Description
Crispy Broccoli Fries deliver a healthy twist on classic comfort food, turning nutritious green florets into a crowd-pleasing snack. Crunchy edges and golden-green goodness make this simple recipe a delightful way to enjoy vegetables that will have everyone reaching for more.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 1/2 pound (0.5 lb) broccoli stems
- 1/2 cup finely shredded parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
Seasonings:
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more for seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
Cooking Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
Dipping Sauce:
- Ranch or Caesar dressing
Instructions
- Prepare the oven or air fryer to the optimal temperature. For conventional oven, set to 425F with the rack positioned in the center. For air fryer, preheat to 400F.
- Transform broccoli stems by removing the tough outer layer using a vegetable peeler or sharp knife. Slice stems lengthwise into thin strips, approximately 1/8 to 1/4 inch thick. Cut longer stems in half crosswise if exceeding 6 inches.
- Create a crispy coating mixture by combining Parmesan, panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, salt, and paprika in a medium bowl. Divide the mixture into two separate shallow bowls, reserving one-third for initial coating. Pour olive oil into a separate shallow bowl.
- Coat the broccoli stems by first dipping them in olive oil, then thoroughly dredging in the panko mixture. Press gently to ensure even adherence. Replenish the panko mixture as needed, using the reserved portion.
- For oven method, arrange breaded broccoli on a metal baking sheet. Roast for 10-12 minutes, rotating halfway through cooking time, until achieving a golden and crispy exterior.
- For air fryer method, arrange broccoli fries in a single layer within the basket. Cook for approximately 5 minutes until crisp and tender.
- Transfer the finished broccoli fries to a serving platter. Sprinkle with additional salt if desired. Accompany with ranch or Caesar dressing for dipping, enhancing the overall flavor experience.
Notes
- Trim broccoli stems carefully to ensure even, crispy coating that maximizes texture and minimizes waste.
- Use fresh Parmesan cheese for better flavor and crisp breading, grating it yourself for maximum taste intensity.
- Pat broccoli stems completely dry before coating to help breading adhere perfectly and prevent soggy results.
- Experiment with alternative breadcrumb options like gluten-free panko or almond flour for dietary adaptations.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes (oven) or 5 minutes (air fryer)
- Category: Snacks, Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2
- Calories: 370 kcal
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 1100 mg
- Fat: 25 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 19 g
- Fiber: 5 g
- Protein: 14 g
- Cholesterol: 15 mg