Imagine transforming ordinary vegetables into a crunchy, irresistible side dish that will make even the pickiest eaters ask for seconds! These Vegetable Matchstick Fries are not just a healthier alternative to traditional french fries, but a culinary adventure that brings vibrant colors, incredible textures, and explosive flavors to your plate. Forget boring diet food – this recipe is about to prove that nutritious can be absolutely delicious!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 large zucchinis
- 2 large carrots
- 2 large sweet potatoes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon mixed dried herbs (thyme, rosemary, oregano)
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Wash all vegetables thoroughly under cold running water to remove any dirt or debris.
- Using a sharp knife or mandoline slicer, carefully cut zucchinis, carrots, and sweet potatoes into thin, uniform matchstick-sized pieces approximately 1/8 inch thick and 3-4 inches long. Aim for consistent sizing to ensure even cooking.
- Pat the cut vegetables dry with clean kitchen towels or paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps achieve crispier results during roasting.
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C) and line two large baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- In a small bowl, mix olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, and dried herbs to create a seasoning blend.
- Place vegetable matchsticks in a large mixing bowl and drizzle with the prepared herb-oil mixture. Gently toss to ensure even coating.
- Spread the seasoned vegetable matchsticks in a single layer on the prepared baking sheets, ensuring they are not overcrowded to allow proper roasting and crisp edges.
- Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, turning the vegetables halfway through cooking to ensure even browning and crispness.
- Remove from oven when vegetables are golden brown and crispy at the edges. Let cool for 2-3 minutes.
- Sprinkle with additional salt to taste and serve immediately as a healthy, colorful side dish.
Tips
- Knife Skills Matter: Use a sharp knife or mandoline for uniform cuts to ensure even cooking and maximum crispiness.
- Moisture is the Enemy of Crispiness: Always pat your vegetable matchsticks completely dry before seasoning and roasting.
- Don't Overcrowd the Baking Sheet: Give your vegetables space to breathe – overcrowding leads to steaming instead of roasting.
- Customize Your Herb Salt: Experiment with different dried herb combinations like Italian blend, Herbs de Provence, or even a spicy seasoning mix.
- Serve Immediately: These fries are best enjoyed right out of the oven when they're at peak crispiness.
- Make-Ahead Tip: You can prep the vegetable matchsticks earlier in the day and store them in cold water in the refrigerator to maintain freshness.
- Perfect Seasoning: Toss the vegetables in the herb-oil mixture just before roasting to prevent them from getting soggy.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 150kcal
Carbohydrates: 30g
Protein: 3g
Fat: 4g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
