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Keto Zucchini Buffalo Bites - Spicy, Crunchy, and Low-Carb

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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 2 medium zucchinis, cut into 1/2-inch rounds or batons
  • 1 large egg, beaten
  • 1 cup pork panko (finely crushed pork rinds) or almond flour for a softer crust
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (fine, not shredded)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1/3 cup buffalo hot sauce (like Frank’s RedHot)
  • Avocado oil spray or 1–2 tablespoons avocado oil
  • Ranch or blue cheese dressing, for serving
  • Celery sticks, optional for serving

Method
 

  1. Prep the zucchini: Wash and dry the zucchinis. Slice into 1/2-inch rounds or cut into batons (think thick fries). Pat dry again to remove surface moisture.
  2. Set up the coating station: In one bowl, beat the egg. In another, mix pork panko (or almond flour), Parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
  3. Coat the zucchini: Dip pieces into the egg, shake off excess, then press into the crumb mixture. Place on a parchment-lined sheet or plate. For extra crunch, chill the coated pieces for 10 minutes while the oven or air fryer heats.
  4. Oven method: Preheat to 425°F (220°C). Arrange zucchini on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Spray lightly with avocado oil. Bake 12–15 minutes, flip, spray again, and bake another 8–10 minutes until golden and crisp.
  5. Air fryer method: Preheat to 400°F (205°C). Spray the basket. Air fry in a single layer for 8–10 minutes, shake or flip, and cook 4–6 minutes more until browned and crunchy. Work in batches to avoid crowding.
  6. Make the buffalo sauce: Melt the butter in a small saucepan over low heat. Whisk in the hot sauce until smooth and slightly thickened. Keep warm.
  7. Toss and serve: Transfer hot zucchini to a large bowl. Drizzle with buffalo sauce and toss gently to coat. Taste and add a pinch of salt if needed. Serve right away with ranch or blue cheese and celery sticks.