Crispy Baked Zucchini Sticks Recipe: A Healthy and Delicious Snack

Zucchini sticks are a fantastic snack or appetizer that offer a healthier alternative to traditional fries. They are crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and packed with flavor. This recipe is not only easy to make but also perfect for satisfying your cravings without the guilt. Follow these simple steps to create a batch of delicious crispy baked zucchini sticks that your family and friends will love.

Ingredients:

2 medium zucchinis
100 g panko (Japanese breadcrumbs)

50 g grated Parmesan
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp paprika

Salt and pepper to taste
2 eggs
50 g flour

Olive oil (for drizzling)

Instructions:

Preparing the Zucchini

Preheat the Oven:

Preheat your oven to 220°C (428°F).

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.

Prepare the Zucchinis:

Wash the zucchinis thoroughly under running water.
Cut off both ends of each zucchini.
Slice the zucchinis into thin, even sticks. Aim for consistency in size to ensure even cooking.

Prepare the Breading Mixture

Mix the Ingredients:

In a medium bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well to ensure the seasonings are evenly distributed.

Set Up the Coating Station:

In another bowl, beat the eggs until the yolks and whites are well combined.
Place the flour in a third bowl.

Coating the Zucchini Sticks

Coat the Zucchini Sticks:

Step 1: Dredge each zucchini stick in flour, ensuring it is lightly coated. Shake off any excess flour.
Step 2: Dip the floured zucchini stick into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess egg to drip off.
Step 3: Roll the zucchini stick in the panko mixture, pressing gently to help the breadcrumbs adhere. Make sure the stick is fully coated for maximum crispiness.

Baking

Arrange and Drizzle:

Place the coated zucchini sticks in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Ensure they are not touching each other to allow for even baking.
Lightly drizzle the sticks with olive oil. This helps achieve a golden, crispy exterior.

Bake:

Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the zucchini sticks are golden brown and crispy.
Carefully flip the sticks halfway through baking to ensure even browning on all sides.

Serving

Serve and Enjoy:

Remove the zucchini sticks from the oven and let them cool slightly.
Serve them warm, either on their own or with your favorite dip. Tzatziki or garlic yogurt dip makes a great accompaniment.

Tips for Perfect Zucchini Sticks

Consistent Slicing: Cutting the zucchini into uniform sticks ensures they cook evenly.
Dry the Zucchini: Pat the zucchini sticks dry with a paper towel before coating to help the breading adhere better.
Spice It Up: Feel free to add other seasonings to the breading mixture, such as cayenne pepper for a spicy kick or Italian seasoning for a herbaceous flavor.
Use a Wire Rack: Placing the zucchini sticks on a wire rack set on top of the baking sheet can help achieve even crispiness on all sides.

FAQs

Q: Can I use regular breadcrumbs instead of panko?

A: Yes, you can use regular breadcrumbs, but panko breadcrumbs provide a lighter and crispier texture.

Q: Can I make these zucchini sticks in an air fryer?

A: Absolutely! Preheat your air fryer to 200°C (392°F) and cook the zucchini sticks for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Q: How do I store leftovers?

A: Store any leftover zucchini sticks in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat them in the oven or air fryer to restore their crispiness.

Q: Can I freeze the zucchini sticks?

A: Yes, you can freeze them before baking. Place the coated zucchini sticks on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer to a freezer bag and store for up to 2 months. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Q: What dips go well with zucchini sticks?

A: Tzatziki, garlic yogurt dip, marinara sauce, ranch dressing, and spicy mayo are all excellent choices.

Enjoy these crispy baked zucchini sticks as a delicious and healthy snack or appetizer. With their irresistible crunch and savory flavor, they are sure to become a favorite in your household.