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Golden crispy baked zucchini fries coated in panko breadcrumbs on a white plate with fresh herbs
Dinner

Crispy Zucchini

What a wonderful appetizer and on a healthier side, considering it's baked.

5.0 (1)
Prep
15 min
Cook
1hr 22min
Total
1hr 37min
Serves
4
Style
💰 Everyday

What a wonderful appetizer—and on the healthier side, considering it's baked!

Crispy Zucchini preparation step 1
Crispy Zucchini preparation step 2
Crispy Zucchini preparation step 3

Ingredients

Servings:
4
  • 2 medium to large zucchinis, cut into 1 cm × 5 cm batons
  • 1 1/2 tsp (9 g) kosher salt, divided
  • 1 cup (125 g) all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 tsp (1 g) paprika
  • 1/2 tsp (1 g) black pepper
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 cups (100 g) Panko breadcrumbs
  • Cooking spray

Instructions

  1. 1

    Place the zucchini in a plastic colander and sprinkle it with 3/4 tsp (3.75ml) kosher salt; toss it well. Place the colander over a bowl or a plate and allow it to sit at room temperature for about an hour (this should draw some of the water out, making it possible for the zucchini to crisp up).

  2. 2

    In a bowl, combine the flour, paprika, black pepper, and 3/4 tsp (3.75ml) kosher salt. In a separate bowl, whisk the 2 eggs. Place the Panko in your third bowl. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).

  3. 3

    Pat the zucchini dry. Working with a few pieces at a time, dredge them in the flour mixture; be sure to shake off the extra flour. Then dredge them in the eggs, followed by the breadcrumbs. Place them in a single layer on a greased baking sheet. Lightly coat the zucchini with cooking spray.

  4. 4

    Bake in the preheated oven for 12 minutes, remove from the oven, flip 180 degrees, and very lightly coat the other side with cooking spray. Bake for an additional 10–12 minutes until golden and cooked through.

FAQ

Why do you salt the zucchini before cooking crispy zucchini?+
Salting draws out excess moisture from the zucchini, which is key to getting them crispy instead of soggy in the oven. Let them sit for about an hour so the water releases and drains away.
Can you make crispy zucchini ahead of time?+
Yes! Bread the zucchini batons up to 4 hours ahead and refrigerate them on a baking sheet, then spray and bake when ready. They're best enjoyed fresh from the oven, but leftovers keep refrigerated for 2 days and can be reheated at 350°F for a few minutes.
What can I use instead of panko breadcrumbs for crispy zucchini?+
Regular breadcrumbs work but won't be quite as crispy—use the same amount. For extra crunch, try crushed cornflakes or a mix of panko with grated Parmesan cheese.
How do you know when crispy zucchini is done cooking?+
The batons should be golden brown and the coating should feel crispy when you touch it, which typically takes 20-25 minutes at 400°F. If they're still pale, give them another 5 minutes.

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Crispy Zucchini Fries | Healthy Baked Recipe | Food 400°