Ingredients:

  • 2 medium zucchinis (approx. 1 lb / 450g), cut into ¼-inch sticks
  • 1 tsp (6g) fine sea salt
  • ½ cup (65g) all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 1 cup (60g) Panko breadcrumbs
  • 1 tsp (3g) garlic powder
  • ½ tsp (1g) smoked paprika
  • 2 tbsp (30ml) olive oil spray

Instructions:

  1. Toss the zucchini sticks with 1 tsp of salt on a baking sheet and let them sit for 10–15 minutes to draw out excess moisture.
  2. Use paper towels to firmly pat each zucchini stick dry to ensure the breading adheres and doesn't become soggy.
  3. Prepare a breading station with three bowls: one with all-purpose flour mixed with garlic powder and smoked paprika, one with beaten eggs, and one with Panko breadcrumbs.
  4. Coat each zucchini stick in flour (shaking off excess), dip in the beaten eggs, and press firmly into the Panko breadcrumbs until fully enveloped.
  5. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with olive oil and arrange the fries in a single layer without overlapping.
  6. Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 8–10 minutes.
  7. Halfway through cooking, spray the tops of the fries with olive oil and shake the basket gently for an even, golden-brown finish.