Name: Seasoned Zucchini Curly Fries Recipe
Ingredients: Fresh Zucchini: 2 medium-large zucchini (about 1.5 pounds). Opt for firm, dark green zucchini for the best texture and flavor. Smaller zucchini tend to be less watery and have fewer seeds, making them ideal for frying.; Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons. Extra virgin olive oil is recommended for its flavor and health benefits, but any neutral cooking oil like avocado oil or grapeseed oil will work well. Olive oil helps the seasoning adhere to the zucchini and promotes crisping in the oven.; Grated Parmesan Cheese: 1/4 cup (optional, but highly recommended). Parmesan cheese adds a savory, salty depth of flavor and contributes to the crispy texture. Freshly grated parmesan is always preferable for its superior taste and melting quality, but pre-grated parmesan can also be used for convenience. For a dairy-free option, nutritional yeast can be substituted to provide a cheesy, umami flavor.; Paprika: 1 teaspoon. Paprika adds a subtle smoky sweetness and vibrant color to the fries. Smoked paprika will enhance the smoky flavor, while sweet paprika provides a milder, sweeter note.; Garlic Powder: 1 teaspoon. Garlic powder delivers a consistent garlic flavor throughout the fries, without the risk of burning fresh garlic in the oven.; Onion Powder: 1/2 teaspoon. Onion powder complements the garlic and adds a savory, umami undertone to the seasoning blend.; Dried Oregano: 1/2 teaspoon. Oregano provides a slightly earthy and herbaceous note that balances the other spices and adds complexity to the flavor profile. Dried Italian seasoning can be used as a substitute for a blend of herbs.; Salt: 1/2 teaspoon (or to taste). Salt is crucial for enhancing the flavors of all the other ingredients. Kosher salt or sea salt are preferred for their clean taste and texture. Adjust the amount of salt according to your preference and dietary needs.; Black Pepper: 1/4 teaspoon (or to taste). Freshly ground black pepper adds a touch of warmth and spice. Adjust the amount to your liking.

Ingredients

Fresh Zucchini: 2 medium-large zucchini (about 1.5 pounds). Opt for firm, dark green zucchini for the best texture and flavor. Smaller zucchini tend to be less watery and have fewer seeds, making them ideal for frying.

Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons. Extra virgin olive oil is recommended for its flavor and health benefits, but any neutral cooking oil like avocado oil or grapeseed oil will work well. Olive oil helps the seasoning adhere to the zucchini and promotes crisping in the oven.

Grated Parmesan Cheese: 1/4 cup (optional, but highly recommended). Parmesan cheese adds a savory, salty depth of flavor and contributes to the crispy texture. Freshly grated parmesan is always preferable for its superior taste and melting quality, but pre-grated parmesan can also be used for convenience. For a dairy-free option, nutritional yeast can be substituted to provide a cheesy, umami flavor.

Paprika: 1 teaspoon. Paprika adds a subtle smoky sweetness and vibrant color to the fries. Smoked paprika will enhance the smoky flavor, while sweet paprika provides a milder, sweeter note.

Garlic Powder: 1 teaspoon. Garlic powder delivers a consistent garlic flavor throughout the fries, without the risk of burning fresh garlic in the oven.

Onion Powder: 1/2 teaspoon. Onion powder complements the garlic and adds a savory, umami undertone to the seasoning blend.

Dried Oregano: 1/2 teaspoon. Oregano provides a slightly earthy and herbaceous note that balances the other spices and adds complexity to the flavor profile. Dried Italian seasoning can be used as a substitute for a blend of herbs.

Salt: 1/2 teaspoon (or to taste). Salt is crucial for enhancing the flavors of all the other ingredients. Kosher salt or sea salt are preferred for their clean taste and texture. Adjust the amount of salt according to your preference and dietary needs.

Black Pepper: 1/4 teaspoon (or to taste). Freshly ground black pepper adds a touch of warmth and spice. Adjust the amount to your liking.

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Instructions

Preheat the Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. Parchment paper prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze. If you don’t have parchment paper, lightly grease the baking sheet with olive oil.

Prepare the Zucchini: Wash the zucchini thoroughly and trim off the ends. Using a spiralizer, cut the zucchini into curly fries. If you don’t have a spiralizer, you can cut the zucchini into thin strips or matchsticks. For spiralizing, choose the blade that creates medium-thick strands for optimal texture and crispiness. If cutting by hand, aim for uniform strips about 1/4 inch thick and 2-3 inches long. Uniformity in size will ensure even cooking.

Remove Excess Moisture: This is a crucial step for achieving crispy zucchini fries. Zucchini is naturally high in water content, and excess moisture will lead to soggy fries. Place the spiralized zucchini or zucchini strips in a colander set over a bowl. Sprinkle lightly with salt (about 1/4 teaspoon) and toss gently. The salt will draw out the moisture. Let the zucchini sit in the colander for about 15-20 minutes. After 15-20 minutes, gently squeeze the zucchini with your hands or pat it dry with paper towels to remove as much excess moisture as possible. The drier the zucchini, the crispier your fries will be.

Prepare the Seasoning Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, parmesan cheese (if using), paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Whisk together until well combined. Ensure all the spices are evenly distributed in the olive oil.

Toss Zucchini with Seasoning: Add the drained and dried zucchini to the bowl with the seasoning mixture. Toss gently but thoroughly to coat the zucchini evenly with the oil and spices. Use your hands to gently massage the seasoning into the zucchini, ensuring every strand is coated. Even coating is key for flavorful fries.

Arrange Zucchini on Baking Sheet: Spread the seasoned zucchini in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Avoid overcrowding the baking sheet, as this will steam the zucchini instead of baking it, resulting in soggy fries. If necessary, use two baking sheets to ensure the zucchini is spread out in a single layer. Spacing the fries allows for proper air circulation and even browning.

Bake the Zucchini Fries: Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. After about 10 minutes, flip the fries gently with tongs or a spatula to ensure even browning and crisping on both sides. Keep an eye on the fries towards the end of the baking time, as they can burn quickly if overbaked. The baking time may vary slightly depending on your oven and the thickness of the zucchini fries.

Serve Immediately: For the best crispiness, serve the Seasoned Zucchini Curly Fries immediately after baking. They are most delicious when hot and fresh. Transfer them to a serving plate and enjoy with your favorite dipping sauces.

Nutrition

Serving Size: one normal portion
Calories: 120-150