Summer is in full swing, and so are the vegetables taking over our garden. Bright yellow zucchini flowers are blossoming, giving way to gorgeous homegrown zucchini. Substitute traditional fries with these baked zucchini crisps for a healthy summertime snack or starter for a summer barbecue. They’re packed with a ton of flavour thanks to tasty additions like fresh basil leaves and Parmesan cheese-which by the way steals the show, providing a tangy flavour and an extra crunchy bite to the fries.

Ok, moms. Let’s talk veggies. There’s that age-old question; ‘How can I get my kids to eat more veggies?’ My answer is-you don’t! I strongly believe that despite our sincerest of efforts, we’re ultimately going against our children’s innate antipathy for veggies, thus creating unnecessary stress and frustration for both us and the kids at mealtimes. However, I also believe that continuing to offer vegetables to our kids in a variety of ways is of upmost importance in developing their palates, rather than giving in and contenting them with only cheese and carbs at every meal time. I mean, I hated vegetables when I was a child, and I’m now a vegetarian. Go figure!

Prepare a batch of these baked zucchini crisps for your next summer get-together or for a family barbecue. They’re a terrific accompaniment to any protein-just like traditional fries, and can be served with a variety of dipping sauces such as ketchup, tzatziki, and hummus. You get full bragging rights with this recipe, in terms of boasting about your lovely garden and all the effort you put into making it, and you can enjoy the fruits of your labour (growing those delicious zucchini) with this healthy side dish.

If you try this recipe (and love it!) be sure to snap a pic and tag me onInstagram with #bitesforfoodies so I can see your creation!