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 perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a casual family dinner or a lively game night. Coated with airy panko breadcrumbs, nutty Parmesan cheese, herbs, and bright lemon zest, these baked zoodle curly fries are as addictive as the real thing.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crispy Texture: The panko breadcrumbs create a delightful crunch that makes every bite satisfying.
• Burst of Flavor: Lemon zest and fresh herbs elevate the taste, adding brightness to your snack.
• Healthier Alternative: Enjoy the pleasure of fries without the guilt; zucchini is low in calories and high in nutrients.
• Quick Prep Time: With just 15 minutes of prep, you can whip these up easily for spontaneous gatherings.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve them as an appetizer or snack, paired with marinara or your favorite dip.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into cooking, gather your tools and prepare your workspace. Having everything set up will make the process smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper
• Shallow bowls (3)
• Whisk
• Spiralizer (for zucchini)

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheets: Ideal for even cooking and crisping without overcrowding.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
• Shallow bowls: Perfect for easy dredging of the zucchini without mess.

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. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper and drizzle each with 1 tablespoon of olive oil.

Step 2: Set Up Your Dredging Station

Prepare three shallow dishes:
* In the first bowl, mix together flour, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of pepper.
* In the second bowl, add the eggs.
* In the last bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, grated parmesan, 1 teaspoon of lemon zest, chopped parsley, chopped basil, and garlic powder. Add another pinch of salt and pepper.

Step 3: Prepare the Zucchini Noodles

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

Step 4: Bread the Zucchini Noodles

Working in batches:
1. Dredge each zoodle in the flour mixture.
2. Dip it in the egg wash.
3. Coat it in the panko-parmesan mixture. Shake off any excess crumbs.
4. Arrange them in a single layer on prepared baking sheets without crowding.

Step 5: Bake Until Crispy

Drizzle the breaded zoodles with remaining olive oil. Bake until they turn golden-brown and crispy—about 12 to 15 minutes. While they’re still hot, sprinkle them with remaining salt, parmesan cheese, lemon zest, and parsley.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Garnish with lemon wedges. Serve warm alongside warmed marinara for dipping.

Enjoy these Lemony Baked Zucchini Curly Fries with Parmesan & Herbs as a delicious snack or appetizer!

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

Lemony Baked Zucchini Curly Fries with Parmesan & Herbs are a delightful snack that pairs well with various dips and sides. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your snacking experience.

Pair with Marinara

• Serve warm marinara sauce on the side for dipping. Its rich flavor complements the crispy fries perfectly.

Add a Garlic Aioli

• Whip up a quick garlic aioli using mayonnaise, minced garlic, and lemon juice. This creamy dip adds a luxurious touch.

Serve with Fresh Salad

• Accompany these curly fries with a light salad. A simple mixed greens salad dressed in vinaigrette balances the richness of the fries.

Offer Sliced Veggies

• Present a platter of sliced cucumbers, carrots, and bell peppers. This adds freshness and crunch to your appetizer spread.

Include Cheese Platter

• Create a cheese board featuring various cheeses like mozzarella and feta. The variety will impress your guests while enhancing flavors.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Sprinkle additional fresh herbs like basil or parsley over the fries before serving. This adds color and an extra burst of flavor.

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

To achieve perfectly crispy Lemony Baked Zucchini Curly Fries with Parmesan & Herbs, keep these tips in mind:

• Use fresh zucchini: Fresh zucchini has better moisture content and flavor, ensuring crispier results.
• Spiralize evenly: Ensure the zucchini noodles are evenly spiralized. This helps them cook uniformly for the perfect texture.
• Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet: Give enough space between each fry when baking. Overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of crisping.
• Adjust baking time: Keep an eye on them as ovens vary. Bake until they are golden brown for optimal crispiness.
• Season generously: Don’t skip on seasoning after baking. A sprinkle of salt and herbs enhances the flavor right before serving.
• Serve immediately: For the best experience, serve the fries hot right out of the oven to maintain their crunchiness.

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

These Lemony Baked Zucchini Curly Fries can be enjoyed alongside various side dishes that complement their flavors beautifully.

1. Garlic Bread – A classic choice, garlic bread adds a flavorful crunch that pairs well with zoodles.
2. Caprese Salad – Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze create a refreshing side.
3. Coleslaw – Creamy coleslaw offers a tangy contrast that balances out the savory zucchini fries.
4. Stuffed Peppers – Colorful stuffed peppers filled with rice or quinoa provide heartiness to your meal.
5. Roasted Vegetables – A mix of roasted seasonal vegetables brings additional textures and flavors to your plate.
6. Quinoa Salad – A light quinoa salad loaded with veggies is nutritious and complements the fries’ flavor profile.
7. Sweet Potato Wedges – Crispy sweet potato wedges add sweetness and fiber alongside your zoodles.
8. Fruit Salad – A colorful fruit salad provides a refreshing finish after indulging in savory bites.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Lemony Baked Zucchini Curly Fries with Parmesan & Herbs, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly.

• Skipping the seasoning: Not seasoning each layer can lead to bland fries. Make sure to season the flour, eggs, and panko mixture for maximum flavor.
• Overcrowding the baking sheet: Crowding the zoodles can cause them to steam instead of crisp up. Bake in a single layer with space between each fry for optimal crunchiness.
• Using soggy zucchini: Excess moisture will prevent crispy fries. Pat the spiralized zucchini dry with paper towels before breading.
• Ignoring cooking times: Baking too long or too short can affect texture. Keep an eye on the fries and aim for that golden-brown color, usually around 12-15 minutes.
• Neglecting the garnish: Skipping the final sprinkle of herbs and cheese can diminish flavor. Always finish with fresh parsley and lemon zest just before serving.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow fries to cool completely before sealing to prevent sogginess.

Freezing Lemony Baked Zucchini Curly Fries with Parmesan & Herbs

• Freeze cooked curly fries in a single layer on a baking sheet for about 1 hour.
• Transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container and store for up to 2 months.

Reheating Lemony Baked Zucchini Curly Fries with Parmesan & Herbs

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 400°F. Spread fries on a baking sheet and bake for about 10 minutes until heated through and crispy.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes but be aware this may result in softer fries.
• Stovetop: In a skillet over medium heat, add a drizzle of olive oil and fry until warmed through, about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Lemony Baked Zucchini Curly Fries?

Lemony Baked Zucchini Curly Fries are spiralized zucchini coated in seasoned breadcrumbs, baked until crispy, and flavored with lemon zest and herbs.

How do I make zucchini curly fries without them getting soggy?

To prevent sogginess, make sure to pat your spiralized zucchini dry before breading. Also, avoid overcrowding your baking sheets during cooking.

Can I use other types of cheese in this recipe?

Absolutely! You can substitute Parmesan with other cheeses like Pecorino Romano or vegan cheese if you prefer dairy-free options.

How can I customize my Lemony Baked Zucchini Curly Fries?

Feel free to add spices such as paprika or cayenne pepper for extra flavor. You can also mix different herbs like oregano or thyme into the breadcrumb mixture.

Final Thoughts

Lemony Baked Zucchini Curly Fries with Parmesan & Herbs offer a delightful twist on traditional fries. They’re crispy, flavorful, and perfect as appetizers or snacks. With room for customization, you can easily adapt this recipe to suit your taste preferences. Give it a try—you won’t be disappointed!