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In recent years, air frying has emerged as a revolutionary cooking method, transforming the way we prepare our favorite foods. By utilizing hot air to cook food, air fryers produce a crispy exterior without the excess oil typically associated with traditional frying methods. This makes air frying a popular choice for health-conscious individuals seeking to enjoy their favorite dishes with fewer calories and less fat. One such delightful creation is Crispy Rainbow Crunch Air-Fried Veggie Sticks—an exciting, nutritious snack that offers a colorful presentation and a satisfying crunch.

Crunchy Air-Fried Veggie Sticks

Discover a vibrant and crunchy snacking option with Crispy Rainbow Crunch Air-Fried Veggie Sticks! This healthier alternative uses air frying to create deliciously crispy treats without the excess oil of traditional frying. Packed with colorful vegetables like zucchini, carrots, and bell peppers, these sticks are both nutritious and visually appealing. Perfect for both adults and kids, they make healthy snacking enjoyable while retaining essential nutrients. Try them with your favorite dip for a satisfying snack experience!
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Ingredients
  

1 medium zucchini, sliced into thin sticks

1 medium carrot, sliced into thin sticks

1 red bell pepper, sliced into thin strips

1 yellow bell pepper, sliced into thin strips

1 cup green beans, trimmed and halved

3 tablespoons olive oil

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

½ teaspoon salt

½ teaspoon black pepper

¾ cup whole-wheat breadcrumbs (or panko for extra crunch)

¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional for added flavor)

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions
 

Prep the Veggies: Start by thoroughly washing all your vegetables. Once clean, slice the zucchini and carrot into thin sticks, and cut the red and yellow bell peppers into thin strips. Prepare the green beans by trimming their ends and cutting them in half.

    Make the Coating: In a large mixing bowl, pour in the olive oil. Add the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to combine the ingredients into a flavorful marinade.

      Coat the Veggies: Add the sliced vegetables into the bowl with the marinade. Toss them gently but thoroughly until each piece is evenly coated in the seasoning.

        Prepare the Breading: In a separate bowl, combine the whole-wheat breadcrumbs with the grated Parmesan cheese (if you're using it). Mix until evenly distributed.

          Bread the Veggies: Take each veggie stick from the marinade and dip it into the breadcrumb mixture. Gently press them into the breadcrumbs to ensure a good coating, and then place the breaded sticks onto a plate or tray in a single layer.

            Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for approximately 5-7 minutes. Preheating is key to achieving a crispy texture on the veggie sticks.

              Air Fry the Veggies: Carefully arrange the coated veggie sticks in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring there’s enough space between them. This may require cooking them in batches. Air fry for 10-12 minutes, remembering to shake the basket halfway through to promote even cooking.

                Check for Doneness: The veggie sticks should emerge golden brown and crispy. If they aren’t as crunchy as you like, you can add an extra 2-3 minutes of cooking time.

                  Serve: Once cooked, carefully remove the veggie sticks from the air fryer. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley to add a splash of color. Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce, such as hummus or tzatziki, for a delightful crunch!

                    Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 25 minutes | 4 servings