Crispy Air Fryer Zucchini is a tasty and healthy snack that’s super easy to make! With simple seasonings and a quick cook time, you’ll enjoy those golden, crunchy bites in no time.
It’s the perfect way to enjoy zucchini without all the oil! I love munching on these while watching my favorite show. Who knew veggies could be this fun? 🥳
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: Medium zucchinis are perfect for this recipe. They have just the right moisture. If zucchini is out of season, you can use eggplant or summer squash as tasty alternatives.
Breadcrumbs: I love using Panko for that extra crunch. If you prefer a healthier option, try crushed cornflakes or whole wheat breadcrumbs. They both work well!
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds amazing flavor. You can substitute with Pecorino Romano or a dairy-free cheese if needed. Nutritional yeast is a great option for a cheesy taste without dairy.
Spices: Garlic powder and onion powder boost flavor. Feel free to add Italian seasoning or some red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat. It won’t hurt to experiment!
How Do I Get My Zucchini Extra Crispy in the Air Fryer?
The key to crispy zucchini is in the breading technique. Follow these tips to nail that crunch!
- Make sure your zucchini slices are dry before breading. Pat them with a paper towel to remove moisture.
- Coat each slice well in the egg and then the breadcrumb mixture. Press the breadcrumbs on firmly.
- Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket—this helps air circulation for that perfect crispy texture.
- Spraying with cooking spray or a drizzle of olive oil enhances browning and crunch. Don’t skimp on this part!
Crispy Air Fryer Zucchini
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Zucchini:
- 2 medium zucchinis
For the Coating:
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (Panko for extra crunch)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 large eggs
- Cooking spray or olive oil for spraying
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 5 minutes to prepare and 10-12 minutes to cook in the air fryer. In under 20 minutes, you’ll have a delicious and crispy snack or side dish ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Air Fryer:
Start by preheating your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) so it’s nice and hot for cooking the zucchini.
2. Prepare the Zucchini:
Wash the zucchinis thoroughly. Slice each zucchini into rounds that are about 1/4-inch thick. Make sure the slices are even to help them cook evenly.
3. Make the Coating Mixture:
In a shallow bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together so it’s well combined and ready for coating!
4. Beat the Eggs:
In another bowl, crack the two large eggs and beat them until they’re well combined. This will help the breadcrumb mixture stick to the zucchini.
5. Coat the Zucchini Slices:
Take each zucchini slice and dip it into the beaten egg. Allow any extra egg to drip off. Then, roll the slice in the breadcrumb mixture, making sure to coat it thoroughly on all sides.
6. Air Fry the Zucchini:
Place the coated zucchini slices in a single layer in your air fryer basket. Make sure they aren’t overlapping. Spray them lightly with cooking spray or drizzle a little olive oil over the top.
7. Cook Until Crispy:
Air fry the zucchini for about 10-12 minutes, flipping them halfway through the cooking time to ensure they get golden brown and crispy on both sides.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Once the zucchini is done, carefully remove it from the air fryer. Serve immediately as a tasty snack or a side dish. Enjoy your crispy air fryer zucchini!
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While Parmesan adds a nice flavor, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella for a gooey texture or cheddar for a sharper taste. Just keep in mind that moisture content may vary, potentially affecting crispiness.
What If I Don’t Have Panko Breadcrumbs?
No worries! If you don’t have Panko, regular breadcrumbs will work fine. For an extra crunch, try crushing some plain cornflakes or creates a breadcrumb mixture with crushed crackers. Just be sure to season accordingly!
Can I Make This Recipe Without Eggs?
Yes, you can! Substitute the eggs with a mixture of 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal + 2.5 tablespoons of water (let it sit for 5 minutes to thicken). Alternatively, unsweetened applesauce or yogurt can be used for binding, though the texture may differ slightly.
How Should I Store Leftover Zucchini Fries?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them back in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes until crispy again. Avoid the microwave, as it may make them soggy!
