Ingredients:

  • 3 medium Zucchini (approx. 600g), sliced into 1/2-inch thick batons
  • 0.5 tsp sea salt
  • 0.5 cup Panko breadcrumbs
  • 0.5 cup freshly grated Parmigiano Reggiano
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp dried Italian herb seasoning
  • 0.25 tsp smoked paprika
  • 2 large egg whites
  • 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 tsp olive oil spray

Instructions:

  1. Prep the Squash: Slice 3 medium zucchini into 1/2 inch thick batons, ensuring they are roughly 3 to 4 inches long.
  2. The Moisture Purge: Arrange the sticks on paper towels, sprinkle with 0.5 tsp sea salt, and let sit for 10 minutes. Note: This is the most important step for preventing sogginess.
  3. Dry Aggressively: Use fresh paper towels to press down on the zucchini, soaking up every visible bead of water until they feel tacky.
  4. Heat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and position your rack in the upper third of the oven for better browning.
  5. Create the Binder: Whisk 2 egg whites and 1 tbsp Dijon mustard in a shallow bowl until frothy and no long strings of egg remain.
  6. Mix the Coating: In another shallow dish, combine 0.5 cup Panko, 0.5 cup Parmesan, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and smoked paprika.
  7. The Double Hand Method: Use one hand for the wet egg dip and the other hand for the dry crumb press to keep your fingers from getting breaded.
  8. Press and Coat: Dip the baton into the egg, let the excess drip, then press it firmly into the crumbs until completely encrusted.
  9. Arrange and Spray: Place on the wire rack and give a light coating of 1 tsp olive oil spray to help the Panko toast.
  10. Bake to Finish: Roast for 12–15 minutes until the exterior is deeply golden brown and crackling. While these are baking, you can whip up a quick dipping sauce. I find that a [Garlic Parmesan sauce](https://fordailyrecipes.com/recipes/garlic-parmesan-sauce-recipe/) complements the earthy zucchini perfectly without overpowering it. If you are looking for a full meal plan, these sticks also make a fantastic side to [cheesy mashed potatoes](https://fordailyrecipes.com/recipes/cheesy-mashed-potatoes/) for a comforting, vegetable heavy dinner. Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe for 4 Servings — Master Parmesan Crusted Chicken with our step-by-step guide, perfect for a co...Easy Parmesan Bread Bites Recipe: 27 Minute Garlic Bites — Master this easy parmesan bread bites recipe with our step-by-step guide. Inc...Chicken Parmesan Casserole with Pasta in 45 Minutes — Master the Chicken Parmesan Casserole with our heritage recipe. Includes a st... $img_2$