These zucchini fries are crispy, golden, and full of flavor, making them a perfect appetizer or side dish. They’re baked or air-fried instead of deep-fried, offering a lighter alternative to traditional fries. Paired with a creamy herbed yogurt dip, these fries bring together crunchy texture and tangy, fresh flavor in every bite. They’re ideal for parties, game days, or just a fun way to enjoy your vegetables.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Crispy fries made without deep frying
A tasty way to get more veggies into your meals
Flavorful, fresh, and herby dip that pairs perfectly with the fries
Easily adaptable with different herbs and seasonings
Great for entertaining or healthy snacking
Can be made gluten-free or dairy-free with simple swaps
Kid-friendly and adult-approved
Made with everyday ingredients
No need for fancy equipment—an oven or air fryer works
Make-ahead friendly for parts of the recipe

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the zucchini fries:

4 medium zucchini
1½ teaspoons flaky sea salt (used for drawing out moisture)
¼ cup all-purpose flour
3 large egg whites
1 cup panko breadcrumbs
¾ cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon dried oregano
¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
Cooking oil spray (for crisping and browning)

For the herbed yogurt dip:

1 cup Greek-style yogurt (preferably full-fat for creaminess)
1 small clove garlic, finely grated
3 tablespoons finely chopped fresh chives
2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley
1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
½ teaspoon flaky sea salt
¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Directions

Prep the zucchini: Wash and dry the zucchini. Cut off the ends, then slice each zucchini in half crosswise. Cut each half in half lengthwise, then into thick wedges about ½ inch wide.
Salt the zucchini: Place the zucchini wedges in a colander set over a bowl. Sprinkle with 1½ teaspoons flaky sea salt and toss to coat. Let sit for 30 minutes to draw out moisture.
Rinse and dry: After 30 minutes, rinse the salted zucchini under cold water to remove excess salt. Pat the wedges completely dry with clean paper towels. This step is essential for crispiness.
Make the dip: In a small bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, grated garlic, chopped chives, parsley, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Stir well. Cover and refrigerate until ready to serve.
Prepare the coating: In a food processor, combine panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, dried oregano, and cayenne pepper. Pulse until slightly finer in texture, about 10–15 seconds. Transfer to a shallow tray or dish.
Set up the breading station: Place the flour in a shallow bowl. Whisk the egg whites in another shallow bowl until slightly foamy.
Coat the zucchini: Working in batches, dredge each zucchini wedge in flour, tapping off the excess. Dip into the foamy egg whites, then press into the breadcrumb mixture, coating all sides. Transfer to a clean plate.
Preheat air fryer or oven: Set air fryer or oven to 425°F (220°C).
Cook the fries: Arrange the coated zucchini wedges in a single layer in the air fryer basket or on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Lightly spray with cooking oil on all sides. Cook for about 16 minutes, flipping once halfway, until golden brown and crisp.
Serve: Serve hot with the chilled herbed yogurt dip.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Prep time: 35 minutes (includes 30 minutes for salting zucchini)
Cook time: 16 minutes
Total time: Approximately 51 minutes

Variations

Gluten-free: Use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs and a gluten-free flour blend.
Dairy-free: Omit the Parmesan cheese and replace it with nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor. Use a dairy-free yogurt in the dip.
Spicy version: Add extra cayenne or a pinch of smoked paprika for heat.
Different herbs: Use dill, mint, or basil in place of parsley and chives for a different flavor profile.
Alternate dips: Serve with marinara, ranch, tahini, or a spicy aioli instead of the yogurt dip.
Nutty coating: Swap some of the breadcrumbs for crushed almonds or walnuts for added texture and flavor.
Cheesy crust: Add extra Parmesan or even finely grated Pecorino Romano for a sharper, saltier flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftover zucchini fries in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Store the herbed yogurt dip separately.
Reheating: To reheat, place the fries in an air fryer or oven at 400°F (200°C) for 5–8 minutes until heated through and crispy. Avoid microwaving, which will make them soft.
Dip storage: The yogurt dip will keep for 2–3 days in the refrigerator. Stir before serving.

FAQs

How do I keep the zucchini fries from getting soggy?

Make sure to salt, rinse, and pat the zucchini completely dry before breading. Don’t skip this step—it removes moisture and helps the coating crisp.

Can I use yellow squash instead of zucchini?

Yes, yellow squash works similarly and can be used in place of zucchini with no major changes.

Do I have to use a food processor for the coating?

While it helps make the breadcrumbs finer and ensures even mixing, you can mix everything by hand if needed. Just make sure the Parmesan is finely grated.

Can I make these ahead of time?

You can prepare the dip and the coating in advance. However, for best results, coat and cook the zucchini just before serving so they stay crisp.

What’s the best way to slice zucchini for fries?

Cut them into ½-inch thick wedges—think the size of steak fries. Uniform pieces ensure even cooking.

Can I freeze these?

These fries are best enjoyed fresh. Freezing is not recommended, as the zucchini can become watery when thawed, and the coating may lose its crunch.

Can I use whole eggs instead of egg whites?

Yes. Whole eggs can be used, but using only egg whites results in a lighter, crisper coating.

Is there a substitute for Parmesan cheese?

Yes. You can use Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.

Can I make the dip thicker or thinner?

To thicken the dip, use full-fat Greek yogurt or strain it. To thin it, add a bit of milk or lemon juice to loosen the texture.

What can I serve these with?

They pair well with grilled meats, sandwiches, burgers, or can be served alone as a healthy snack or appetizer.

Conclusion

Zucchini fries with herbed yogurt dip are a flavorful, crispy, and wholesome treat that’s simple to prepare and easy to customize. Whether you’re hosting guests or looking for a healthy side dish, this recipe delivers both crunch and creaminess in every bite. Once you try them, these veggie-packed fries might just become a regular in your kitchen rotation.

Zucchini Fries with Herbed Yogurt Dip