Step by step

Method

5 steps

1. 1

   Trim 3 medium zucchini and cut into fry-shaped sticks about ½ inch thick. Pat very dry between towels — wet zucchini makes soggy coating.

2. 2

   Mix ½ cup dry breadcrumbs or panko with ¼ cup grated Parmesan, ½ teaspoon garlic powder, ½ teaspoon seasoning salt (or kosher salt), and ¼ teaspoon black pepper in a shallow bowl. Put 1–2 lightly beaten eggs in another bowl.

3. 3

   Dip sticks in egg, then press into the crumb mix so it sticks. Set coated fries on a plate while you finish the batch.

4. 4

   Preheat the air fryer to 400°F. Arrange fries in a single layer and spray or mist lightly with oil. Air fry 10–14 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crisp. Batch as needed — crowded fries steam.

5. 5

   Serve immediately with marinara or ranch. You want crisp Parmesan zucchini fries with a tender middle — not pale soft coating or watery limp sticks.