Oven-Baked Lemon & Herb Zucchini Fries: A Healthy Twist on Classic Fries
Looking for a healthy, flavorful alternative to regular fries? These Oven-Baked Lemon & Herb Zucchini Fries are the perfect choice for anyone who loves a crispy snack without the added guilt of fried food. These fries are not only light and nutritious but packed with zesty lemon and aromatic herbs, making them an irresistible treat. Whether you’re in the mood for a crunchy snack or need a veggie side dish to accompany your main course, this recipe is a great option.
Cuisine: Continental
Course: Appetizer
Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Green zucchini | 2, cut into thin long strips |
| Extra virgin olive oil | 1 tablespoon |
| Dry mixed herbs | 2 tablespoons |
| Lemon juice | 1 tablespoon |
| Salt | To taste |
| Red chili flakes | 1 teaspoon |
| Whole wheat bread crumbs | 1 cup |
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: Serves 2-3
Instructions:
-
Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 220°C (430°F). This ensures that your zucchini fries will bake evenly and get perfectly crispy.
-
Prepare the Zucchini Strips: In a mixing bowl, place the zucchini strips. Drizzle over the extra virgin olive oil, and then add the dry mixed herbs, lemon juice, salt to taste, and red chili flakes. Toss everything well to ensure that the zucchini strips are fully coated in the herb and spice mixture. Let this mixture rest for about 15 minutes to allow the flavors to marinate and infuse into the zucchini.
-
Coat the Zucchini Strips: Place the whole wheat bread crumbs in a deep bowl. One by one, take each zucchini strip from the herb mixture and dunk it into the bread crumbs, ensuring it is evenly coated on all sides.
-
Arrange on a Baking Tray: Lay the bread crumb-coated zucchini strips on a baking tray, making sure they are spaced out so they can crisp up evenly.
-
Bake the Fries: Bake the zucchini fries in the preheated oven for about 16-18 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy. If you’d like an extra crispy texture, feel free to bake them for an additional 2-3 minutes.
-
Serve: Once done, remove the tray from the oven and transfer the zucchini fries to a serving platter. Serve them hot for the best taste and texture.
Serving Suggestions:
- As an Evening Snack: These zucchini fries make for a perfect, guilt-free evening snack. Pair them with a Homemade Healthy Sour Cream for a creamy dip.
- As Part of a Meal: Serve alongside a delicious Veg Chili Cheese Burger and a refreshing Ice Tea Sangria to create a full, satisfying meal.
Why You’ll Love These Zucchini Fries:
- Healthy: By baking rather than frying, these zucchini fries are a much healthier option compared to traditional fries. The use of whole wheat bread crumbs adds a wholesome touch, and the zucchini provides vitamins, minerals, and fiber.
- Flavorful: The combination of lemon, herbs, and a hint of red chili flakes gives these fries a unique and vibrant flavor. It’s a perfect balance of freshness and spice that will satisfy your cravings.
- Versatile: These fries are great for various occasions – from casual snack time to serving as a side with a larger meal.
Give this recipe a try and enjoy these crispy, flavorful Oven-Baked Lemon & Herb Zucchini Fries that everyone will love!
