Air Fryer Zucchini Fries with Basil Garlic Mayo Recipe
These Air Fryer Zucchini Fries are a crispy, flavorful snack or side dish, perfect for a healthier alternative to traditional fries. Coated with a seasoned parmesan panko crust and air fried to golden perfection, they’re served with a creamy basil garlic mayo dip that adds a fresh, tangy twist.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Zucchini Fries
- 2 medium zucchini, cut into sticks
- Salt for sprinkling on the zucchini
- 1/4 cup all purpose flour
- 2 egg whites
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 2 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/4 tsp salt
Basil Garlic Mayo
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp basil, chopped
- 1/2 small lemon, juiced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the zucchini: Lay zucchini fries onto a paper towel and sprinkle generously with salt. Let them sit for 15 minutes to draw out excess moisture, then pat dry thoroughly with another paper towel. Note that you do not need to wipe the salt off after.
- Set up the breading stations: In a small shallow bowl, place the flour. In another small bowl, whisk the egg whites. In a third bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, grated parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, and salt.
- Coat the zucchini fries: Working in batches, dip each zucchini stick first into the flour, then the egg whites, and finally the parmesan breadcrumb mixture to fully coat them. Place the breaded zucchini sticks on a plate until all are coated.
- Preheat the air fryer: Heat your air fryer to 400°F (204°C). Spray the air fryer basket or insert liberally with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Cook the zucchini fries: Place the breaded zucchini fries in a single layer in the air fryer basket, cooking in batches if necessary. Air fry for 8-10 minutes or until the fries are golden brown and crispy on the outside.
- Make the basil garlic mayo dip: While the zucchini fries cook, combine the mayonnaise, minced garlic, chopped basil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Whisk together until smooth and well combined. Set aside until serving.
- Serve: Once the fries are cooked, serve immediately with the basil garlic mayo for dipping to enjoy their best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Be sure to salt and pat dry the zucchini to prevent sogginess and ensure crispiness.
- Cooking in batches helps keep the fries from overcrowding and promotes even air circulation.
- You can substitute the mayonnaise in the dip with Greek yogurt for a lighter option.
- Leftover fries are best reheated in the air fryer to maintain crispness rather than microwaving.
- If you prefer a spicier dip, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the basil garlic mayo.
