Crispy Accordion Zucchini Fries with Parmesan Herb Aioli Step-by-step instructions

Before you start

Before you start, make sure your air fryer is clean and ready. Gather all your ingredients and equipment. If you’re making the aioli ahead, do that first and refrigerate it.

Trim the zucchinis and have your chopsticks and knife ready. Set up a small bowl for the parmesan mixture. The prep is quick, so have everything within reach. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) so it’s ready when you are.

Instructions

Cut and Season

1. 1Cut the Accordion Zucchini
   Trim the ends from the zucchinis. Place one zucchini between two chopsticks on a cutting board. Make straight vertical cuts across the zucchini, slicing down until the knife touches the chopsticks, leaving the bottom intact. Flip the zucchini and make diagonal cuts at a 45-degree angle, again stopping at the chopsticks. Repeat with the remaining zucchinis. Gently stretch each zucchini to open the accordion slits.
   Look for The zucchini should stretch open like a concertina without breaking apart.
   Tip Use even pressure and a sharp knife for clean cuts. The chopsticks prevent cutting all the way through.
2. 2Season the Zucchini
   Brush the accordion-cut zucchinis all over with olive oil, making sure to get into the slits. In a small bowl, mix the grated parmesan, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and salt. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the zucchinis, working it between the slices with your fingers or a spoon.
   Look for The seasoning should cling to the zucchini, coating every nook and cranny.
   Tip Use your hands to gently rub the seasoning into the slits for even coverage.

After cutting, the zucchini should stretch open like a concertina without breaking. The seasoning should coat every surface, including the slits.

The zucchinis should look well-oiled and generously dusted with the parmesan mixture. If any pieces break, you can still cook them — they’ll just be smaller.

Air Fry

3. 3Air Fry the Zucchini
   Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Place the seasoned accordion zucchinis in the air fryer basket in a single layer, leaving space between each for air circulation. Air fry for 14 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the edges are golden brown and crispy.
   Look for The edges should be golden brown, crackling, and blistered.
   Tip Do not overcrowd the basket; cook in batches if necessary.

Halfway through, the zucchini should be starting to brown and crisp at the edges. The kitchen will smell of garlic and herbs. By the end, the fries should be golden brown, blistered, and crackling. The parmesan should be melted and browned in spots.

Make Aioli and Serve

4. 4Make the Herb Aioli
   While the zucchini fries cook, make the aioli. In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, minced garlic, lemon juice, chopped dill, and chopped basil. Stir until smooth. Refrigerate until ready to serve.
   Look for The aioli should be creamy and well combined, with flecks of herbs.
   Tip For a smoother aioli, use a blender or food processor. Adjust lemon juice to taste.
5. 5Serve and Dip
   Remove the crispy accordion zucchini fries from the air fryer and let them cool for 2 minutes. Serve warm with the parmesan herb aioli on the side for dipping. Enjoy the satisfying crunch.
   Look for The fries should be shatteringly crisp and golden, with steam rising.
   Tip For the best texture, serve immediately. The aioli can be made ahead and refrigerated.

The aioli should be smooth, creamy, and well blended, with visible flecks of herbs. The fries should be hot, crispy, and ready to serve. The aioli should be cold, providing a nice contrast. Serve immediately to enjoy the crunch.

Common mistakes

One common mistake is cutting too deeply, which causes the zucchini to fall apart. Use chopsticks as guides and press the knife gently. Another mistake is overcrowding the air fryer basket, which traps steam and prevents crisping.

Cook in batches if needed. Also, be generous with the olive oil and seasoning, as it helps the parmesan stick and promotes browning. Finally, don’t skip flipping halfway through — it ensures even cooking.

How to tell it’s done

The accordion zucchini fries are done when the edges are deep golden brown and crispy, and the zucchini is tender when pierced with a fork. The exterior should be shatteringly crisp, and the inside should be soft but not mushy.

If you like them extra crispy, air fry for an additional 2-3 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning. The aioli should be thick and creamy, with a bright, herby flavor.