Air Fryer Zucchini Sticks Recipe

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Air fryer zucchini sticks are a tasty and healthy snack that you can make in just a few minutes. You’ll love how crispy and crunchy they get without needing a lot of oil, making them perfect for guilt-free munching.

Coated in seasoned breadcrumbs and air fried, these zucchini sticks have a crunchy exterior and a soft interior. It’s easy to pair them with your favorite dips, like ranch or ketchup, for an even more delightful experience.

Whether you’re looking for a quick snack or a fun side dish, air fryer zucchini sticks are easy to prepare and enjoyable for everyone.

Exact Ingredients (+ Possible Substitutes)

Here’s a simple list of ingredients to make air fryer zucchini sticks, along with some possible substitutes.

Zucchini

• 2 medium zucchini
  Substitute: Yellow squash or eggplant.

Flour

• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  Substitute: Almond flour for a gluten-free option.

Eggs

• 2 large eggs, beaten
  Substitute: Dairy-free milk with a bit of cornstarch.

Breadcrumbs

• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  Substitute: Crushed cornflakes or gluten-free breadcrumbs.

Seasonings:

• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
  Substitute: Add paprika or cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.

Olive oil spray

• To lightly coat the zucchini sticks
  Substitute: Any light cooking spray you prefer.

Instructions

1. Prepare the Zucchini:

   • Cut the zucchini into sticks about 2½ inches long and ½ inch wide.

2. Set Up Breading Stations:

   • In a shallow bowl, mix flour, salt, and pepper.
   • In another bowl, beat an egg.
   • In a third bowl, combine breadcrumbs, grated parmesan cheese, and garlic powder.

3. Coat the Zucchini:

   • Dip each zucchini stick into the flour mixture.
   • Then dip it into the egg, ensuring it’s fully coated.
   • Finally, roll the zucchini in the breadcrumb mixture.

4. Preheat and Spray:

   • Preheat your air fryer to 380°F.
   • Spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray.

5. Arrange and Cook:

   • Place the breaded zucchini sticks in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
   • Lightly spray the tops of the zucchini sticks with cooking spray.

6. Air Fry:

   • Cook at 380°F for 10-12 minutes.
   • Check to ensure they are crispy and golden.

7. Serve:

   • Let the zucchini sticks cool for a minute before serving.

Enjoy your crispy air fryer zucchini sticks with your favorite dipping sauce!

Tips, Tricks & Storing

Tips and Tricks

• Preheat the Air Fryer: Always preheat your air fryer for about 5-10 minutes. This helps the zucchini sticks cook evenly.
• Uniform Size: Cut the zucchini sticks in similar sizes, about 2½” long by ½” wide, for even cooking.
• Light Coating: Coat lightly with flour, then dip in beaten egg, and finally in seasoned breadcrumbs. This ensures a crispy exterior without being too heavy.
• Spray Oil: Use a light spray of olive oil or any cooking spray over the coated zucchini to help them crisp up better.
• Single Layer: Arrange the zucchini sticks in a single layer in the air fryer basket. This prevents overcrowding and ensures they cook evenly and turn golden.

Storing

• Refrigeration: If you have leftovers, let the zucchini sticks cool completely. Store them in an airtight container and place them in the refrigerator. They should stay fresh for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: To reheat, place the zucchini sticks back in the air fryer at 350°F for about 3-5 minutes. This will help them regain their crispiness.
• Freezing: For longer storage, you can freeze the zucchini sticks. Spread them out on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored for up to 2 months. To reheat, air fry directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Recipe Variations & Serving Suggestions

There are many ways to make air fryer zucchini sticks more interesting.

Spice It Up: Try adding different spices to the breading mix. Paprika, garlic powder, or cayenne pepper can add some kick. You can also toss the zucchini sticks in a bit of hot sauce before breading.

Cheese Options: Instead of just Parmesan, consider using Asiago or Pecorino Romano for a different flavor. Cheese lovers might enjoy a sprinkle of mozzarella once the sticks are done cooking.

Breading Choices: Panko breadcrumbs give an extra crunch. For a healthier option, use whole wheat breadcrumbs. Gluten-free bread crumbs also work well if you need a gluten-free recipe.

Here are some dipping sauces and serving ideas:

• Classic Marinara: A marinara sauce makes a great dip.
• Ranch or Blue Cheese: These creamy dips pair perfectly with the crunchy zucchini.
• Yogurt-Dill Dip: Mix Greek yogurt with some lemon juice, fresh dill, and a dash of salt.

Serve As: Air fryer zucchini sticks are a great snack on their own or a side dish with grilled meats. They also make a tasty appetizer for parties.

Feel free to experiment and find your favorite combination of spices, cheeses, and dipping sauces!