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Air Fryer Mexican Zucchini Fries offer a healthy and delicious twist on traditional fries.
They’re crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, with a zesty Mexican flavor that’s sure to please your taste buds.
Made with fresh zucchini, these fries are a great low-carb, gluten-free alternative to regular fries.
Using the air fryer to cook these zucchini fries ensures they come out perfectly crisp without the need for excess oil.
This makes them a healthier snack or side dish that you can enjoy guilt-free.
Whether you’re serving them at a party or enjoying them as a quick snack, these Mexican Zucchini Fries are a crowd favorite.
Ingredients for Mexican Zucchini Fries
To make the perfect Air Fryer Mexican Zucchini Fries, you’ll need a few simple ingredients.
Fresh Zucchini
Start with 2 medium zucchinis.
These will be sliced into strips to mimic the shape of fries.
Mexican Seasoning
For the Mexican twist, you’ll need a mix of chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and paprika.
These spices will bring warmth and depth to the fries.
Flour
A small amount of all-purpose flour will help the coating stick to the zucchini.
If you want a gluten-free option, you can substitute this with almond flour or a gluten-free flour blend.
Cornstarch
Cornstarch helps to create a crispy texture by preventing excess moisture from the zucchini.
Eggs
Two large eggs will be used to dip the zucchini before coating them with the breadcrumb mixture.
Breadcrumbs
Panko breadcrumbs or regular breadcrumbs will add the crunchy coating to the fries.
For a twist, you can use seasoned breadcrumbs for extra flavor.
Olive Oil Spray
A light spray of olive oil before air frying ensures that the fries crisp up perfectly without being overly greasy.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Air Fryer Mexican Zucchini Fries
Prepare the Zucchini
Begin by washing the zucchinis thoroughly.
Slice them into long, thin strips.
Make sure they are roughly the same size for even cooking.
After slicing, place them on a paper towel and gently pat them dry to remove excess moisture.
This will help the coating stick better and prevent sogginess during cooking.
Coat the Zucchini Fries
In a shallow bowl, whisk the eggs together.
In a separate bowl, mix the flour, cornstarch, and your Mexican seasoning blend.
In another bowl, place the breadcrumbs.
Dip each zucchini strip into the egg mixture.
Then coat it with the flour-spice mixture.
Finally, roll the zucchini in the breadcrumbs to ensure it’s evenly coated.
Air Fry the Zucchini Fries
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 5 minutes.
Lightly spray the air fryer basket with olive oil to prevent sticking.
Place the zucchini fries in the basket in a single layer.
Make sure not to overcrowd them.
Air fry for 10-12 minutes, flipping them halfway through the cooking time.
Once golden and crispy, remove them from the air fryer and set them aside.
Tips and Variations for Perfect Zucchini Fries
Achieving the Perfect Crisp
To make sure your zucchini fries are extra crispy, be sure to pat the zucchini dry after slicing. This helps remove excess moisture that can make the fries soggy.
Customize the Seasoning
Feel free to adjust the spice level according to your preference. Add more chili powder for extra heat, or experiment with smoked paprika for a deeper, smokier flavor.
Vegan Option
For a vegan version, you can skip the eggs and substitute them with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water) or any plant-based egg alternative.
Gluten-Free Option
Substitute the all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour and use gluten-free breadcrumbs to make this recipe completely gluten-free.
Add Cheese
For a cheesy twist, you can add grated Parmesan to the breadcrumb mixture. This will give your fries a delightful cheesy crust.
Air Fryer Tip
Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket. Arrange the zucchini fries in a single layer to ensure they cook evenly and get that crispy texture. If needed, cook them in batches.
Make it a Meal
These zucchini fries can be served as a side dish with tacos or grilled chicken, or you can even enjoy them as a light main course when paired with a side of guacamole and salsa.
Nutritional Information
Calories
Each serving of Air Fryer Mexican Zucchini Fries (about 6-8 fries) contains approximately 150-180 calories. This varies depending on the size of the zucchini and the amount of oil used.
Carbohydrates
The zucchini fries are low in carbs, with around 12 grams per serving, making them a great option for those following a low-carb or keto diet.
Protein
Zucchini fries offer a modest amount of protein, with roughly 4-6 grams per serving due to the eggs and breadcrumbs.
Fat
Each serving contains approximately 7-10 grams of fat, mostly from the olive oil used for crisping the fries.
Fiber
Zucchini is a great source of fiber, and each serving contains about 2-3 grams, which helps promote digestive health.
Sodium
The sodium content will depend on how much salt you add to the seasoning, but it’s generally around 300-400 mg per serving.
These fries are a healthier alternative to traditional fries, providing a good balance of nutrients while still satisfying your cravings for something crispy and flavorful.
Conclusion
Air Fryer Mexican Zucchini Fries are a perfect combination of healthy, flavorful, and crispy.
They offer a delicious alternative to regular fries, making them a great snack or side dish for any occasion.
With the air fryer, you can enjoy that crispy texture without all the excess oil, and the Mexican seasoning gives these fries a unique and vibrant flavor.
Whether you’re craving something light and crunchy or looking for a fun twist on your typical fries, this recipe will definitely satisfy.
Give it a try, and enjoy a guilt-free, tasty treat!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make Air Fryer Mexican Zucchini Fries ahead of time?
Yes, you can prep the zucchini fries in advance by coating them and storing them in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When ready to cook, simply air fry them as directed.
2. How do I store leftovers?
If you have leftovers, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate them for up to 2-3 days. To reheat, use the air fryer for a few minutes to bring back the crispiness.
3. Can I freeze these zucchini fries?
Yes, you can freeze the uncoated zucchini fries. Lay them out on a baking sheet and freeze until firm, then transfer them to a ziplock bag. When ready to cook, air fry them straight from the freezer for about 15-18 minutes at 400°F.
4. Why are my zucchini fries soggy?
Soggy fries can result from excess moisture in the zucchini. Make sure to pat the zucchini dry with paper towels before coating them. Also, avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket to allow for even air circulation.
5. Can I make these zucchini fries without breadcrumbs?
Yes, you can skip the breadcrumbs and use a coating of crushed nuts, seeds, or even cornmeal for a different texture. You can also make them completely naked and air fry them as a lighter option.
Air Fryer Mexican Zucchini Fries
Equipment
- Air Fryer (1)
- Cutting Board – 1
- Knife (1)
- Shallow bowls (3)
- Paper towels (1)
- Cooking spray (1)
Ingredients
- 2 medium zucchinis
- 2 large eggs
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour or gluten-free flour
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
- Olive oil spray for spraying
Instructions
- Prepare the Zucchini: Wash the zucchinis thoroughly and slice them into thin, even strips (about 3-4 inches long).
- Dry the Zucchini: Pat the zucchini strips dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps the coating stick better and prevents sogginess.
Coat the Zucchini Fries:
- In a shallow bowl, whisk together the eggs.
- In another shallow bowl, combine the flour, cornstarch, chili powder, paprika, garlic powder, and cumin.
- In a third shallow bowl, place the panko breadcrumbs.
- Dip each zucchini strip first into the egg mixture, then coat it in the flour-spice mixture, and finally, roll it in the breadcrumbs until fully coated.
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes.
- Air Fry the Zucchini Fries: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with olive oil. Place the zucchini fries in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding the basket to ensure even cooking. Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
- Serve: Remove the zucchini fries from the air fryer and serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce, such as guacamole, salsa, or sour cream.
Notes
- Crispiness: To achieve the perfect crispy fries, make sure to pat the zucchini dry before coating it. This helps prevent moisture from making the fries soggy.
- Air Fryer Tip: Arrange the fries in a single layer without overcrowding. If needed, cook in batches to ensure even crisping.
- Seasoning Variations: Feel free to adjust the spices to your taste. Add more chili powder for heat, or experiment with smoked paprika for a deeper flavor.
- Storage: Leftover fries can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Reheat them in the air fryer for a few minutes to bring back the crispiness.
