Zucchini Fries Ranch from PDQ feature crispy, golden-battered zucchini sticks served with a creamy, tangy ranch dipping sauce, offering a flavorful and crunchy appetizer perfect for sharing.
Equipments
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Tongs
- Baking sheet or tray
- Parchment paper (optional)
- Deep fryer or large pot (for frying)
- Slotted spoon or spider strainer
- Plate with paper towels
- Serving platter
- Small dipping bowls
Ingredients
- For Zucchini Fries:
- 2 medium zucchini
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
- For Ranch Dipping Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup buttermilk
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
Using fresh zucchini is crucial to achieve the ideal crispy texture when making zucchini fries, as overly ripe zucchinis can become soggy during frying. Panko breadcrumbs combined with grated Parmesan cheese provide a crunchy and flavorful coating, enhancing the overall taste and texture. Ensure your vegetable oil is heated to the correct temperature (around 350degF) to avoid greasy fries and maintain a golden crispiness. For the ranch dipping sauce, fresh herbs like dill, parsley, and chives intensify the creamy and tangy flavor, complementing the crunchy zucchini perfectly. You'll be able to replicate the delightful Zucchini Fries Ranch from PDQ, delivering a restaurant-quality appetizer right at home.
Instructions
- Instructions:
- Wash and dry zucchini.
- Cut zucchini into fry-shaped sticks.
- Set up three mixing bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with a mix of panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- Dredge each zucchini stick in flour, then dip in egg, then coat with breadcrumb mixture.
- Preheat vegetable oil in deep fryer or large pot to 350°F (175°C).
- Line a plate with paper towels.
- Fry zucchini sticks in batches until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per batch.
- Use slotted spoon or spider strainer to remove fries; drain on paper towels.
- (Optional) To bake: place coated zucchini on parchment-lined baking sheet; bake at 425°F (220°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway.
- For ranch: In a mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, buttermilk, dill, parsley, chives, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and lemon juice.
- Transfer zucchini fries to serving platter.
- Pour ranch dipping sauce into small dipping bowls.
- Serve fries hot with ranch for dipping.
Substitution
Zucchini Fries Ranch from PDQ copycat menu delivers crispy, golden-battered zucchini sticks paired with a smooth, tangy ranch dipping sauce that complements their crunch. If fresh zucchini is out of season or unavailable, yellow squash makes an excellent substitute due to its similar texture and mild flavor. Using Panko breadcrumbs is crucial for extra crispiness, but plain breadcrumbs can be used in a pinch, though the fries may be less crunchy. When frying, maintain the oil temperature between 350degF and 375degF to prevent soggy fries and ensure even browning. Be cautious not to overcrowd the frying vessel to keep the zucchini sticks crisp and delicious.
Tips
Make sure to pat zucchini sticks dry thoroughly before coating to ensure the batter sticks well and fries up crispy. Monitor oil temperature closely at 350degF (175degC) to avoid soggy fries or burnt coating; use a thermometer if possible. Fry in small batches to maintain oil temperature and even cooking; overcrowding lowers heat and results in greasy fries. Your ranch sauce will taste best chilled; mix ingredients ahead of time to let flavors meld before serving.
Nutritions
Zucchini Fries Ranch from PDQ provide a nutrient-rich snack, combining the fiber and vitamins of zucchini with the protein and fats from eggs and Parmesan cheese in the coating. The panko breadcrumbs contribute to the crispy texture while keeping calorie content moderate compared to heavier batters. Your intake of healthy herbs like dill, parsley, and chives in the ranch sauce adds beneficial antioxidants and flavor without excess sodium. When prepared with vegetable oil and served with a creamy ranch dip, these fries balance indulgence and nutrition effectively.
Storage
Store leftover zucchini fries in an airtight container lined with paper towels to absorb moisture, and keep them in the refrigerator for up to 2 days to maintain crispness. Refrigerate the ranch dipping sauce separately in a covered container for up to 3 days to preserve freshness and flavor. When reheating, use an oven or air fryer at 375degF (190degC) for 5-7 minutes to restore the fries' crunch without compromising your serving quality.
Variation or Alternatives
You can swap out the panko breadcrumbs for crushed cornflakes or almond meal to add a different texture and flavor to your zucchini fries. Try baking the fries for a healthier option by arranging them on a parchment-lined tray and cooking at 425degF (220degC) until crispy. Incorporate a spicy kick by adding cayenne pepper or smoked paprika to the breadcrumb mixture. For ranch, mix in a bit of Greek yogurt or swap fresh herbs with dried ones if you don't have fresh on hand.
Allergies
Your Zucchini Fries Ranch from PDQ may pose allergy risks due to several common allergens present in the ingredients. The eggs used in the batter and the dairy components in the ranch dipping sauce, such as mayonnaise, sour cream, buttermilk, and Parmesan cheese, can trigger reactions in individuals with egg or dairy allergies. Additionally, the all-purpose flour contains gluten, which may be problematic for those with gluten intolerance or celiac disease.
Why this recipe?
Zucchini Fries Ranch from PDQ restaurant appeals to people due to its crispy texture, flavorful seasoning, and the cool, creamy ranch dip that perfectly complements the fries. The menu item combines the freshness of zucchini with a satisfying crunch, offering a healthier alternative to traditional fries without sacrificing taste. Your taste buds will enjoy the balance of savory and tangy flavors, making it a memorable snack or side dish. Trying to make a copycat version at home is worth it for the opportunity to customize seasoning and enjoy a homemade, guilt-free indulgence.