Baked Zucchini Fries

Ever had fried zucchini sticks? There's a great little burger joint in Long Beach, California named Paul's. It's a family favorite! You walk up to the window to order and then find a seat under the green umbrellas to enjoy your burger - only outside seating all year - love California! One of the best things on the menu (in my opinion) is the fried zucchini... shaped like french fries, sticks of zucchini dipped in batter, and fried until crispy & golden. They serve them with delicious ranch dressing. This recipe is way more healthy because it's baked, but these zucchini fries are delicious.

Baked Zucchini Fries
2 zucchini, cut into sticks
1/4 cup flour (you can use cornstarch or gluten-free all purpose flour if desired)
2 eggs, lightly beaten
2 cups panko bread crumbs
3 tablespoons paprika
1 teaspoon garlic powder
salt & pepper to taste

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Preheat your oven to 425 degrees.

Place flour in a large plastic ziplock bag. In a shallow bowl, lightly beat the eggs. In a second shallow bowl, mix the bread crumbs, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

Toss the cut zucchini into the bag, seal, and shake to coat the zucchini with the flour. Dip each floured zucchini stick into the egg, then into the bread crumb mixture. You may need to press some of the mixture onto toe zucchini to make it stick. Carefully place breaded zucchini onto prepared baking sheet.

Bake for 40 to 45 minutes or until golden brown. Server with your favorite ranch dressing or dip.

Enjoy!