Begin by washing your zucchini thoroughly. Once clean, trim the ends off and slice them into sticks or rounds based on your preference. Aim for uniform sizes so they cook evenly. No one wants a half-cooked fry!

In three separate bowls, prepare your breading station:

In the first bowl, combine flour with a pinch of salt.

In the second bowl, whisk the eggs with a tablespoon of water.

In the third bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, smoked paprika, and Italian herbs.

This setup will streamline your coating process and keep things tidy.

Take each zucchini piece and first dredge it in the flour, shaking off the excess. Next, dip it in the egg wash, then finally coat it with the panko mixture. Don’t rush—thoroughly coating each piece ensures an amazing crunch for the fry.

Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (205°C). This step is crucial for achieving that perfect golden brown finish.

Arrange the breaded zucchini in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Make sure not to overcrowd them; otherwise, they’ll steam instead of fry. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to do this in batches. Cook for about 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through. Keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking!

Once they are golden and crispy, remove them from the air fryer. Let them cool slightly on a rack (if you have one, otherwise a plate works fine). Serve with your favorite dipping sauce, and enjoy the delightful crunch of your homemade zucchini fries!