Crispy Accordion Zucchini Fries with Parmesan Herb Aioli Tips, FAQ & printable recipe

Tips for success

For the crispiest fries, don’t skip the step of brushing olive oil into the slits. This ensures every surface gets crispy. Also, pat the zucchinis dry with a paper towel before cutting to remove excess moisture.

If you have time, salt the cut zucchinis and let them sit for 10 minutes, then pat dry before seasoning — this draws out water and helps them crisp even more.

To keep the fries crispy, serve them immediately. If you need to keep them warm, place them on a wire rack in a low oven (200°F / 95°C) for up to 15 minutes.

The aioli can be made up to 2 days ahead and stored in the refrigerator. For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes to the aioli.

Variations

• Spicy Sriracha Aioli: Replace the lemon juice with 1 tablespoon sriracha and omit the basil. Add a pinch of cayenne for extra heat. This version pairs well with the crispy zucchini for a spicy kick.
• Lemon Herb Zucchini Fries: Add the zest of one lemon to the parmesan mixture and use fresh thyme instead of Italian seasoning. Serve with a lemon-dill aioli made by adding extra lemon zest to the herb aioli.
• Panko-Crusted Accordion Fries: After brushing with olive oil, press the zucchinis into a mixture of panko breadcrumbs and parmesan for an extra crunchy coating. Adjust cooking time as needed, checking for golden brown.
• Baked Accordion Zucchini Fries: Instead of an air fryer, bake on a wire rack over a baking sheet at 425°F (220°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway. This method still yields crispy fries with a slightly different texture.

Storage and make-ahead

Fridge

Store leftover fries in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in air fryer at 400°F (200°C) for 3-4 minutes.

Freezer

Not recommended for freezing, as the texture will become soggy.

Reheat

Reheat in an air fryer at 400°F (200°C) for 3-4 minutes until hot and crispy.

Leftover accordion zucchini fries are best eaten the same day, as they lose their crispness in the refrigerator. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.

To reheat, place them back in the air fryer at 400°F (200°C) for 3-4 minutes until hot and crispy. The aioli can be stored separately in the fridge for up to 3 days.

You can cut and season the zucchinis up to 2 hours ahead, keeping them in the refrigerator until ready to air fry. The aioli can be made up to 2 days ahead. If preparing in advance, wait to season until just before cooking to prevent sogginess.

Serving ideas

Serve these accordion zucchini fries as an appetizer with the parmesan herb aioli on the side for dipping.

They’re perfect for parties, game days, or as a fun side dish for burgers or sandwiches. The stretchy accordion shape makes them a conversation starter, and they’re best enjoyed hot and crispy.

For a complete meal, pair them with a simple green salad or grilled chicken. They also work well as a vegetarian main when served with a hearty grain salad. The cool aioli adds a creamy, herby finish that complements the crispy zucchini beautifully. Garnish with extra fresh herbs if desired.

Frequently asked questions

Recipe card

Crispy Accordion Zucchini Fries with Parmesan Herb Aioli

Prep 15 minCook 14 minTotal 29 minServes 4

Ingredients

• 3 medium zucchinis
• 2 chopsticks (as slicing guides)
• 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 mayonnaise
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 2 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
• 2 tbsp fresh basil, chopped

Instructions

1. 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.
2. 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.
3. 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.
4. 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.
5. 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.

Contains: eggs, milk

Estimated nutrition per serving

Calories

280

Protein

6 g

Carbohydrates

10 g

Fat

24 g

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