Crispy Air Fryer Zucchini Recipe
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
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
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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