This crispy air fryer zucchini is a fun and healthy snack! Sliced and lightly seasoned, it turns golden brown and crunchy without needing much oil.
You won’t believe how easy it is to make! I could eat a whole tray by myself and still feel like I’m being healthy. Who knew veggies could be so tasty? 😂
I love serving it with a tasty dip, like ranch or marinara, for an extra kick. It’s a great way to sneak in some greens while enjoying a crunch!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: Fresh zucchinis are the star here. Look for firm, bright green ones. If you can’t find zucchini, yellow squash works great too!
Breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs are ideal for that extra crunch. If you need a gluten-free option, try using crushed rice cereal or gluten-free breadcrumbs instead.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a salty, nutty flavor. You can substitute with Pecorino Romano for a sharper taste or use nutritional yeast for a vegan alternative.
Eggs: Eggs help the breadcrumbs stick. If you’re vegan or allergic, consider using a flaxseed meal mix (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed with 2.5 tablespoons water) per egg.
How Can I Make Sure My Zucchini is Crispy?
Getting crispy zucchini slices is all about proper preparation and cooking technique. Here’s how to achieve that perfect crunch:
- Cut the zucchini into even slices about 1/4-inch thick. This ensures even cooking.
- Dry the zucchini after washing. Excess moisture can lead to sogginess.
- Coat each slice thoroughly: dip in the egg, then press it into the breadcrumb mix, so it adheres well.
- Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket. Slices need space for air to circulate and crisp up.
- Keep an eye on them while they cook. If they’re not golden after 10-12 minutes, add a couple of extra minutes as needed.
How to Make Crispy Air Fryer Zucchini
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Zucchini:
- 2 medium zucchinis
For the Coating:
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (Panko recommended for extra crunch)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 large eggs
- Cooking spray or olive oil (for coating)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 10 minutes of prep time and 12 minutes of cooking time. So, in total, you’ll spend approximately 22 minutes to make this tasty snack or side dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Air Fryer:
First, set your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) to get it nice and hot while you prepare the zucchini. Preheating ensures that the zucchini becomes perfectly crispy!
2. Prepare the Zucchini:
Wash your zucchinis under cool water. Slice them into about 1/4-inch thick rounds. If you want, you can trim the ends for a nicer look, but it’s not necessary!
3. Make the Coating:
In a shallow bowl, mix together the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. This will be the tasty coating for your zucchini!
4. Beat the Eggs:
In another bowl, crack the two large eggs and whisk them together until fully combined. This is what will help the breadcrumb mixture stick to the zucchini.
5. Coat the Zucchini Slices:
Take each zucchini slice and dip it first into the beaten eggs, letting any excess egg drip off. Then, roll it in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing lightly so it sticks well. Repeat for all the zucchini slices!
6. Air Fry the Zucchini:
Place the coated zucchini slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket. If you want, you can spray them lightly with cooking spray or drizzle some olive oil on top for an extra crunchy texture.
7. Cook Until Crispy:
Air fry the zucchini for about 10-12 minutes. Be sure to flip the slices halfway through so that they cook evenly. You’ll know they’re done when they’re golden brown and crispy!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Once they are perfectly cooked, remove the zucchini from the air fryer and let them cool for a few moments. Enjoy your crispy air fryer zucchini as a delicious snack or side dish!
Can I Use Different Types of Zucchini?
Absolutely! While medium zucchinis are ideal, you can also use yellow squash or even smaller zucchinis. Just keep in mind that smaller or different shaped zucchinis may cook faster, so adjust the air frying time accordingly!
What Can I Substitute for Panko Breadcrumbs?
If you don’t have Panko breadcrumbs, regular breadcrumbs will work fine, but the texture may be less crunchy. You can also use crushed cornflakes or almonds for a gluten-free option! Just be mindful to adjust the seasoning as these alternatives may have different flavor profiles.
How to Store Leftover Air Fryer Zucchini?
Store leftover zucchini slices in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, use the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 3-5 minutes for best results, restoring their crispiness.
