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Crispy Air Fryer Zucchini Fries with Creamy Ranch Dip

These air fryer zucchini fries are coated in a flavorful parmesan panko crust and served with an irresistible creamy ranch dip. The air fryer method uses significantly less oil than traditional frying, making this a healthier alternative that doesn't compromise on flavor.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 32 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 280
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Ingredients
  • 2 medium zucchini, cut into ½-inch sticks
  • ½ cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • ½ teaspoon paprika
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • Cooking spray or 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • ½ cup Greek yogurt or sour cream
  • ¼ cup mayonnaise
  • 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon dried chives
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • 2 tablespoons buttermilk or milk
  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice

Method
 

Instructions
  1. Prepare the zucchini by washing and drying thoroughly. Cut off the ends, then slice into ½-inch thick sticks, similar to French fry shape. Pat dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
  2. Set up your breading station with three shallow bowls. Place flour in the first bowl, beaten eggs in the second, and in the third bowl combine panko breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper.
  3. Working in batches, coat zucchini sticks first in flour (shaking off excess), then dip in egg, and finally coat thoroughly with the panko-parmesan mixture. Place coated fries on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  4. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray or brush with olive oil. Arrange zucchini fries in a single layer without overcrowding.
  5. Air fry for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
  6. While the fries are cooking, prepare the ranch dip by combining all dip ingredients in a small bowl. Whisk until smooth and well combined. Refrigerate until ready to serve.
  7. Serve the hot zucchini fries immediately with the creamy ranch dip on the side.

Notes

The key to crispy zucchini fries is removing as much moisture as possible. After cutting, sprinkle zucchini sticks with salt and let them sit for 10 minutes, then pat dry thoroughly. Use one hand for dry ingredients and the other for wet ingredients to avoid clumpy fingers. Don't overcrowd the air fryer basket for even cooking.