Air-Fryer Zucchini Sticks: Quick, Easy, And Healthy!

Air fryer zucchini sticks are a delicious, healthy snack that can be made in minutes. They are crispy and cheesy on the outside, tender on the inside, and are a great way to use up leftover zucchini from your garden. This recipe is simple and only requires a handful of ingredients. The zucchini sticks can be made with or without breading, depending on your preference. They are best served warm with a dipping sauce such as marinara, ranch, or garlic aioli.

Choosing the right zucchini

• Look for zucchini with long stems: Zucchini with a large portion of their stem attached tend to stay fresher for longer. This is especially important if you don't plan on using them right away. The longer the stem, the better.
• Size matters: Opt for small to medium-sized zucchini. Larger zucchini tend to be more watery and may lack flavor.
• Check the color and texture: Look for zucchini with bright, green skin that is free from any bruises or pits. The zucchini should feel firm to the touch.
• Avoid excess moisture: Don't wash or cut your zucchini until you're ready to use it. Store whole zucchini in the crisper drawer of your refrigerator to avoid any extra moisture, which can cause them to spoil quicker. If you need to store them in a bag, leave it open to allow the zucchini to breathe and prevent moisture buildup.
• Freshness and storage: Zucchini can last for up to two weeks in the refrigerator if stored properly. For long-term storage, freezing is an option, but it's important to follow the correct procedure to avoid sogginess.
• Farmer's markets and local produce: If possible, opt for fresh zucchini from your local farmer's market or farm stand. This ensures you're getting the freshest produce, which can make a big difference in taste and texture.

By following these tips, you'll be able to choose the right zucchini for making delicious and crispy zucchini sticks in your air fryer!

Preparing the zucchini

Step 1: Selecting and Washing the Zucchini

Start by choosing firm, heavy zucchini with vibrant skin, avoiding any with soft spots or blemishes. Look for zucchini with fresh, shrivel-free ends as this indicates they are ripe and ready for use. Once you've selected your zucchini, give them a good wash under running water to remove any dirt or residue.

Step 2: Cutting the Zucchini into Sticks

After washing, dry the zucchini with a clean kitchen or paper towel to absorb any excess moisture. This step is important as it helps the zucchini sticks cook evenly and ensures a crisp texture. Now, you're ready to cut your zucchini into sticks. Aim for a french fry shape by first cutting the zucchini in half lengthwise, then cutting each half into quarters. You can further cut the zucchini down the center to create long, thin strips. Try to keep the zucchini sticks a similar size so they cook evenly.

Step 3: Battering and Coating the Zucchini (Optional)

If you want to add a crispy coating to your zucchini sticks, prepare a simple batter by whisking together flour and dry seasonings on a large plate. In a separate bowl, scramble some eggs, and in another bowl, combine breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese. You can also add other seasonings like garlic powder, Italian seasoning, or paprika to the breadcrumb mixture for extra flavour. Now, simply dip each zucchini stick into the flour mixture, followed by the egg mixture, and finally, coat it with the breadcrumb and cheese mixture. Repeat this process until all your zucchini sticks are nicely coated.

Step 4: Final Preparations

Before placing the zucchini sticks into the air fryer, give the air fryer basket a light coating of cooking oil or spray. This helps prevent sticking and promotes even cooking. If desired, you can also spritz the zucchini sticks themselves with a light coating of oil to enhance the golden colour and crispiness. Place the zucchini sticks in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they don't overlap or touch. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook the zucchini sticks in batches.

Now your zucchini sticks are prepared and ready for air frying! Simply follow the cooking instructions for your chosen recipe, and enjoy your delicious, crispy treat.

Battering the zucchini

Firstly, prepare your wet and dry mixtures. For the wet mixture, whisk eggs in a shallow bowl. You can also add a bit of water to thin out the mixture. For the dry mixture, combine breadcrumbs with parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and salt in a separate shallow bowl. Mix the dry ingredients well. You can also add paprika and pepper to this mixture for an extra kick of flavour.

Next, it's time to coat the zucchini sticks. Start by dipping the zucchini sticks into the wet mixture, ensuring they are well-coated. Then, transfer the sticks to the dry mixture and coat them evenly. Make sure to shake off any excess before placing them on a clean plate.

Repeat this process until all your zucchini sticks are coated. It's important to work in batches to ensure an even coating on each stick.

Once all your zucchini sticks are coated, it's almost time to pop them into the air fryer! But first, spray the air fryer basket with oil to prevent sticking and ensure that golden crust.

Now, place your battered zucchini sticks into the air fryer basket in a single layer. Make sure they are not overlapping or touching, as this can impact their crispiness. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook them in batches.

Finally, spritz the zucchini sticks with a light coating of oil. This will help them achieve that mouth-watering golden colour and extra crispiness.

Your zucchini sticks are now ready to be air-fried to perfection!

Cooking the zucchini

Now that you have your zucchini sticks, it's time to cook them in the air fryer. Here's a step-by-step guide:

• Preheat your air fryer: Most recipes recommend preheating your air fryer to 400°F for about 3 minutes. This step ensures that your zucchini fries cook evenly and helps to achieve that desired crispy texture.
• Prepare the zucchini coating: In one shallow bowl, whisk or beat eggs. You can also add water to thin out the mixture. In a separate shallow bowl, combine dry ingredients like breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and salt. Mix well.
• Coat the zucchini sticks: Dip each zucchini stick first into the egg mixture, letting any excess drip off, and then into the dry mixture. Make sure the zucchini is well coated. You can use a fork or tongs for this step.
• Prepare the air fryer basket: Lightly spray or brush the air fryer basket with oil. This will prevent sticking and help the zucchini crisp up.
• Place the zucchini in the air fryer: Arrange the coated zucchini sticks in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Make sure they are not overlapping or touching. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook them in batches.
• Air fry the zucchini: Cook the zucchini sticks at 350-400°F for 7-12 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy. You may need to adjust the cooking time depending on the thickness of your zucchini sticks and the model of your air fryer.
• Flip the zucchini halfway through: For even cooking, it's a good idea to flip the zucchini sticks halfway through the cooking process.
• Serve immediately: Zucchini fries are best served fresh out of the air fryer. Enjoy them as a snack or a side dish with your favourite dipping sauce!

Tips for crispy zucchini sticks:

• Pat the zucchini dry: Before coating the zucchini, use a paper towel to remove any excess moisture. This helps the coating adhere better and ensures a crisp texture.
• Use avocado oil spray: Spraying the air fryer basket and the coated zucchini with avocado oil can help achieve a golden brown crust. You can also use olive oil or coconut oil spray.
• Don't overcrowd the air fryer: Cook the zucchini sticks in batches if needed to prevent overcrowding. This ensures proper airflow and even cooking.
• Experiment with flavours: Try adding a squeeze of lemon juice or Italian seasoning to the breadcrumb mixture for extra flavour. You can also use pre-seasoned breadcrumbs.

Serving the zucchini

Once your zucchini sticks are cooked, it's time to serve them! Here are some tips and suggestions for serving your delicious creation:

Dipping Sauces

Zucchini sticks pair well with a variety of dipping sauces. Here are some ideas to elevate your zucchini sticks:

• Marinara sauce
• Ranch dressing
• Garlic aioli
• Whipped feta
• Alfredo sauce
• Honey mustard
• Spicy sriracha mayo
• Tzatziki sauce
• Creamy tomatillo dressing
• Light ranch dressing

Side Dishes

Zucchini sticks can be served as a side dish to complement a variety of meals. Here are some suggestions:

• Cheeseburger sliders
• Ribeye steak
• Chicken tenders
• Jalapeno poppers
• Air fryer hot wings

Storage and Reheating

If you have any leftover zucchini sticks, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place them back in the air fryer at 350°F for a few minutes until they are warmed through and crispy again.

Variations and Substitutions

Feel free to experiment with different seasonings and ingredients to create your own unique zucchini sticks. Here are some ideas:

• Italian seasoning
• Cajun seasoning
• Everything bagel seasoning
• Nutritional yeast
• Gluten-free breadcrumbs
• Pre-seasoned breadcrumbs
• Oregano
• Thyme
• Dried parsley
• Vegan parmesan cheese

You can also turn your zucchini sticks into zucchini chips by slicing the zucchini into thin rounds instead of strips.

Frequently asked questions