If you’ve been searching for a guilt-free snack that’s quick, crunchy, and bursting with flavor, then you absolutely have to try the Easy Zucchini Air Fryer Fries (Low Carb, No Breading) Recipe. These fries capture all the joy of the classic treat but without the heavy carbs or extra breading, making them a perfect crispy delight that’s both healthy and satisfying. The magic happens in the air fryer, where zucchini transforms into golden, savory sticks that are impossible to resist. Whether you’re a veggie lover or just curious about healthier snack swaps, this recipe is an effortless must-have in your culinary repertoire.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of the Easy Zucchini Air Fryer Fries (Low Carb, No Breading) Recipe lies in its simplicity and the way each ingredient elevates the final dish’s texture and taste. Every single one plays its part to ensure these fries are flavorful, crispy, and perfectly seasoned.
- 2 medium zucchini (about 1 1/2 lbs): The star of the dish, providing a fresh and moist base that crisps beautifully in the air fryer.
- 1 tbsp grated parmesan cheese: Adds a sharp, nutty flavor and contributes to the crispy coating without any breading needed.
- 1/8 tsp onion powder: Brings subtle aromatic depth, enhancing the savory profile of the fries.
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder: Provides that comforting garlic warmth, balancing perfectly with the parmesan.
- 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil: Helps the seasonings stick and promotes even browning in the air fryer.
- Salt to taste: Essential for bringing out all the natural flavors of the zucchini and seasonings.
- Black pepper to taste: Adds a mild heat and complexity to round out the seasoning.
- Cooking spray (optional): Useful for preventing sticking on your air fryer trays or basket.
You’ll find the full ingredient list, instructions, and print option in the recipe card below.
How to Make Easy Zucchini Air Fryer Fries (Low Carb, No Breading) Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Zucchini
Start by washing your zucchini thoroughly and patting them dry to remove any excess moisture—this step is crucial to getting that golden crisp. Trim off the ends, then slice each zucchini into approximately four-inch long sticks, aiming to keep them as uniform as possible, so they cook evenly with that perfect tender-crisp bite.
Step 2: Mix the Flavorful Parmesan Coating
In a large mixing bowl, combine the grated parmesan cheese, extra virgin olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Stir them together to make a fragrant, flavorful mixture that will cling beautifully to the zucchini fries, ensuring every bite is bursting with savory goodness.
Step 3: Coat the Zucchini
Toss your zucchini strips into the parmesan seasoning mixture, stirring gently but thoroughly to make sure every fry is evenly coated on all sides. This coating is the secret to the Low Carb, No Breading crispiness that will make this Easy Zucchini Air Fryer Fries (Low Carb, No Breading) Recipe a new favorite.
Step 4: Preheat and Prepare the Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C), following your model’s instructions. Lightly spray the air fryer basket or trays with cooking spray if you want to be extra sure nothing sticks. Preheating helps the zucchini fries start crisping from the moment they hit the basket.
Step 5: Air Fry to Perfection
Arrange the zucchini fries in a single layer on the air fryer tray or basket—crowding them will steam instead of crisp. Set the temperature to 400°F and cook for about 10 minutes, flipping them halfway through. Keep an eye on them toward the end so they reach a beautiful golden brown without burning. If your air fryer uses trays and cooks unevenly, remove the top tray first when done and swap the bottom tray upward to finish cooking.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
Once cooked, carefully remove your zucchini fries and allow them to cool just a bit—they’ll firm up and become even more delicious. Serve immediately with your favorite dips like tangy tomato sauce or creamy ranch for a snack or side that’s sure to impress.
How to Serve Easy Zucchini Air Fryer Fries (Low Carb, No Breading) Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkling a little extra grated parmesan or fresh chopped herbs like parsley or chives right after cooking can add a fresh pop of flavor and color. A tiny dust of smoked paprika or chili powder can spice things up if you’re feeling adventurous.
Side Dishes
These fries pair wonderfully with a crisp green salad, grilled chicken, or your favorite burger, offering a low carb alternative to traditional fries that complements any meal. They are also a fantastic snack alongside a bowl of hearty soup or chili.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve these zucchini fries stacked like a mini tower on a pretty platter with individual dipping cups of aioli, pesto, or even a lemony yogurt sauce. You can also chop them roughly and toss on a warm grain bowl for added crunch and flavor.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover zucchini fries in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To keep their crispiness, place a paper towel at the bottom to absorb moisture and prevent sogginess.
Freezing
While these fries are best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze them. Lay the cooked fries on a parchment-lined tray and flash freeze before transferring them to a freezer bag. Reheat directly from frozen for a quick snack, though the texture may soften slightly.
Reheating
The best way to reheat your zucchini fries is to pop them back into the air fryer at 375°F for 3-5 minutes. This revives their crispy texture without making them soggy like a microwave would.
FAQs
Can I use other vegetables for this recipe?
Absolutely! While zucchini is the star here, vegetables like yellow squash or eggplant can also work well with similar cooking times and seasoning for tasty, low carb fries.
Do I have to peel the zucchini?
No need to peel your zucchini. The skin adds extra nutrients and helps keep the fries firm during air frying, as well as lending a nice color contrast.
What if I don’t have an air fryer?
If you don’t have an air fryer, you can bake these zucchini fries on a parchment-lined baking sheet at 425°F for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway to get that golden crisp.
How do I make the fries extra crispy?
Ensure your zucchini strips are as uniformly cut as possible and avoid overcrowding the air fryer. Using freshly grated parmesan rather than pre-grated also helps boost crispiness.
Are these fries suitable for keto diets?
Yes! This Easy Zucchini Air Fryer Fries (Low Carb, No Breading) Recipe is perfect for keto and low carb diets, thanks to the no breading approach and the natural low-carb content of zucchini.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend the Easy Zucchini Air Fryer Fries (Low Carb, No Breading) Recipe enough if you want a fast, healthy snack or side that doesn’t compromise on flavor or texture. It’s a little bit of crispy heaven that’s ready in minutes and sure to become your go-to whenever you crave something crunchy and delicious. Give it a try—you’ll love how simple ingredients turn into a satisfying, wholesome treat!
PrintEasy Zucchini Air Fryer Fries (Low Carb, No Breading) Recipe
These Easy Zucchini Air Fryer Fries are a delicious, low-carb snack or side dish that’s quick to prepare and requires no breading. Lightly coated with Parmesan cheese and spices, these zucchini fries come out crispy and flavorful thanks to air frying, making them a healthier alternative to traditional fried fries.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Snack
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Carb
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 2 medium zucchini (about 1 1/2 lbs)
Seasoning & Coating
- 1 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/8 tsp onion powder
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
Others
- Cooking spray (optional, to spray air fryer trays or basket)
Instructions
- Prepare the zucchini: First, wash the zucchini thoroughly and pat them dry using a paper towel to remove excess moisture.
- Cut the zucchini: Trim off the ends of each zucchini, then slice them into strips about four inches long. Ensure the strips are as uniform in size as possible so they cook evenly in the air fryer.
- Mix seasoning: In a large mixing bowl, combine the grated Parmesan cheese, extra virgin olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Stir well until all the ingredients are evenly mixed.
- Coat zucchini strips: Add the zucchini strips to the bowl and toss them in the Parmesan mixture thoroughly, making sure each strip is coated on all sides for maximum flavor.
- Preheat the air fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for a few minutes, or follow your air fryer manufacturer’s instructions if different.
- Arrange zucchini in air fryer: Place the coated zucchini strips in a single layer on the air fryer trays or basket. Avoid overlapping so air can circulate properly and ensure even crisping. Optionally, spray the tray or basket lightly with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Air fry the zucchini fries: Set your air fryer at 400°F and cook for 10 minutes. Flip the fries halfway through cooking to ensure both sides turn golden brown and crispy. Note that if using multiple trays, the top tray cooks faster—remove it first and swap the bottom tray upwards to cook evenly.
- Serve and enjoy: Once cooked, carefully remove the zucchini fries from the air fryer and let them cool slightly. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce like tomato sauce or ranch dressing.
Notes
- Cut zucchini uniformly for even cooking.
- Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket to ensure crispy fries.
- Adjust seasoning to your taste, adding more Parmesan or spices if desired.
- If you don’t have an air fryer, these can be baked at 425°F for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway.
- Serve immediately for best crispiness, as the fries can soften if left to sit too long.
