Crispy Vegan Breaded Zucchini Sticks
Crispy Vegan Breaded Zucchini Sticks
The Perfect Golden, Crunchy Snack (With a Dipping Sauce You’ll Want to Put on Everything!)
If you’re craving something crispy, savory, and ridiculously easy, these Vegan Breaded Zucchini Sticks are about to become your new go-to snack. They’re crunchy on the outside, tender on the inside, and made with simple, wholesome ingredients.
Whether you’re prepping snacks for movie night, a party, or just need a healthier alternative to fries — this recipe delivers BIG flavor with minimal effort.
These beauties come out golden, herby, and perfect for dipping into vegan ranch, garlic aioli, marinara, or your favorite sauce.
Let’s get cooking! 👇
🥒✨ Ingredients
For the Zucchini Sticks:
- 2 medium zucchinis, cut into sticks
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko recommended for maximum crispiness)
- ½ cup nutritional yeast (for cheesy flavor)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt & pepper to taste
Wet Coating:
- ½ cup plant-based milk
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour)
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- Pinch of salt
Optional Dips:
- Vegan ranch
- Garlic dill dip
- Marinara
- Spicy mayo
👩🍳 Instructions
1. Prep the zucchini
Wash and slice the zucchinis into fry-shaped sticks. Pat dry with a towel — dry zucchini = crispier coating.
2. Mix your wet batter
In a bowl, whisk together plant milk, flour, cornstarch, and salt until smooth.
3. Prepare the breadcrumb mix
In another bowl, combine breadcrumbs, nutritional yeast, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
4. Coat the zucchini
Dip each zucchini stick into the wet batter → shake off excess → roll in the breadcrumb mixture until fully coated.
5. Air fry or bake
Air Fryer:
- 390°F (200°C) for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway.
Oven:
- Arrange on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Bake at 425°F (220°C) for 18–22 minutes until golden brown.
6. Serve hot
Enjoy immediately with your favorite dip. Warning: they disappear fast!
🌱 Tips for Extra Crispiness
- Don’t overcrowd the air fryer or baking tray — space = crisp!
- Use panko breadcrumbs for the best crunch.
- Add chili flakes if you want a spicy kick.
- Want a parmesan vibe? Increase the nutritional yeast.
✨ Perfect For
✔ Party appetizers
✔ After-school snacks
✔ Healthy movie-night munching
✔ Meal prep (they reheat GREAT in the air fryer!)
These Vegan Breaded Zucchini Sticks are simple, crunchy, and packed with flavor — proof that plant-based snacking can be just as delicious as the classic version. 🌿💛
