Name: Crispy Baked Zucchini Fries with Aioli Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 medium zucchinis; 1 egg, whisked; ½ cup panko breadcrumbs; ½ cup grated Parmigiano-Reggiano; 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning; 1 teaspoon sea salt; ¼ cup Greek yogurt; ¼ cup mayo; Juice from 1 lemon, 2-3 Tablespoons; 1 clove garlic, minced; Fresh parsley, for garnish; Salt and pepper to taste

There’s something irresistibly satisfying about the crunch of homemade fries, but with a fresh twist—let me introduce you to my Crispy Baked Zucchini Fries with Aioli Recipe. These fries are golden, crispy, and paired with a tangy, garlicky aioli that elevates every bite. Trust me, once you try these, zucchini will never be just a side vegetable again.

The image shows many crispy zucchini sticks coated in a golden, crunchy breadcrumb mix with green herb flecks, arranged around a small white bowl filled with creamy, white ranch sauce topped with chopped green herbs. A woman's hand is dipping one of the zucchini sticks into the sauce. The food is on a white plate with a thin brown rim, and the background is a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Jump to:

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Ingredients & Why They Work
Make It Your Way
Step-by-Step: How I Make Crispy Baked Zucchini Fries with Aioli Recipe
Top Tip
How to Serve Crispy Baked Zucchini Fries with Aioli Recipe
Make Ahead and Storage
Frequently Asked Questions:
Final Thoughts
Crispy Baked Zucchini Fries with Aioli Recipe

Why You'll Love This Recipe

These zucchini fries have quickly become a staple in my kitchen. Crispy, light, and perfectly seasoned, they satisfy that craving for something crunchy without the guilt of deep frying. Plus, the homemade aioli dipping sauce brings a fresh brightness that’s just unmatched.

Better for you: Baking the fries instead of frying means less oil but all the crunch you want.
Simple ingredients: You probably have everything in your pantry already, so it’s super accessible.
Perfectly balanced flavors: The savory parmesan and Italian seasoning pair so well with the tangy aioli.
Great for sharing: These fries look so inviting on any snack or appetizer table, making them a crowd favorite.

Ingredients & Why They Work

This recipe is all about simple, fresh ingredients coming together to create a crunchy, flavorful snack. Each component plays a key role—zucchini brings that tender base, while the parmesan and panko coating add crispness and umami. The aioli is where fresh lemon and garlic shine, turning these fries into a sauce-worthy delight.

Flat lay of two fresh green zucchinis, one whole brown egg with uncracked shell, a small white ceramic bowl filled with light golden panko breadcrumbs, a small white ceramic bowl of finely grated pale yellow Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese, a small white ceramic bowl containing mixed dried Italian seasoning herbs, a small white ceramic bowl with coarse sea salt crystals, a small white ceramic bowl with creamy white Greek yogurt, a small white ceramic bowl with smooth pale mayonnaise, a small white ceramic bowl holding freshly squeezed lemon juice, one peeled garlic clove, a few sprigs of vibrant green fresh parsley leaves placed on a clean white marble surface, soft natural light, photo taken with an iPhone, professional food photography style, fresh ingredients, white ceramic bowls, no bottles, no duplicates, no utensils, no packaging --ar 2:3 --v 7 --p m7354615311229779997

Zucchini: Choosing medium-sized zucchinis ensures fries that hold their shape and crisp up nicely.
Egg: Acts as the glue to hold the breadcrumb coating tightly on each fry.
Panko Breadcrumbs: These light, airy crumbs create the much-desired crunch that regular breadcrumbs can’t match.
Parmigiano-Reggiano: Adds a salty, nutty depth that elevates the fries beyond ordinary.
Italian Seasoning: A blend of herbs that imparts warmth and complexity to the crust.
Sea Salt: Just the right amount for seasoning to balance flavors perfectly.
Greek Yogurt & Mayo (Aioli): Blend richness with tang, making the dipping sauce creamy and bright.
Lemon Juice: Adds a fresh zesty punch that cuts through the richness.
Garlic: Minced fresh garlic infuses the aioli with its classic aromatic flavor.
Fresh Parsley: Garnishes the aioli with a burst of color and herbaceous freshness.

Note: Exact ingredients and measurements are listed in the recipe card below.

Make It Your Way

I love to switch up the herbs in the coating sometimes—rosemary or smoked paprika can add a unique flair. And the aioli? Don’t hesitate to experiment with adding a bit of chipotle or swapping mayo for vegan mayo to suit your tastes.

Gluten-free variation: Using almond meal instead of panko breadcrumbs made these just as crisp for my gluten-sensitive friends.
Spicy kick: I’ve added cayenne to the breadcrumb mix when I’m craving a little heat, and trust me, it’s a game changer!
Dairy-free aioli: You can switch the parmesan for nutritional yeast and the dipping sauce to a vegan mayo base with lemon—equally delicious.

Step-by-Step: How I Make Crispy Baked Zucchini Fries with Aioli Recipe

The image shows a white plate filled with crispy zucchini sticks layered evenly around a small white bowl in the center. The zucchini sticks have a golden-brown crunchy coating that looks textured with herbs and breadcrumbs, showing green skin underneath with light yellow inside. The white bowl holds a thick, creamy white sauce topped with small green herb pieces. The whole plate is placed on a white marbled surface, with a soft striped cloth nearby. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Step 1: Prep Your Zucchini Like a Pro

Start by slicing the zucchinis into sticks that are as even as possible, about the size of a French fry. I like to slice each zucchini in half lengthwise, then quarter those halves widthwise before cutting into fries. Patting them dry with a paper towel before dipping helps get rid of excess moisture so your coating sticks better and the fries get nice and crispy.

Step 2: Mix Your Crunchy Coating

In a bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmigiano-Reggiano, Italian seasoning, and a good pinch of sea salt. I usually toss the mixture with my fingers to break up any clumps and evenly distribute the seasoning. This mix forms that irresistible crunchy crust that sets these fries apart.

Step 3: Coat and Bake with Care

Dip each zucchini fry into the whisked egg, letting excess drip off, then roll it in your breadcrumb mixture. Place them spaced out on a baking sheet lined with parchment or sprayed with oil to ensure even baking. Bake at 425°F for 10 minutes, then carefully flip and bake another 10 minutes. Patience here is key—the flip ensures both sides get that perfect golden crisp.

Step 4: Whip Up Your Fresh Aioli

While the fries bake, whisk together Greek yogurt, mayo, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, and a pinch of salt and pepper. The fresh parsley sprinkled on top adds a pretty, fresh pop. This aioli truly brings these fries to life—don’t skip it!

Top Tip

Through making these Crispy Baked Zucchini Fries with Aioli Recipe multiple times, I’ve learned a few tricks that really make a difference in the texture and flavor that you’ll want to try.

Don’t skip drying the zucchini: Removing moisture before breading helps the crust stick and get super crispy instead of soggy.
Use panko breadcrumbs: Their coarse texture is the secret to that satisfying crunch.
Flip halfway: Baking on one side only doesn’t get both sides crispy—flipping makes all the difference.
Let fries cool slightly before eating: They firm up just enough to hold their crunch while you dip away.

How to Serve Crispy Baked Zucchini Fries with Aioli Recipe

Garnishes

I like to sprinkle a bit of finely chopped fresh parsley or chives over the fries and aioli for color and a fresh herbal note. A squeeze of lemon over the fries just before serving gives it a bright lift that’s wonderful.

Side Dishes

These zucchini fries are incredibly versatile—pair them with grilled chicken for a light dinner, alongside a fresh green salad for lunch, or serve as an appetizer with a variety of dips at your next gathering.

Creative Ways to Present

For a dinner party, I like stacking the zucchini fries in a rustic jar or serving them on a long wooden board with small bowls of the aioli and other sauces for dipping. Adding colorful veggies like carrot sticks and bell pepper strips turns it into a vibrant veggie platter that everyone loves.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover zucchini fries store well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To keep them crispy, lay a paper towel between layers to absorb moisture and separate fries so they don’t get soggy.

Freezing

I’ve frozen these fries before by flash freezing them on a sheet pan first, then transferring them to a freezer bag. When properly frozen, they hold up well and can be baked directly from frozen—just add a couple minutes to the cooking time.

Reheating

To reheat and restore crispness, I find the best method is placing the fries on a baking sheet lined with foil and warming them in a 400°F oven for 5-7 minutes. Avoid microwaving as it instantly makes them soggy.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I make this Crispy Baked Zucchini Fries with Aioli Recipe vegan?

Absolutely! Swap out the egg for a flax or chia egg substitute, use vegan panko breadcrumbs and vegan Parmesan alternatives, and replace the mayo in the aioli with vegan mayo. The texture and flavors remain satisfying with these adjustments.

What makes zucchini fries crispy in the oven?

The key is drying the zucchini well before breading, using panko breadcrumbs instead of regular, and baking them at a high temperature (425°F). Flipping them halfway ensures both sides get evenly crisp.

Can I prepare the zucchini fries ahead of time?

Yes! You can prep and bread the fries up to a few hours ahead, then keep them refrigerated on a baking sheet covered loosely with plastic wrap. Just bake them fresh when you’re ready, which keeps them crispy and fresh.

How should I store leftover aioli?

Store leftover aioli in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Give it a good stir before serving again as ingredients can separate.

Final Thoughts

This Crispy Baked Zucchini Fries with Aioli Recipe is such a joy to make—it’s quick, uses fresh ingredients, and delivers crisp, flavorful results that always impress. I keep coming back to it because it’s perfect for any occasion, whether a casual snack or a fun party appetizer. Give them a try, and you might find your new favorite way to enjoy zucchini too!