Crispy Zucchini Sticks
If you’re looking for a healthier alternative to traditional fried snacks or a new way to enjoy seasonal zucchini, these Crispy Zucchini Sticks are the perfect solution. With just a handful of pantry ingredients and minimal prep, this recipe transforms humble zucchini into crispy, golden perfection—oven-baked, not fried. Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer, a side dish, or a satisfying snack, these zucchini sticks are light, crunchy, and irresistibly flavorful.
Why You’ll Love These Crispy Zucchini Sticks
1. Healthy & Light
Unlike deep-fried versions, these zucchini sticks are baked with just a touch of olive oil. The result? A crispy exterior without the heaviness of oil-laden snacks. They’re perfect for anyone trying to eat lighter or include more vegetables in their diet.
2. Easy to Prepare
You don’t need fancy tools or culinary expertise. If you can slice a zucchini and mix a few ingredients, you’re ready to go. Everything comes together in under 10 minutes, and the oven does the rest of the work.
3. Kid-Friendly
Picky eaters and kids who are skeptical of green vegetables will love these sticks. They’re crunchy, dippable, and fun to eat—making them an excellent gateway into veggie-friendly meals.
4. Versatile
Serve them as a starter, a side for burgers or sandwiches, or enjoy them on their own with a refreshing dip. They also make a great addition to picnic spreads or summer barbecues.
The Ingredients for Crispy Zucchini Sticks
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 500 g zucchini, cut into sticks
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons breadcrumbs (use panko for extra crunch)
- 2 tablespoons corn flour (also known as cornstarch; it helps crisp things up)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon paprika powder
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
Optional but recommended:
- Fresh lemon juice for serving
- A dipping sauce like yogurt tahini, garlic aioli, or marinara
Tips for Perfect Zucchini Sticks
1. Don’t Overcrowd the Pan
Crispy zucchini requires space to breathe. If you pile them on top of each other, they’ll steam and go soggy instead of crisping up.
2. Use Panko Breadcrumbs for Extra Crunch
While regular breadcrumbs work well, panko (Japanese-style breadcrumbs) are larger and lighter, which makes the sticks even crunchier.
3. Serve Immediately
Zucchini sticks are best served fresh from the oven while the coating is still crispy. If you’re serving for a crowd, consider baking them in batches and reheating briefly before serving.
Dipping Sauce Ideas
No crispy snack is complete without a good dip. Here are some tasty options:
- Yogurt Tahini Dip: Mix Vegan Greek yogurt, tahini, lemon juice, and garlic for a creamy, tangy sauce.
- Marinara Sauce: A classic Italian pairing that brings warmth and richness.
- Garlic Aioli: Combine vegan mayonnaise, minced garlic, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt.
- Spicy Sriracha Mayo: For a kick, mix vegan mayonnaise with sriracha or your favorite hot sauce.
Make It Your Own: Flavor Variations
Feel free to get creative with this base recipe. Here are some flavor twists to try:
- Italian-Style: Add dried oregano, basil, and Parmesan to the breadcrumb mix.
- Smoky Chipotle: Use smoked paprika and a pinch of chipotle powder for a smoky, spicy bite.
- Herby Crunch: Mix in dried thyme, rosemary, or dill for an herby twist.
- Indian-Inspired: Add curry powder or garam masala for a warmly spiced snack.
Frequently Asked Questions: Crispy Zucchini Sticks
Can I use yellow squash instead of zucchini?
Absolutely. Yellow squash has a similar texture and taste and works just as well in this recipe.
Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes! Just use gluten-free breadcrumbs and double-check that your corn flour is certified gluten-free.
Can I make these Crispy Zucchini Sticks in an air fryer?
Definitely. Preheat your air fryer to 200°C (390°F) and cook the zucchini sticks in a single layer for about 12–15 minutes, shaking halfway through.
Can I freeze these Crispy Zucchini Sticks?
Freezing is not recommended. Zucchini has a high water content, which can result in a mushy texture when thawed and reheated.
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Crispy Zucchini Sticks
Ingredients
- 500 g (1.1 lb) zucchini cut into sticks
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp panko bread crumbs
- 2 tbsp corn flour
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp paprika powder
- ½ tsp garlic powder
For serving:
- lemon wedges to squeeze
- favorite sauce e.g. tahini, yogurt, marinara, garlic aioli
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 200°C (390°F). Line a baking tray with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, combine olive oil, breadcrumbs, corn flour, salt, paprika, and garlic powder.
- Add zucchini sticks and toss well to coat.
- Spread in a single layer on the prepared tray.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crispy.
- Serve hot with a squeeze of lemon juice and your favorite dip.
