Description
A healthy and delicious air fryer zucchini recipe that is crispy and flavorful, perfect as a side dish or snack.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 – 3 medium zucchini (3 1/2 – 4 cups total), cut into 1/4 -inch thick half moons or quarters
- 2 tablespoons (30 ml) grated Parmesan cheese
- 11/2 teaspoon (5 g) garlic powder
- 11/2 teaspoon (5 g) onion powder
- 11/2 teaspoon (5 g) chili powder
- 1/21/2 teaspoon (3 g) fine salt
- 1/41/2 teaspoon (1 g) black pepper
- 2 tablespoons (30 ml) avocado oil or olive oil
Instructions
- Prep the Zucchini: Start by cutting the zucchini into even pieces, about the same size. Ensure to cut them into 1/4 -inch thick half moons or quarters. This helps them cook uniformly while looking nice on the plate. Be careful not to cut them too small, or they will turn mushy while cooking.
- Season & Oil: Toss your zucchini pieces with a touch of oil and your favorite seasonings in a mixing bowl. Use a light spritz of oil instead of pouring directly on to avoid becoming greasy. Add the garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, fine salt, black pepper, and grated Parmesan cheese to the bowl. Give them a good mix and enjoy the delicious aroma that builds up.
- Arrange in Air Fryer: Lay the seasoned zucchini pieces in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Make sure there is some space between them so they crisp up beautifully. Overcrowding the basket will result in uneven cooking, which can lead to soggy zucchini.
- Cook & Check: Air fry the zucchini for around 12 to 15 minutes. Shake the basket halfway through cooking. Begin to check toward the end of the cooking time, as the timing varies based on the air fryer model. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning.
- Serve & Enjoy: Once they are golden and crispy, remove the zucchini from the air fryer and let them rest briefly. Serve immediately to keep them nice and crispy. They can be enjoyed on their own or with a dipping sauce!
Notes
- Storage Tips: Airtight container: Store in the fridge for up to 4 days at temperatures below 40 degrees F. Do not freeze as zucchini gets mushy once thawed.
- Expert Tips: Cut zucchini into uniform sizes to ensure even cooking.
- Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket; this promotes crispiness.
- Use a light spritz of oil to avoid greasy texture; avoid soaking the zucchini in oil.
- If zucchini browns too quickly, lower the air fryer temperature and watch closely.
- For larger batches, consider cooking in multiple batches to achieve that desired crisp texture.
- Reheating Instructions: Method: Air fryer, Temperature: 350 degrees F, Timing: 3-5 minutes to heat through.
- Serving Suggestions: Pair with grilled chicken or fish.
- Serve alongside a fresh salad or quinoa dish.
- Add as a crispy element to tacos or wraps.
- Recipe Variations: Sprinkle with Italian seasoning for extra flavor.
- Add panko breadcrumbs for a crunchy coating.
- Incorporate bell peppers or onions for variety.
- Ingredient Notes: Select firm and fresh zucchini for the best results.
- Dairy-free grated Parmesan can be substituted for the cheese to align with dietary preferences.
- Extra virgin olive oil can replace avocado oil if desired.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 84
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 365mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 3mg