• Prepare the zucchini by washing and patting dry 3–4 medium zucchini using paper towels to remove any excess moisture. Slice into ⅓-inch thick zucchini rounds or sticks.
• In a shallow bowl, combine 2 cups all-purpose flour with salt and black pepper to taste.
• In a second bowl, beat 2 eggs and mix with 2 cups milk to create an egg wash.
• In a third bowl, place 3 cups of panko breadcrumbs or cornflake crumbs. Add an optional ½ teaspoon of onion powder or Italian breadcrumbs for extra flavor.
• Fill a deep fryer or frying pan with vegetable oil, canola oil, or olive oil—just enough oil to fully submerge the zucchini. Heat to medium-high heat (follow your fryer’s manual if applicable). The hot oil should sizzle when a breadcrumb is dropped in.
• Bread the zucchini by working in small batches and coating each piece in the flour mixture. Then, dip it into the egg batter and finally coat it with breadcrumbs, pressing lightly to adhere.
• Fry the zucchini by carefully lowering breaded zucchini into the hot oil using a slotted spoon or tongs. Fry for 2–4 minutes, or until crispy and golden brown.
• Remove the zucchini from the oil and place on a paper towel-lined plate or wire rack to drain. While still hot, sprinkle with finely shredded Parmesan cheese and a pinch of salt.
• Enjoy immediately with ranch dressing, marinara sauce, or a squeeze of lemon.

Fried Zucchini in the Air Fryer

• Wash 3–4 medium zucchini and pat dry thoroughly with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Slice into ⅓-inch thick zucchini rounds or sticks.
• In a shallow bowl, stir together 2 cups all-purpose flour, salt, and black pepper to taste.
• In a second bowl, beat 2 eggs and mix with 2 cups of milk to form an egg wash.
• In a third bowl, place 3 cups of panko breadcrumbs or cornflake crumbs, and add ½ teaspoon of onion powder or a scoop of Italian breadcrumbs if desired for extra flavor.
• Working in small batches, dredge each piece of zucchini in the flour mixture, dip into the egg batter, and then coat in the breadcrumbs, pressing lightly to help it stick.
• Preheat your air fryer to 400°F. Lightly spray the basket with olive oil or line it with parchment paper. Arrange the breaded zucchini in a single layer, leaving space between each for even cooking.
• Air fry for 8–10 minutes, flipping the zucchini halfway through. Lightly spray the tops with olive oil midway for a crispier finish. When done, the zucchini should be crispy and golden brown.
• Transfer to a wire rack or paper towel-lined plate. While hot, sprinkle with finely shredded Parmesan cheese and a pinch of salt.