Oven-Baked Zucchini Fries

If you are like me, you struggle between eating your favorite foods and maintaining your ideal weight, and the struggle seems to be endless. Trying to stick to my healthy eating habits, I was hunting for healthy snack ideas, when I stumbled upon this lovely Zucchini Fries recipe in Kraft Recipes magazine. I am not a fan of Zucchini, but this looked interesting, and I thought I’ll give it a try. And it is indeed something you should try too! 

Zucchini has a hard texture, which works to its advantage here – the fries do not become soft and soggy, they maintain a firm shell, while the coating on the top gives it a crispy covering. Cheese gives it a warm gooey coating, and seasoning adds an element of flavor. Quick, easy, healthy and delicious – you don’t find such foods easily, so hang on to this recipe!

Oven-Baked Zucchini Fries
makes approximately 8 servings Ingredients
3 zucchini (1 lb.)
1/4 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese
1 packet Shake & Bake Coating Mix
1 small egg
Method
Heat oven to 450ºF.
Trim the zucchini - cut crosswise in half, then cut each piece into 1/4-inch sticks. Add cheese to coating mix in shaker bag; shake gently to combine.
Whisk egg in medium bowl. Add zucchini; toss to coat. Use tongs to place 1/4 of the zucchini in shaker bag; close bag and shake to evenly coat. Spread onto baking sheet sprayed with cooking spray. Repeat with remaining zucchini.
Bake for 12 to 13 min. or until golden brown, turning the baking tray 180 degrees after 7 min to facilitate even baking. Meanwhile, mix remaining ingredients.
Remove the baked fries from the oven, and serve them with your favorite dipping sauce!

This is a great way to enjoy some healthy greens in a fun and tasty way. It also serves to be a great snack for kids – they’ll love the taste, and you’ll love feeding them something healthy! Until next time, keep it clean (and healthy)! :)