Lemony Baked Zucchini Curly Fries with Parmesan & Herbs

Give zucchini a much-needed zap with this recipe that converts the veggie from bland green stick to crispy, salty, spiralized snack. Lemony Baked Zucchini Curly Fries with Parmesan & Herbs are a delightful way to enjoy this nutritious vegetable. Perfect for gatherings, movie nights, or as a healthy appetizer, these baked zoodle curly fries combine airy panko breadcrumbs, nutty Parmesan cheese, fresh herbs, and bright lemon zest to create an irresistible dish that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crispy Texture: The combination of panko and Parmesan gives these curly fries a satisfying crunch.
• Fresh Flavor: Bright lemon zest and fresh herbs elevate the zucchini’s natural taste.
• Easy Preparation: With simple steps and common kitchen tools, you’ll have this delicious snack ready in no time.
• Versatile Snack: Perfect as an appetizer or side dish, they pair well with marinara or your favorite dipping sauce.
• Healthy Alternative: Enjoy your fries guilt-free! These baked zoodles are a low-carb option packed with nutrients.

Tools and Preparation

To achieve the best results for your Lemony Baked Zucchini Curly Fries with Parmesan & Herbs, gather the necessary tools before you begin. Having everything ready will streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper
• Shallow dishes
• Spiralizer (or pre-spiralized zucchini)
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheets: Essential for evenly cooking your fries while allowing air circulation for crispiness.
• Spiralizer: Creates fun curly shapes from zucchini, making them more appealing as a snack.
• Shallow dishes: Perfect for setting up your dredging station efficiently, ensuring even coating.

Ingredients

Ingredients:
– 4 tablespoons olive oil, divided
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 1/2 teaspoon coarse salt, divided
– 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, divided
– 4 large eggs, lightly beaten
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese (plus 1 tablespoon for garnish)
– 1 1/2 teaspoons of lemon zest, divided
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (plus 1 teaspoon for garnish)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 12 ounces spiralized zucchini noodles
– 1/2 cup marinara, warmed, for dipping
– Lemon wedges, for garnish

How to Make Lemony Baked Zucchini Curly Fries with Parmesan & Herbs

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat the oven to 425°F and line two baking sheets with parchment paper. Drizzle each sheet with 1 tablespoon of olive oil (totaling 2 tablespoons).

Step 2: Set Up Dredging Stations

Prepare three shallow dishes in an assembly line:
1. In the first bowl, mix the flour with 1/2 teaspoon of salt and 1/2 teaspoon of pepper.
2. In the middle bowl, add the beaten eggs.
3. In the last bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, 1/2 cup grated parmesan, 1 teaspoon lemon zest, parsley, basil, garlic powder, the remaining salt (1/2 teaspoon) and pepper (remaining 1/2 teaspoon).

Step 3: Prepare Zucchini Noodles

If your zucchini noodles are long, chop them into approximately 6-inch pieces to resemble curly fries.

Step 4: Dredge the Zoodles

Working in batches:
1. Dredge zoodles first in flour.
2. Dip them in egg.
3. Coat with panko-parmesan mixture.
Shake off any excess crumbs and arrange breaded zoodles in a single layer on prepared baking sheets.

Step 5: Bake Until Crispy

Drizzle remaining olive oil over zoodles. Bake until golden-brown and crispy—about 12-15 minutes. While hot, sprinkle fries with remaining salt (1/2 teaspoon), garnish with parmesan (1 tablespoon), lemon zest (1/2 teaspoon) and parsley (1 teaspoon).

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Garnish with lemon wedges and serve warm alongside marinara for dipping. Enjoy your deliciously crispy Lemony Baked Zucchini Curly Fries with Parmesan & Herbs!

How to Serve Lemony Baked Zucchini Curly Fries with Parmesan & Herbs

These crispy, zesty zucchini curly fries make a delightful appetizer or snack. There are many ways to elevate your serving experience for this dish.

Pair with Dipping Sauces

• Marinara Sauce: The classic choice that complements the savory flavors perfectly.
• Ranch Dressing: A creamy option that adds a cool contrast to the crispy fries.
• Garlic Aioli: This rich, garlicky dip enhances the overall taste profile of the fries.

Add Fresh Garnishes

• Chopped Parsley: Sprinkling fresh parsley on top gives a pop of color and freshness.
• Lemon Wedges: A squeeze of lemon juice adds brightness and balances the flavors.

Serve as a Side Dish

• Alongside Burgers: These zoodle fries can replace traditional fries for a healthier twist.
• With Salads: Pairing them with a light salad creates a well-rounded meal.

How to Perfect Lemony Baked Zucchini Curly Fries with Parmesan & Herbs

To ensure your zucchini curly fries turn out crispy and flavorful each time, follow these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Zucchini: Fresh zucchinis have more moisture and taste better than older ones.
• Spiralize Evenly: Ensure your zoodles are evenly spiralized for consistent cooking.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Arrange the fries in a single layer on the baking sheet for optimal crispiness.
• Adjust Baking Time: Keep an eye on them as ovens vary; bake until golden brown and crispy.
• Experiment with Spices: Feel free to add other spices like paprika or cayenne for extra flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Lemony Baked Zucchini Curly Fries with Parmesan & Herbs

These zucchini curly fries pair well with various side dishes, making your meal complete. Consider these options when serving.

1. Caesar Salad: A classic salad that adds a crunchy texture and creamy dressing to complement the fries.
2. Grilled Chicken Skewers: Juicy skewers enhance your meal’s protein content while being easy to prepare.
3. Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil provide a refreshing contrast alongside the baked zoodles.
4. Stuffed Peppers: Colorful peppers filled with quinoa or rice offer heartiness that balances the lightness of zucchini fries.
5. Sweet Potato Wedges: These sweet and savory wedges create a delightful contrast in flavor and texture.
6. Quinoa Pilaf: A nutritious grain side that pairs well with the herbs in the zucchini fries.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can make your Lemony Baked Zucchini Curly Fries with Parmesan & Herbs a hit.

• Skipping the Parchment Paper: Not using parchment paper can lead to sticking. Always line your baking sheets to ensure the fries come off easily.
• Crowding the Baking Sheet: Overcrowding leads to steaming instead of crisping. Arrange the zoodles in a single layer for the best results.
• Inconsistent Sizes: Cutting zucchini into different sizes affects cooking time. Aim for uniform pieces to ensure even baking.
• Not Draining Excess Moisture: Leaving too much moisture on the zoodles can make them soggy. Pat them dry before breading for extra crispiness.
• Ignoring Seasoning: Skipping seasoning on the fries can result in bland flavors. Don’t forget to sprinkle salt and herbs generously after baking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Ensure the fries are completely cooled before sealing.

Freezing Lemony Baked Zucchini Curly Fries with Parmesan & Herbs

• Freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer-safe bag.
• They can last up to 2 months in the freezer.

Reheating Lemony Baked Zucchini Curly Fries with Parmesan & Herbs

• Oven: Preheat to 375°F and bake for about 10 minutes until heated through and crispy again.
• Microwave: Heat on medium for 1-2 minutes, but this may result in softer fries.
• Stovetop: Sauté in a little olive oil over medium heat for about 5 minutes until warmed and slightly crisped.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use regular zucchini instead of spiralized?

Yes, you can slice regular zucchini into thin strips if you don’t have spiralized noodles. Just make sure they’re similar in size.

What can I dip my Lemony Baked Zucchini Curly Fries with Parmesan & Herbs in?

Marinara sauce is a classic choice, but you could also try ranch, garlic aioli, or tzatziki for a twist.

How do I make these zucchini fries gluten-free?

To make them gluten-free, substitute all-purpose flour with almond flour and use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs.

Can I add more spices or herbs?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize by adding spices like paprika, cayenne, or even Italian seasoning for added flavor.

How long do these curly fries take to bake?

They typically take about 12-15 minutes at 425°F until they are golden-brown and crispy.

Final Thoughts

These Lemony Baked Zucchini Curly Fries with Parmesan & Herbs are not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize them by adding your favorite spices or trying different dipping sauces. They make an excellent appetizer or snack that everyone will enjoy!