Crispy Air Fryer Zucchini is a fun and tasty way to enjoy this healthy veggie! Just slice zucchini, toss it with a little oil and seasoning, and let the air fryer do its magic.
You’ll love how crunchy they turn out! I could snack on these all day, and they make a great side dish. Plus, they’re healthier than the fried version. Who says veggies can’t be fun? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: Fresh zucchinis are key to this recipe. Look for ones that are firm and free of blemishes. If zucchinis aren’t available, you could use eggplant or summer squash as alternatives, though they vary in flavor and texture.
Breadcrumbs: I recommend Panko for that extra crunch, but if you only have regular breadcrumbs, that’s fine too. You could even try crushed cornflakes or if you want a gluten-free option, use crushed gluten-free crackers.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan gives the best flavor, but if you don’t have it, try Pecorino Romano or another hard cheese. Nutritional yeast is a great dairy-free substitute that adds a cheesy flavor.
Seasonings: The garlic and onion powder bring a great flavor boost. You could replace the Italian seasoning with dried oregano or basil if that’s what you have on hand. Always adjust according to taste!
How Do I Get Zucchini Crispy in the Air Fryer?
Getting zucchini crispy in the air fryer is all about the preparation and cooking method. Follow these steps for the best results:
- Slice the zucchini into 1/4-inch thick rounds for even cooking.
- Don’t skip the egg wash; it helps the breadcrumbs stick and creates a crunchy coating.
- Ensure the zucchini slices are arranged in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of crisping.
- Apply a light spray of cooking oil to enhance crispiness. It’s surprising how a bit of oil can make a difference!
- Flipping halfway through cooking helps ensure both sides get that golden-brown color.
How to Make Crispy Air Fryer Zucchini
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Zucchini:
- 2 medium zucchinis
- 2 large eggs
- Cooking spray or olive oil spray
For the Coating:
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (Panko for extra crunch or regular)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 5 minutes to prep and around 10-12 minutes to cook in the air fryer. In total, you’ll be enjoying these crispy zucchini slices in about 20 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Air Fryer:
Turn on your air fryer and preheat it to 400°F (200°C). Preheating ensures your zucchini will cook evenly and become nice and crispy!
2. Prepare the Zucchini:
Wash the zucchinis thoroughly to remove any dirt. Then, slice them into rounds that are about 1/4-inch thick. Keep them as even as possible for the best cooking results.
3. Mix the Coating:
In a shallow bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until well mixed.
4. Beat the Eggs:
In another bowl, crack the eggs and beat them until they are well combined. This will help the breadcrumbs stick to the zucchini slices.
5. Coat the Zucchini Slices:
Take each zucchini slice and dip it into the egg mixture, letting any excess egg drip off. Then, coat it thoroughly with the breadcrumb mixture. Press gently to make sure the crumbs stick well.
6. Arrange in the Air Fryer:
Place the coated zucchini slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Make sure they aren’t overlapping. Then, spray the tops lightly with cooking spray to help them crisp up.
7. Cook the Zucchini:
Cook the zucchini in the air fryer for about 10-12 minutes. Flip them halfway through cooking to ensure both sides get nice and golden brown and crispy.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Once the zucchini is cooked and crispy, carefully remove them from the air fryer. Let them cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your crispy air fryer zucchini as a tasty snack or a crunchy side dish!
Can I Use Other Vegetables Instead of Zucchini?
Absolutely! You can substitute zucchini with eggplant, yellow squash, or even bell peppers. Just make sure to cut the pieces to a similar thickness to ensure even cooking. Keep in mind that cooking times may vary based on the vegetable you choose.
What if I Don’t Have Panko Breadcrumbs?
No problem! You can use regular breadcrumbs instead, though the texture may be slightly less crispy. If you’re out of breadcrumbs entirely, crushed crackers or cornflakes can work as a crunchy substitute as well.
Can I Prepare These Zucchini Slices Ahead of Time?
You can prep the coated zucchini slices in advance! Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and cover them with plastic wrap. Store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before air frying. Just be sure to remove them from the fridge and let them sit for about 10 minutes before cooking to ensure even cooking.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat and keep them crispy, pop them back in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes. This will revive their crunchiness!
