Oven baked zucchini fries
Baked zucchini fries are a nutritious alternative to traditional French fries and other fried foods. They offer a satisfying crunch with significantly fewer calories and less fat, making them an excellent choice for health-conscious eaters.
Ingredients:
2-3 medium zucchini squash
1 large egg (use only the egg white)
1/2 cup panko bread crumbs
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Olive oil
Kosher or Pink Himalayan salt
Cookie sheet or 9x13 baking dish
Directions:
Preheat oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit.
Cut the ends off the zucchini, then cut them in half and slice into 1/2-inch thick slices. Next, slice the zucchini halves into 1/2-inch strips.
Sprinkle the zucchini strips generously with salt to draw out moisture and "sweat" the squash. Let it sit for about 20 minutes.
After 20 minutes, use a paper towel to blot the zucchini dry.
Lightly oil a cookie sheet or baking dish with olive oil. Alternatively, use parchment paper to prevent sticking without oil.
Separate the egg yolk from the egg white. Beat the egg white in a separate bowl.
In another bowl, or in a paper bag or large plastic bag, combine the panko bread crumbs and grated Parmesan cheese.
Coat a few pieces of zucchini in the egg white (3-4 pieces at a time), then transfer them to the bread crumbs and gently toss until coated. Small batches prevent clumping of the breadcrumbs.
Spread the coated zucchini evenly on the prepared cookie sheet or baking pan.
Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 15 minutes, or until golden brown, checking periodically.
Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauces, such as blue cheese, horseradish, or seasoned sour cream.