Crispy Air Fryer Zucchini is a fun and healthy snack! You get juicy, tender zucchini coated with a light crunch on the outside, all thanks to the magic of the air fryer.
I’ve found that it’s hard to eat just one piece. Try dipping them in your favorite sauce for extra flavor—trust me, they’re totally addictive! 😊
It’s super easy to make, too! Just slice the zucchini, toss it in some seasoning, and let the air fryer do its thing. Perfect for a quick side dish or snack anytime!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: Fresh medium zucchinis are perfect for this recipe. If zucchinis aren’t available, you might try yellow squash or eggplant for a different flavor and texture.
Breadcrumbs: I love using panko for its extra crunch. If you don’t have panko, regular breadcrumbs will work too. For a gluten-free option, use crushed cornflakes or gluten-free breadcrumbs.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan really enhances the flavor. If you prefer a dairy-free option, nutritional yeast can provide a cheesy taste without the dairy.
Egg: The egg helps the coating stick. If you’re vegan or allergic, try using flaxseed meal mixed with water (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 2.5 tablespoons water) as a substitute.
Seasonings: Feel free to adjust the spices! If you like a kick, add a bit of cayenne pepper. For an Italian twist, try adding dried oregano or basil.
What’s the Best Way to Ensure the Zucchini Stays Crispy?
To get that amazing crunch, make sure to follow a few key steps when preparing your zucchini. Here’s how to achieve perfectly crispy air fryer zucchini:
- Slice the zucchini into even 1/4-inch rounds to ensure even cooking.
- Be careful not to overcrowd the air fryer. Cook in batches if needed, so every slice can crisp up nicely.
- Don’t skip the step of spraying or brushing the tops with oil. This helps create that delightful golden crust.
- Flipping the zucchini halfway through cooking is essential for consistent crispiness.
By following these tips, you’ll have crunchy, delicious zucchini every time! Enjoy your cooking!
How to Make Crispy Air Fryer Zucchini
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Zucchini:
- 2 medium zucchini, sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
For the Coating:
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (panko for extra crisp)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 large egg, beaten
- Cooking spray or olive oil for coating
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and roughly 15 minutes to cook in the air fryer. In total, expect around 25 minutes from start to finish for delicious, crispy zucchini!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Air Fryer:
First, turn on your air fryer and preheat it to 400°F (200°C). This step is important for getting that nice crispy texture on your zucchini!
2. Prepare the Coating:
In a mixing bowl, add the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together well so the seasonings are evenly mixed. This is what gives the zucchini its tasty flavor!
3. Coat the Zucchini Slices:
Take each zucchini slice and dip it into the beaten egg, making sure it’s fully coated. Then, dredge the slice in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing down slightly to help the breadcrumbs stick. Repeat this for all the zucchini slices.
4. Arrange in the Air Fryer:
Place the coated zucchini slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket. If you have leftovers, cook them in batches. To make them extra crispy, lightly spray or brush the tops with cooking spray or olive oil.
5. Air Fry the Zucchini:
Cook the zucchini slices in the air fryer for about 12-15 minutes. Be sure to flip them halfway through cooking to achieve that golden-brown color on both sides!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once they’re done cooking, carefully remove the zucchini from the air fryer and let them cool for a minute. Enjoy these crispy air fryer zucchini slices as a tasty snack or a flavorful side dish!
Can I Use Different Types of Zucchini?
Yes! You can substitute with yellow squash or even small eggplants for a different twist. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the size and moisture content of the vegetable.
What If I Don’t Have Breadcrumbs?
No worries! You can easily make a substitute by crushing up some crackers, cornflakes, or even using ground oats for a healthier option. Just ensure they are finely crushed to adhere well to the zucchini!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover crispy zucchini in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, use an air fryer or oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes to regain their crispiness.
Can I Make This Recipe Without Eggs?
Absolutely! You can use a flaxseed meal (1 tablespoon of flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons of water, let it sit for 5 minutes) or a non-dairy milk alternative to dip the zucchini slices. Just ensure whatever substitute you use is thick enough to help the breadcrumbs stick!
