Crispy Air Fryer Zucchini makes a tasty snack or side dish! It’s so easy to whip up, you’ll be amazed at how delicious this veggie can be with just a bit of seasoning and air frying.
These golden, crunchy bites can turn even the biggest veggie skeptic into a fan! I love serving them with a nice dip, but honestly, they’re good enough to enjoy plain too! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: Fresh medium zucchinis are best for this recipe as they hold their shape and absorb flavors well. If you can’t find zucchinis, yellow squash can be a good substitute.
Breadcrumbs: I recommend using panko breadcrumbs for an extra crispy texture. Regular breadcrumbs work too, but you can also try crushed cornflakes or gluten-free breadcrumbs if you need a substitute.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a nice umami flavor. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, nutritional yeast can give a cheesy flavor without dairy.
Spices: Garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika add a good depth of flavor. Feel free to adjust these spices or try adding Italian herbs like oregano or thyme for a twist!
Eggs: Eggs help the breadcrumb stick to the zucchini. If you prefer a vegan option, you can use flaxseed meal mixed with water (1 tbsp flaxseed + 2.5 tbsp water) as a substitute.
How Do You Get the Perfect Crisp on Your Zucchini?
Getting your zucchini crispy is essential, and it really depends on the coating and cooking method. First, ensure you slice the zucchini evenly to promote even cooking. Aim for 1/4-inch thick rounds.
- After whisking the eggs, dip each zucchini slice well, letting extra egg drip off. This helps the breadcrumbs stick better.
- Coat them in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing lightly so it adheres well.
- For extra crispiness, lightly spray the coated zucchini with cooking spray or drizzle some olive oil before air frying.
- Make sure to arrange the slices in a single layer without stacking them in the air fryer. This allows hot air to circulate properly.
Keep an eye on them while cooking; if they’re not browned after 10 minutes, add another few minutes. After frying, let them cool slightly to maintain crispiness. Enjoy your crunchy zucchini!
How to Make Crispy Air Fryer Zucchini
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Zucchini:
- 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
For the Coating:
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
For the Egg Wash:
- 2 large eggs
To Grease:
- Cooking spray or olive oil for greasing
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe is quick and easy! You’ll need about 10 minutes for preparation and another 10-12 minutes for cooking in the air fryer. In total, you’re looking at around 20-25 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a tasty snack or side dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Air Fryer:
Start by preheating your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). This helps to ensure that your zucchini slices will cook evenly and get nice and crispy.
2. Prepare the Coating:
In a shallow bowl, mix together the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir it well so all the ingredients are blended together for an even coating.
3. Whisk the Eggs:
In another bowl, crack the two large eggs and whisk them until well beaten. This will be your egg wash to help the breadcrumbs stick to the zucchini.
4. Coat the Zucchini Slices:
Take each zucchini slice and dip it first into the beaten eggs, letting any excess egg drip off. Then, coat the slice with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing lightly to help it stick. Repeat this for all the zucchini slices.
5. Air Fry the Zucchini:
Arrange the coated zucchini slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket. If you want them extra crispy, give them a light spray with cooking spray or drizzle a little olive oil over them. Close the air fryer and cook for about 10-12 minutes, flipping the slices halfway through to ensure even cooking.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once they’re golden brown and crispy, carefully remove the zucchini slices from the air fryer. Let them cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious and healthy air fryer zucchini as a snack or a side dish!
Can I Use Other Vegetables Instead of Zucchini?
Absolutely! You can substitute zucchini with vegetables like eggplant, yellow squash, or even sliced bell peppers. Just adjust the cooking time slightly, as denser vegetables may require a little longer to cook.
How Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
To make this dish gluten-free, simply use gluten-free breadcrumbs instead of regular ones. You can also crush gluten-free crackers or make your own breadcrumbs from gluten-free bread for a similar texture!
What Should I Do with Leftover Coated Zucchini?
If you have leftover coated zucchini slices, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. You can air fry leftover slices again for a few minutes to re-crisp them, or incorporate them into a stir-fry or salad for added flavor!
Can I Prepare the Zucchini Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can slice and coat the zucchini slices a few hours in advance. Just make sure to keep them covered in the fridge until you’re ready to air fry. However, it’s best to cook them fresh for the crispiest texture!
