I make this for side dishes or sometimes for snacking. The grandkids love these too. I don't remember where I originally found the recipe but it is a keeper in our house. I thought some of you might like it, too.

I have never preheated my air fryer to cook them but I did find out recently that preheating makes things crispier so I will try it next time to see how I like it. My air fryer often burns things if I preheat so I have to watch them closely which kinda defeats the purpose of using the air fryer.

Zucchini Sticks with Marinara Sauce
Crisp cheese coated sticks that are tender and juicy on the inside. Dip in marinara for a flavor explosion.
These will be your favorite side dish with pork chops, chicken or fish. Pop them in the air fryer or convection oven while you pan sear your protein. Yum.

Ingredients

Ingredients
1/4 cup panko crumbs
1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
½ teaspoon oregano
1 teaspoon garlic powder
2 medium zucchini, unpeeled, cut into sticks about 4 inches long
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
1 large egg, lightly beaten
Instructions
Preheat air fryer as per directions - I used the 390 setting. If using convection toaster oven, preheat to 400 degrees.
Mix the panko with the cheese, oregano and garlic powder in a bowl. Season the zucchini with salt and pepper.
Dip the zucchini in the egg and then dredge in the cheese crumb mixture.
Arrange in the air fryer basket. (or on Pam-sprayed baking sheet) and air fry or bake until golden, 10 to 12 minutes.
Marinara Sauce
Fry up a clove of sliced garlic in 1 tablespoon olive oil in a small heavy saucepan until golden.
Add a large can of Italian Crushed Tomatoes, 1 teaspoon salt and a big pinch of crushed red pepper flakes.
Add a small (2 ounce) package of fresh basil.
Allow to bubble away on medium heat for 10 minutes and serve with sticks with remainder for another dish.