Baked Eggplant and Zucchini Fries

by Lydia Marshall

We have GORGEOUS eggplant at a great price - 2 for $3...come on in and get yours while supplies last!

This vegetable is regularly used in Italian and Middle Eastern cuisines, but not so much in the States.

Eggplant boasts a slew of health properties. This nightshade vegetable in the family with tomatoes, potatoes and sweeter peppers grow hanging on a vine and can have a slightly bitter hint with a spongy texture. When breaded and fried...they are divine as served in Eggplant Parmesan.

Eggplant delivers a good dose of minerals, vitamins, and especially phytonutrients (natural chemicals in plants that help to prevent disease)...big doses of antioxidant power for overall good health. Plants have the power to protect themselves against "oxidative" damage from the exposure to the elements...and this is how they help to protect our cells from "oxidative" stress as well.

This version of breaded eggplant is baked and served as a side dish or snack. When dipped in tomato sauce or ranch dressing it is delicious and becomes a huge hit for kids...even picky eaters. Zucchini is always a hit this way as well.

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Eggplant & Zucchini Fries

1 small / med eggplant - peeled and cut in to strips like fries
2 zucchini  - not peeled, but cut in to strips like fries
3 eggs
1 1/2 cups flour of choice
1 1/2 cups bread crumbs or Panko crumbs
1 1/2 teaspoons Italian dried herb blend
2 tablespoons Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Olive oil or olive oil spray


Preheat oven to 425 degrees. Get three shallow bowls out and in the first put the flour. In the second scramble all three eggs. In the third put the bread crumbs. Divide the herbs, seasonings and Parmesan between all three bowls. Make sure the vegetables are dry. Dip each fry in to the flour first, then the egg and finally the breadcrumbs. Place on a foil lined cookie sheet that's been drizzled with oil or sprayed with olive oil spray. Bake 10 minutes, flip over and bake another 10 to 12 or until golden brown. Serve with your favorite tomato sauce, marinara and / or ranch dressing and ENJOY!!!