Farmers Market Fresh: Try Zucchini Fries (Recipe)

Who doesn't love fries? They're finger foods that are easily accessible and the perfect snack size.

But we all know that fries don't have the best reputation for healthy eating. Thankfully, the Del Mar and Carmel Valley farmers markets have the perfect substitute for fries that can be oven-baked. They also will satisfy your snack craving in a healthier way.

Mexican squash are in season right now, along with zucchini. The Mexican squash are light green and white on the inside, with a slightly different taste from the zucchini.

"They're sweeter than the green [zucchini]," said Lupe Figueroa, seller for Valdivia Farms last year. "They're tastier."

Their sweetness makes for a nice contrast with a crispy and savory panko coating. And another reason they're perfect for oven fries? They're not as moisture-rich as normal squash.

"They don't retain as much water," Figueroa said. "They don't fall apart as easy as zucchini."

Looking for the perfect pairing for that turkey or veggie burger? Bake up a batch of these healthy fries from Health.com and feel good about snacking away.

Zucchini Oven Fries

• 2 Mexican squash
• 1 egg white
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup seasoned Panko breadcrumbs
• Vegetable cooking spray

Bake Them

1. Preheat oven to 425 degrees.
2. Cut squash into 3-inch sticks.
3. Whisk egg white in a small bowl, and add milk.
4. Combine Parmesan and seasoned bread crumbs in a separate bowl.
5. Dip squash sticks into egg mixture, and then roll in bread crumb mixture.
6. Coat a baking sheet with cooking spray, and place sticks on sheet. Bake for 25–30 minutes or until golden brown.