This Crispy Air Fryer Zucchini is a fun and healthy way to enjoy your veggies! With its crunchy outside and tender inside, it’s perfect for snacking or as a tasty side.
Honestly, I can’t get enough of these little bites! They are so easy to make—just slice, season, and air fry. They disappear quickly, so I always try to make extra. Who can resist? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: Fresh, firm zucchinis are key for this recipe. If you’re out of zucchini, you can also use eggplant, yellow squash, or even sliced bell peppers for a twist.
Breadcrumbs: I prefer panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch, but regular breadcrumbs work too. If you need a gluten-free option, try crushed rice cereal or gluten-free breadcrumbs.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a wonderful cheesy flavor. For a dairy-free option, nutritional yeast can provide a similar cheesy taste. Or use a vegan cheese substitute if desired.
Eggs: The eggs help the breadcrumbs stick. If you’re looking for a vegan option, try flaxseed meal mixed with water (1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal with 3 tablespoons of water) to replace one egg.
Spices: Garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika are great for flavor. Feel free to experiment with other spices like Italian seasoning or cayenne for a bit of heat!
How Can You Achieve Perfectly Crispy Zucchini in an Air Fryer?
The secret to crispy zucchini lies in the coating and the cooking method. Here are some steps to ensure you get that lovely crunch:
- Preheat the air fryer for the best results. A hot air fryer helps to seal in moisture while crisping the outside.
- Make sure to dip the zucchini in the egg mixture thoroughly, letting excess drip off. This helps the breadcrumbs adhere better.
- Press the breadcrumb mixture onto each slice. The more you press it on, the crunchier they’ll be.
- Avoid overcrowding in the air fryer. Giving each slice space allows them to cook evenly and get crispy.
- Spray them lightly with cooking spray for an extra crispy exterior. You can also toss them in oil before coating for a richer flavor.
- Keep an eye on them towards the end of cooking! Air fryers can vary in speed, so check for that lovely golden brown color.
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 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Egg Wash:
- 2 large eggs
For Spraying:
- Cooking spray or olive oil spray
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take around 15 minutes of prep time and about 12 minutes of cooking time. So, you’ll be enjoying your crispy zucchini in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Air Fryer:
Start by preheating your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure the zucchini cooks evenly and gets 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 pepper. Stir everything well so the flavors combine perfectly.
3. Beat the Eggs:
In another bowl, crack the two eggs and beat them until they’re well combined. This will help the breadcrumbs stick to your zucchini nicely.
4. Coat the Zucchini Slices:
Take each zucchini slice and first dip it into the beaten eggs. Let any extra egg drip off, then coat it in the breadcrumb mixture. Press lightly to help the crumbs stick well to each slice.
5. Arrange in the Air Fryer:
Place the coated zucchini slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Make sure not to overcrowd them—you might need to cook in batches to keep them crispy.
6. Spray for Crispiness:
Lightly spray the zucchini slices with cooking spray or olive oil spray. This will help them turn golden brown and crispy while cooking.
7. Air Fry the Zucchini:
Air fry the zucchini for about 10-12 minutes, flipping them halfway through. Keep an eye on them until they’re beautifully golden and crispy.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Once they’re done, carefully remove the zucchini from the air fryer and serve immediately. If you like, you can garnish with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of extra Parmesan. Enjoy your delicious crispy air fryer zucchini!
Can I Use Other Vegetables Instead of Zucchini?
Absolutely! You can substitute zucchini with other vegetables like eggplant, yellow squash, or even carrots. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, as some vegetables may require a bit more or less time to become crispy.
How Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
To make this recipe gluten-free, simply use gluten-free breadcrumbs instead of regular panko or breadcrumbs. There are several brands available, or you can make your own using gluten-free bread!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, use the air fryer again at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes to regain that crispiness. You can also use the oven at 375°F (190°C) for similar results.
Can I Make These Zucchini Slices Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the zucchini slices and coat them with the breadcrumb mixture ahead of time. Just place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and refrigerate for up to 2 hours before air frying. This helps the coating adhere better when cooking!
