Crisp, golden zucchini fries come together fast in the air fryer for a low-carb, family-friendly snack or side. This Air Fryer Zucchini Fries (Low Carb Keto) recipe uses almond flour and parmesan for a crunchy, savory crust without grains, perfect for busy weeknights or an easy appetizer paired with other air fryer favorites like air fryer broccoli cheddar poppers.
Why You’ll Love This Air Fryer Zucchini Fries (Low Carb Keto)
- Crunchy, cheesy coating with very little hands-on time.
- Low carb and keto-friendly without sacrificing flavor.
- Air fryer makes them faster and less greasy than deep frying.
- Great for meal prep and reheats well in the air fryer.
- Kid-approved finger food that works as an appetizer or side.
Ingredients Needed
Veggies
- 2 medium zucchinis, ends trimmed
Coating
- 1/2 cup superfine almond flour
- 1/2 cup finely grated parmesan cheese
Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
Binder & Oil
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- Avocado oil spray or olive oil spray
For a different crunchy coating, consider the technique used in our air fryer apple fries recipe as inspiration.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Wash and thoroughly dry the zucchinis. Cut them into 1/2-inch thick sticks, approximately 3-4 inches in length.
- Spread the zucchini sticks on a clean paper towel and pat firmly to remove excess moisture; this step is critical for achieving a crispy exterior.
- Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C). In a shallow bowl, whisk the eggs until the whites and yolks are fully combined. In a second shallow bowl, combine the almond flour, grated parmesan, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper, whisking to distribute seasonings evenly.
- Working in small batches, dip each zucchini stick into the egg wash, allowing excess to drip off, then dredge in the almond flour mixture and press the coating onto the zucchini to ensure full coverage.
- Arrange the breaded sticks in a single layer in the air fryer basket with at least 1/4 inch of space between sticks for proper airflow; lightly spray the tops with cooking oil spray.
- Air fry at 400°F for 6 minutes, flip the sticks carefully using tongs, spray the other side lightly with oil, and air fry for an additional 4-6 minutes until golden brown and crispy. Remove from the air fryer and serve immediately to maintain texture.
Serving Suggestions Air Fryer Zucchini Fries (Low Carb Keto)
- Serve with a garlic herb mayo or sugar-free marinara for dipping.
- Top with extra grated parmesan and chopped parsley for a fresh finish.
- Pair with protein like grilled chicken or fish for a main course.
- Make a veggie platter with air fryer buffalo cauliflower for a spicy contrast.
- Offer lemon wedges on the side to brighten the flavors.
Tips for Success Air Fryer Zucchini Fries (Low Carb Keto)
- Drying the zucchini well is the most important step to get a crisp crust.
- Use superfine almond flour so the coating adheres smoothly and crisps evenly.
- Don’t overcrowd the basket; cook in batches for consistent browning.
- Light oil spray helps the coating turn golden without deep frying.
- Reheat leftovers in the air fryer at 350°F for 3–4 minutes to restore crispness.
Variations
Here are a few easy ways to change it up:
- Make it spicy: add 1/4 teaspoon cayenne or red pepper flakes to the coating mix.
- Dairy-free option: omit parmesan and increase almond flour by 1/4 cup, add extra seasoning for flavor.
- Add herbs: fold 1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil or parsley into the coating for a bright twist.
Air Fryer Zucchini Fries (Low Carb Keto)
Crisp, golden zucchini fries made in the air fryer for a low-carb, family-friendly snack or side, featuring a crunchy almond flour and parmesan coating.
Ingredients
Veggies
- 2 medium zucchinis, ends trimmed
Coating
- 1/2 cup superfine almond flour Use superfine almond flour for best results.
- 1/2 cup finely grated parmesan cheese
Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
Binder & Oil
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- Avocado oil spray or olive oil spray
Instructions
Preparation
- Wash and thoroughly dry the zucchinis. Cut them into 1/2-inch thick sticks, approximately 3-4 inches in length.
- Spread the zucchini sticks on a clean paper towel and pat firmly to remove excess moisture.
- Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C). In a shallow bowl, whisk the eggs until fully combined.
- In a second shallow bowl, combine the almond flour, grated parmesan, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
Coating
- Dip each zucchini stick into the egg wash, allowing excess to drip off, then dredge in the almond flour mixture.
- Press the coating onto the zucchini to ensure full coverage.
Cooking
- Arrange the breaded sticks in a single layer in the air fryer basket with at least 1/4 inch of space between sticks and lightly spray the tops with cooking oil spray.
- Air fry at 400°F for 6 minutes, flip the sticks carefully, spray the other side lightly with oil, and air fry for an additional 4-6 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
- Remove from the air fryer and serve immediately.
Notes
Drying the zucchini well is crucial for a crispy crust. Light oil spray helps achieve a golden finish without deep frying. You can reheat leftovers in the air fryer at 350°F for 3–4 minutes.