Ingredients:

  • 3 medium zucchini, cut into fries (approx. 1.5 lbs / 680g)
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1/4 cup mayonnaise
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp sriracha

Instructions:

  1. Slice the zucchini into quarters lengthwise, then slice each quarter into sticks about 1/2 inch thick. Toss the sticks with 1 tsp of salt and let them sit for 5-10 minutes. Pat them thoroughly dry with paper towels to remove the released water.
  2. Set up a dredging station with three shallow bowls: Bowl 1 containing flour, Bowl 2 containing beaten eggs, and Bowl 3 containing Panko, Parmesan, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
  3. Dip each zucchini fry into the flour, then the beaten egg, and finally press firmly into the Panko mixture until fully coated.
  4. Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange the fries in a single layer, ensuring they do not touch.
  5. Bake for 10 minutes, flip each fry carefully, and bake for another 10 minutes until they reach a deep golden-brown hue.
  6. For the optional dipping sauce, whisk together mayonnaise, lemon juice, minced garlic, and sriracha in a small bowl.