Appetizers · Part 3 of 3: Tips & recipe card

Crispy Accordion Zucchini Fries with Herb Yogurt Dip Tips, FAQ & printable recipe

Name: Crispy Accordion Zucchini Fries with Herb Yogurt Dip
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 14 min
Total time: 29 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 medium zucchinis; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; 1/2 tsp garlic powder; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/2 cup Greek yogurt; 1 tbsp lemon juice; 2 tbsp fresh dill, chopped; 2 tbsp fresh mint, chopped

By Clara Weller · Oct 23, 2026

Golden accordion zucchini fries on a platter with a bowl of herb yogurt dip

Prep: 15 min
Cook: 14 min
Total: 29 min
Serves: 4

Tips for success

For the crispiest results, make sure the zucchini is as dry as possible before cutting. Moisture is the enemy of crispiness, so pat the zucchini dry with a paper towel after washing.

Also, avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket—cook in a single layer with space between each fry so the hot air can circulate and crisp every surface.

If you want to make these ahead, cut and season the zucchini a few hours in advance, but air fry just before serving. The dip can be made up to two days ahead and stored in the refrigerator. Leftover fries can be reheated in the air fryer at 400°F (200°C) for 3-4 minutes to restore their crunch.

Variations

Spicy Chipotle Dip: Add 1 teaspoon of chipotle hot sauce and a pinch of smoked paprika to the yogurt dip for a smoky, spicy kick. Adjust the heat to your liking.
Everything Bagel Seasoning: Swap the Italian seasoning for 1 tablespoon of everything bagel seasoning, and reduce the salt to 1/4 teaspoon. The sesame and garlic flavors pair beautifully with the Parmesan.
Lemon Herb Twist: Add 1 teaspoon of lemon zest to the seasoning mixture, and use fresh parsley instead of dill in the dip. The extra citrus brightens the dish.
Cheesy Panko Crust: Mix 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs with the Parmesan and seasonings, and press onto the zucchini before air frying. This adds an extra-crunchy coating.

Storage and make-ahead

Fridge: Store leftover fries in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Freeze cooked zucchini fries in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months.
Reheat: Reheat leftover fries in the air fryer at 400°F (200°C) for 3-4 minutes, or in a 425°F (220°C) oven for 5-7 minutes. Avoid microwaving, as it makes them soggy.

Store leftover zucchini fries in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They will lose their crispness, so reheat in the air fryer or oven to revive them. The herb yogurt dip can be stored separately in a covered container for up to 3 days.

The herb yogurt dip can be prepared up to 2 days in advance and kept refrigerated. The zucchini can be cut and seasoned up to 4 hours ahead, but wait to air fry until just before serving for the best texture.

If preparing ahead, keep the seasoned zucchini in the refrigerator and increase air fry time by 1-2 minutes.

Serving ideas

Serve these accordion zucchini fries as a fun appetizer at parties, game-day gatherings, or as a side dish to grilled meats or burgers.

They are best enjoyed immediately while still hot and crispy. Arrange them on a platter with the dip in the center for easy dunking, and watch them disappear quickly.

For a complete snack board, pair them with other crispy vegetables like air-fried onion rings or roasted chickpeas.

The cool, herby yogurt dip also works well with raw veggies or as a sauce for grilled chicken. If there are leftovers, they make a great addition to salads or grain bowls the next day.

Frequently asked questions

Can these zucchini fries be made in a regular oven?

Yes, place the seasoned zucchini on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake at 425°F (220°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crisp. The texture may be slightly less crunchy than air-fried, but still delicious.

Why do the zucchini fries come out soggy?

Sogginess usually happens if the zucchini is too wet or the basket is overcrowded. Pat the zucchini dry before cutting, and air fry in a single layer with space between each piece. Also, make sure the air fryer is fully preheated.

Can the herb yogurt dip be made dairy-free?

Yes, substitute the Greek yogurt with a plain dairy-free yogurt, such as coconut or almond-based. The texture may be slightly thinner, but the flavor will still be delicious. Keep in mind that the dip will no longer be dairy-free if you use regular Parmesan.

How do you prevent the zucchini from breaking when cutting?

Use two chopsticks as guides on either side of the zucchini. Make sure the knife is sharp and cut straight down until it touches the chopsticks. Avoid applying too much pressure, and let the knife do the work.

Can these be prepared ahead of time for a party?

Yes, you can cut and season the zucchini up to 4 hours ahead and keep them in the refrigerator. Air fry just before serving to maintain crispness. The dip can be made 2 days in advance.

Recipe card

Crispy Accordion Zucchini Fries with Herb Yogurt Dip

Prep 15 minCook 14 minTotal 29 minServes 4

Ingredients

3 medium zucchinis
2 tbsp olive oil
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tsp Italian seasoning
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 cup Greek yogurt
1 tbsp lemon juice
2 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
2 tbsp fresh mint, chopped

Instructions

Place one zucchini between two chopsticks on a cutting board. Using a sharp knife, make straight vertical cuts across the zucchini, about 1/4 inch apart, stopping when the knife touches the chopsticks. Flip the zucchini over and make diagonal cuts at a 45-degree angle, again stopping at the chopsticks. Repeat with the remaining zucchinis.
Brush the accordion-cut zucchini with olive oil on all sides, making sure to get into the cuts. In a small bowl, mix the grated Parmesan, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and salt. Sprinkle the seasoning mixture evenly over the zucchini, pressing gently between the slices.
Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Place the seasoned zucchini in the air fryer basket in a single layer, leaving space between each. Air fry for 14 minutes, turning halfway through, until the edges are deep golden brown and crispy.
In a small bowl, stir together the Greek yogurt, lemon juice, chopped fresh dill, and chopped fresh mint until well combined.
Transfer the hot, crispy zucchini fries to a serving platter. Serve immediately with the herb yogurt dip on the side for dunking.

Contains: milk

Estimated nutrition per serving

Calories: 220
Protein: 12 g
Carbohydrates: 15 g
Fat: 13 g

Automatic estimate from the ingredient list, not laboratory-verified.

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This recipe is based on a short cooking video and is published under the pen name Clara Weller. It was checked before publication, but errors can slip through. Nutrition, when shown, is an estimate. Read more in our editorial policy and on our food safety page.