional potato fries. With a crisp exterior and tender interior, these zesty zucchini fries are not only a delicious snack but also a delightful side dish that can complement any meal.

Zucchini Fries with Garlic Aioli

Discover the delightful recipe for Zesty Zucchini Fries with Creamy Garlic Aioli, a healthier twist on traditional fries. These crispy zucchini sticks are coated with a flavorful panko breadcrumb mix, baked to perfection, and paired with a rich garlic aioli for dipping. Not only are they a delicious snack, but they also incorporate a nutritious vegetable into your diet. Perfect for family gatherings, parties, or a weeknight treat, they're sure to impress everyone!
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Ingredients
  

For Zucchini Fries:

2 medium zucchinis

1 cup all-purpose flour

2 large eggs

1 cup panko breadcrumbs

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

Salt and freshly cracked pepper to taste

Cooking oil spray (or olive oil for drizzling)

For Garlic Aioli:

1/2 cup mayonnaise

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

Salt and freshly cracked pepper to taste

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to preheat at 425°F (220°C). Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper to ensure easy cleanup and prevent sticking.

    Prepare the Zucchini: Rinse and dry the zucchinis thoroughly. Slice each zucchini in half lengthwise, then cut each half into fry shapes about 1/2 inch thick. Pat the zucchini fries dry with a paper towel to eliminate any excess moisture for better crisping.

      Set Up the Breading Station: Arrange three bowls in a row: in the first bowl, place the flour seasoned with salt and pepper. In the second bowl, whisk the eggs until they are frothy. In the third bowl, mix together the panko breadcrumbs with the Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until well combined.

        Bread the Zucchini: Take each zucchini fry and first coat it in the flour, ensuring it's fully covered. Shake off any excess flour. Next, dip the fry into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess to drip off. Finally, roll the zucchini in the panko mixture, pressing gently to make sure each fry is completely coated. Arrange the breaded fries in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.

          Bake the Fries: Lightly spray the breaded zucchini fries with cooking oil or drizzle with a small amount of olive oil. Bake them in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, flipping the fries halfway through the cooking time, until they are golden brown and crispy.

            Prepare the Aioli: While the zucchini fries are baking, whip up the garlic aioli. In a small mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, minced garlic, fresh lemon juice, and Dijon mustard. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir well until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Adjust seasoning as required according to your preference.

              Serve: Once the zucchini fries are finished baking, remove them from the oven and allow them to cool slightly for about a minute. Serve the warm, crispy fries alongside the creamy garlic aioli for dipping.

                Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 30 minutes | Serves 4