Crispy Air Fryer Zucchini Recipe

Introduction

Crispy air fryer zucchini is a quick and delicious way to enjoy this versatile vegetable. With a simple seasoning and a touch of Parmesan, these golden rounds make a perfect healthy snack or side dish.

Ingredients

• 4 medium zucchinis (about 1.5 pounds)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• ¼ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Wash and dry the zucchinis. Cut off the ends and slice them into rounds about ¼-inch thick.
2. Step 2: In a mixing bowl, combine olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to create a seasoning blend.
3. Step 3: Add the sliced zucchini to the bowl and toss well with the seasoning until evenly coated.
4. Step 4: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes.
5. Step 5: Place the seasoned zucchini slices in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding; cook in batches if needed.
6. Step 6: Air fry for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking. Cook until golden brown and crispy.
7. Step 7: If using Parmesan, sprinkle it over the zucchini during the last 2 minutes of cooking for extra flavor.
8. Step 8: Remove the zucchini from the air fryer and let cool slightly before serving.

Tips & Variations

• For extra crispiness, pat zucchini slices dry before seasoning to remove excess moisture.
• Try adding a pinch of chili powder or Italian seasoning for a different flavor profile.
• Use breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan for a crunchy coating substitute.

Storage

Store leftover zucchini in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the air fryer or oven to restore crispness. Avoid microwaving, as it may make them soggy.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen zucchini for this recipe?

It’s best to use fresh zucchini because frozen zucchini tends to release excess moisture, which can prevent crispiness. If using frozen, make sure to thaw and thoroughly pat dry before cooking.

How do I prevent the zucchini from getting soggy?

Make sure to slice the zucchini evenly and dry them well before seasoning. Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket so hot air can circulate properly for crispiness.

Crispy Air Fryer Zucchini Recipe

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Crispy Air Fryer Zucchini is a healthy and delicious snack or side dish made by air frying seasoned zucchini slices until golden and crunchy. This simple recipe features a blend of garlic, onion, and paprika spices, with an optional sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for an extra flavorful touch. Perfect for a quick low-fat, gluten-free appetizer or snack.

• Author: Clara
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Air Frying
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

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Vegetables

• 4 medium zucchinis (about 1.5 pounds)

Seasonings

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• ¼ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)

Optional

• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

1. Prepare Zucchini: Wash and dry the zucchinis thoroughly. Trim off both ends and slice the zucchinis into rounds approximately ¼-inch thick to ensure even cooking and crispiness.
2. Make Seasoning Blend: In a mixing bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper to form a flavorful seasoning blend that will coat the zucchini slices.
3. Coat Zucchini Slices: Add the zucchini slices to the bowl and toss them well until every piece is evenly coated with the seasoning mixture, ensuring maximum flavor in every bite.
4. Preheat Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes. This step helps achieve optimal crispiness when cooking the zucchini.
5. Arrange Zucchini in Basket: Place the seasoned zucchini slices in a single layer inside the air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding by cooking in batches if necessary to ensure each slice crisps properly.
6. Air Fry Zucchini: Air fry the zucchini at 400°F (200°C) for 12-15 minutes. Shake the basket halfway through cooking to promote even browning and crispness on both sides.
7. Add Parmesan Cheese (Optional): If using, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the zucchini slices during the last 2 minutes of cooking to allow it to melt and add a savory finish.
8. Cool and Serve: Remove the zucchini from the air fryer once golden brown and crispy. Let them cool slightly on a plate before serving to enjoy their full flavor and texture.

Notes

• If your air fryer is small, cook the zucchini in batches to avoid overcrowding which can result in soggy slices.
• You can adjust seasoning quantities to suit your taste preferences, adding more or less spice or salt.
• For a dairy-free option, omit the Parmesan cheese or substitute with a vegan cheese alternative.
• Serve the crispy zucchini with a dipping sauce like marinara, ranch, or garlic aioli for added flavor.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container and reheat in the air fryer or oven to retain crispiness.

Keywords: air fryer zucchini, crispy zucchini slices, healthy zucchini recipe, gluten free snack, low fat side dish, easy air fryer snacks