Crispy Parmesan Zucchini Sticks (Air Fryer or Oven)
Golden on the outside and tender on the inside, these Parmesan-crusted zucchini sticks are a healthy and irresistible snack the whole family will love. Ready in just 15 minutes in the air fryer, they work beautifully as an appetizer, side dish, or light lunch alongside a fresh salad.
🛒 Ingredients
4 servings
- 2 medium zucchini
- 2 eggs
- 80 g fine breadcrumbs or panko
- 50 g freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- Olive oil for brushing
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Directions
- 1
Cut the zucchini into even sticks about 1 cm thick. Sprinkle lightly with salt and let them rest for 10 minutes on paper towels to draw out excess moisture — this keeps the coating crispy during cooking.
- 2
Set up two shallow bowls: in the first, whisk the eggs with black pepper and smoked paprika; in the second, combine the breadcrumbs (or panko) with the grated Parmesan until evenly mixed.
- 3
Dip each zucchini stick into the egg mixture, then roll it in the breadcrumb-Parmesan blend, pressing gently to coat all sides evenly.
- 4
Air fryer method: preheat to 200 °C (390 °F) for 5 minutes. Arrange the sticks in a single layer in the basket, brush with olive oil, and cook for 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway through for an even golden colour.
- 5
Oven method: preheat to 200 °C (390 °F). Lay the sticks on a parchment-lined baking sheet, brush with olive oil, and bake for 25–35 minutes, turning halfway, until deeply golden and crispy.
💡 Chef's Tip
Use panko instead of regular breadcrumbs for an extra crunchy texture. Serve immediately — they soften quickly — with a garlic yogurt dip, marinara sauce, or a squeeze of fresh lemon.
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