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Air fryer veggie fries with crispy golden vegetable sticks, lightly seasoned coating, caramelized edges, fresh parsley garnish, and a lemon wedge, served as a colorful and healthy side dish.
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Air Fryer Veggie Fries – Crispy, Colorful, and Easy

Prep Time10 minutes
Cook Time10 minutes
Total Time20 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients

  • 2 medium carrots peeled and cut into 1/4-inch sticks
  • 1 medium zucchini cut into 1/2-inch sticks (pat dry if watery)
  • 1 small sweet potato peeled and cut into 1/4-inch sticks
  • 1 red bell pepper seeded and cut into thick strips
  • 1 small parsnip or rutabaga optional, peeled and cut into 1/4-inch sticks
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or avocado oil
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt divided
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika or regular paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch or arrowroot optional, for extra crispness
  • Fresh parsley or chives chopped (optional, for garnish)
  • Lemon wedges optional, for serving

Instructions

  • Preheat the air fryer: Set it to 390°F (200°C) for 3–5 minutes. A hot basket helps the fries crisp faster.
  • Cut the veggies evenly: Aim for similar thickness so everything cooks at the same rate.
  • Keep sticks around 1/4-inch for roots and 1/2-inch for softer veggies like zucchini and peppers.
  • Dry the veggies: Pat with paper towels, especially zucchini and peppers. Dry surfaces = better browning.
  • Season: In a large bowl, toss veggies with oil, 1 teaspoon salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and onion powder. If using cornstarch, sprinkle it over and toss again to lightly coat.
  • Air fry in batches: Add a single layer of veggies to the basket. Don’t overcrowd. Cook 10–14 minutes, shaking the basket halfway. Root veggies may need the full time; zucchini and peppers often finish sooner.
  • Taste and adjust: When fries are browned and tender, transfer to a plate.
  • Sprinkle with the remaining 1/2 teaspoon salt while hot. Repeat with remaining veggies.
  • Garnish and serve: Add fresh herbs and a squeeze of lemon if you like. Serve immediately with your favorite dips.