Global
Crispy Baked Courgette Fries
Courgette sticks in a crunchy herb-and-parmesan crust, baked golden: a moreish veg-packed alternative to fries.
~45 mintotal
Ingredients
- 3 courgettes, cut into sticks
- 1 egg, beaten
- ½ cup wholemeal breadcrumbs
- ¼ cup grated parmesan
- 1 tsp oregano
- Salt & pepper
- Olive oil spray
Cooking Steps
Preheat the oven to 220°C (425°F).
Dip the courgette sticks in egg, then in the breadcrumbs mixed with parmesan and oregano.
Lay on a lined tray and mist with olive oil.
Bake 20–25 minutes, turning once, until golden and crisp.
Serve with a yogurt or tomato dip.
Optional Enhancements
- Gluten-free crumbs or almond flour
- Air-fry at 200°C for 12 minutes
- Add chilli to the crumb
Plant & Growing Tips
Courgettes
- Sow seeds directly into well-drained, fertile soil in full sun after all danger of frost has passed.
- Give plants plenty of room to spread, or grow in large containers (at least 15-gallon).
- Water deeply and consistently, especially during flowering and fruiting.
Oregano
- Plant in full sun and well-drained soil; oregano thrives in drier conditions and can be grown from seed, cuttings, or small plants.
- It's an excellent herb for containers, especially in colder climates where it can be brought indoors.
- Water sparingly once established, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
Natural Pest Control
- Inspect courgette stems regularly for holes and frass from squash vine borers, or use row covers to protect young plants.
- Spray oregano with insecticidal soap or neem oil if spider mites appear.
- Use yellow sticky traps near courgette plants to monitor and catch cucumber beetles.
Harvest
Courgettes
- Pick courgettes when they are young and tender, typically 6-8 inches long, before seeds fully develop; regular harvesting encourages more production.
Oregano
- Snip off sprigs and leaves as needed, pruning regularly to encourage bushier growth and prevent flowering for best flavor.
Storing & Freezing
Best fresh.
