Air Fryer Zucchini: A Healthy and Tasty Treat

Air fryer zucchini is a quick and healthy dish that can transform your cooking routine. Perfectly crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, this dish is packed with flavor and is a great way to enjoy more vegetables in your diet. Whether you’re looking for a side dish, a snack, or a light appetizer, air fryer zucchini hits the spot. Plus, it’s easy to prepare, making it a go-to recipe for busy days.

Why Make This Recipe

This air fryer zucchini recipe is not just simple to make but also a delicious way to enjoy zucchini. It’s gluten-free, low in calories, and can be customized with various seasonings to suit your taste. Preparing zucchini in an air fryer gives it a crispy texture without needing a lot of oil, making it a healthier alternative to frying. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or guests, this dish can be a delightful addition to your meal.

How to Make Air Fryer Zucchini

Follow these simple steps to create a tasty air fryer zucchini dish that everyone will love!

Ingredients

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

Directions

1. Wash and Dry the Zucchinis: Rinse the zucchinis under cold water and dry them thoroughly.
2. Cut the Zucchinis: Trim the ends and slice the zucchinis into 1/4-inch thick rounds.
3. Prepare the Seasoning: In a mixing bowl, combine olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix them well to create a seasoning blend.
4. Coat the Zucchini Slices: Add the sliced zucchini to the mixing bowl. Toss them until every slice is evenly coated with the seasoning.
5. Preheat the Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to preheat at 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes.
6. Air Fry the Zucchini: Place the seasoned zucchini slices in the air fryer basket in a single layer, avoiding overcrowding. Cook them for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking.
7. Add Parmesan (Optional): If you like, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the zucchini slices during the last 2 minutes of cooking.
8. Cool and Serve: Remove the zucchini from the air fryer and allow them to cool slightly before serving.

How to Serve Air Fryer Zucchini

Serve your air fryer zucchini hot, either alone or alongside a dip like ranch or a yogurt-based sauce. They also make a great side dish for grilled meats or as part of a salad.

How to Store Air Fryer Zucchini

To keep your delicious air fryer zucchini fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer for a few minutes to regain their crispiness.

Tips to Make Air Fryer Zucchini

• Avoid Overcrowding: Make sure the zucchini slices are not crowded in the air fryer basket; this helps them cook evenly and become crispy.
• Experiment with Spices: Feel free to customize the seasonings according to your preference; consider adding Italian herbs or Cajun seasoning for an extra kick.
• Prep Ahead: You can slice and season your zucchini in advance and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before air frying.

Variations

• Cheesy Zucchini: Add more cheese varieties like mozzarella or feta for a different flavor.
• Spicy Zucchini: Incorporate cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
• Breading: Use breadcrumbs in addition to seasoning for an extra crunchy texture.

FAQs

1. Can I use other vegetables in this recipe?
Yes! You can air fry other vegetables such as bell peppers, eggplants, or carrots using the same method.

2. How do I know when the zucchini is cooked?
The zucchini should be golden brown and tender when done. A fork should easily pierce through.

3. Can I make this recipe without Parmesan cheese?
Absolutely! You can skip the cheese altogether, or substitute it with nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy.

Enjoy your delicious air fryer zucchini! Perfect for any occasion, this dish is sure to please everyone at the table.

Air Fryer Zucchini

Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, this air fryer zucchini is a quick, healthy, and flavorful dish, perfect as a side, snack, or appetizer.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 25 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Appetizer, Side Dish

Cuisine: American

Calories: 150

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 4 medium medium zucchinis About 1.5 pounds
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon salt Or to taste
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper Or to taste
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese Optional

Method

 

Preparation

1. Rinse the zucchinis under cold water and dry them thoroughly.
2. Trim the ends and slice the zucchinis into 1/4-inch thick rounds.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix them well to create a seasoning blend.
4. Add the sliced zucchini to the mixing bowl. Toss them until every slice is evenly coated with the seasoning.
5. Set your air fryer to preheat at 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes.

Cooking

1. Place the seasoned zucchini slices in the air fryer basket in a single layer, avoiding overcrowding. Cook them for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking.
2. If desired, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the zucchini slices during the last 2 minutes of cooking.
3. Remove the zucchini from the air fryer and allow them to cool slightly before serving.

Notes

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer for a few minutes to regain their crispiness. Avoid overcrowding for even cooking.