If you’re looking to enjoy a crispy, savory snack without the guilt, these air fryer zucchini fries with garlic aioli are your answer. They’re a fantastic alternative to traditional French fries, offering a perfect balance of crunchy texture and delightful flavors.

• Cuisine: American
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Servings: 4

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Healthier choice: Lower in calories and fat compared to traditional fries.
• Quick to prepare: Ready in under half an hour, ideal for busy weeknights.
• No deep frying mess: The air fryer ensures minimal cleanup with maximum crunch.

Ingredients

• ¾ cup mayonnaise: Forms the base of the aioli, adding creaminess and richness.
• 3 cloves garlic (minced): Provides a robust garlic flavor, essential for the aioli.
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice: Balances the aioli with a fresh citrus zing.
• ¾ teaspoon salt (more or less to taste): Enhances flavors in both the aioli and zucchini fries.
• 1 large zucchini: The star ingredient, cut into matchsticks for frying.
• Salt (to sweat zucchini, enough to cover fries generously): Draws out moisture from the zucchini, preventing sogginess.
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs: These create the coveted crispy coating.
• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning: Infuses the fries with a blend of aromatic herbs.
• ½ cup freshly grated parmesan cheese: Adds an umami-rich, cheesy layer to the fries.
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder: Deepens the garlic profile in the breadcrumb mixture.
• 1 pinch salt (more or less to taste): Further seasons the breadcrumb mixture.
• 1 pinch freshly ground black pepper (more or less to taste): Adds subtle heat and complexity.
• 2 large eggs: Acts as a binder for the breadcrumb coating.

How to Make It

Step 1: Prepare the Aioli

Combine the mayonnaise, minced garlic, lemon juice, and ¾ teaspoon salt in a small bowl. Stir until smooth. Cover and refrigerate to meld the flavors while you make the zucchini fries.

Step 2: Sweat the Zucchini

Slice the zucchini into fry-sized sticks. Lay them on a paper towel or kitchen cloth and sprinkle generously with salt. Let them sit for about 10 minutes to sweat out excess moisture. Pat dry to ensure they crisp up nicely in the air fryer.

Step 3: Coat the Zucchini Fries

In one bowl, beat the eggs. In another bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs, Italian seasoning, parmesan cheese, garlic powder, a pinch of salt, and pepper. Dip zucchini sticks in egg, then press into the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring an even coating.

Step 4: Air Fry to Perfection

Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the zucchini fries in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they don’t overlap. Cook for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crisp.

Recipe FAQs

Can I make these zucchini fries in the oven?

Yes, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and bake the coated zucchini on a parchment-lined sheet for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway, until they’re crispy and golden brown.

How do I prevent the zucchini from getting soggy?

Salting the zucchini and patting them dry is crucial to remove excess moisture. Also, avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket to ensure even air circulation.

What else can I serve with the garlic aioli?

This aioli pairs well with a variety of dishes such as roasted vegetables, sandwiches, or as a dipping sauce for grilled meats.