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Crispy Air Fryer Zucchini Parmesan Fries with Easy Garlic Ranch Dip

air fryer zucchini parmesan fries - featured image

These crispy air fryer zucchini parmesan fries are a healthier, crave-worthy alternative to classic fries, featuring a crunchy panko-Parmesan coating and served with a creamy homemade garlic ranch dip. Quick to make and packed with flavor, they’re perfect as a snack, appetizer, or side dish for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 medium zucchini (about 1 lb), washed and dried
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, finely grated
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • Cooking spray or olive oil spray
  • 1/3 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/3 cup sour cream
  • 2 tablespoons buttermilk (or milk with a dash of lemon juice)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh dill, finely chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh chives, finely chopped
  • 1 clove garlic, minced (or 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder)
  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice, freshly squeezed
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Wash and dry the zucchini. Cut off both ends, slice each zucchini in half crosswise, then cut each half lengthwise into 1/2-inch thick planks. Stack and slice into fries about 1/2-inch wide.
  2. Set out three shallow bowls: In the first, mix flour, 1/4 teaspoon salt, and a pinch of pepper. In the second, beat the eggs. In the third, combine panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder.
  3. Dredge zucchini sticks in flour, tapping off excess. Dip into beaten eggs, then roll in the panko-Parmesan mixture, pressing lightly to adhere. Place breaded fries on a plate or tray.
  4. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F for about 3 minutes.
  5. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray. Arrange zucchini fries in a single layer, leaving space between each. Mist the tops with more spray.
  6. Air fry at 400°F for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway and spraying again, until golden brown and crispy on the edges.
  7. While fries cook, make the garlic ranch dip: In a small bowl, mix mayonnaise, sour cream, buttermilk, dill, chives, minced garlic, and lemon juice. Add salt and pepper to taste. Chill until serving.
  8. Let fries cool for a minute to set the coating, then serve hot with garlic ranch dip. For batch cooking, keep finished fries on a wire rack in a warm oven (200°F) to stay crispy.

Notes

For best results, use medium zucchini and pat them dry before breading. Preheat the air fryer for maximum crispiness. Don’t overcrowd the basket—work in batches if needed. The garlic ranch dip can be made ahead and keeps for up to 5 days in the fridge. Fries can be made gluten-free or dairy-free with simple swaps. Reheat leftovers in the air fryer for best texture.

Nutrition

Keywords: zucchini fries, air fryer, parmesan, healthy snack, garlic ranch dip, vegetarian, appetizer, panko, crispy, easy recipe