If you love crunchy snacks, this crispy air fryer zucchini is for you! Easy to make and full of flavor, it transforms simple zucchini into a delicious treat with a golden crust.
I enjoy munching on these as a healthier option to chips while binge-watching my favorite shows. Plus, they cook up in no time—who knew veggies could be this fun?
Making crispy air fryer zucchini is a breeze! Just slice, season, and pop them in the air fryer. You’ll be amazed at how tasty this veggie surprise can be!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: Fresh zucchini is the star here. Look for firm, smooth zucchinis with no soft spots. If you don’t have zucchini, eggplant or yellow squash can be great alternatives for a similar texture.
Breadcrumbs: Panko is preferred for that extra crunch, but regular breadcrumbs will do just fine. If you’re gluten-free, try using crushed rice cereal or gluten-free breadcrumbs.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds flavor and a nice crispy finish. You can swap it for Pecorino Romano for a sharper taste, or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.
Egg: The egg helps the coating stick to the zucchini. If you’re vegan, use a flaxseed meal (1 tablespoon flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) or a commercial egg replacer.
How Do I Get My Zucchini Crispy in the Air Fryer?
Achieving crispy zucchini in the air fryer is all about preparation and technique. Here’s how you can get it right:
- **Dry the Zucchini:** Before slicing, wash and pat the zucchini dry. Removing excess moisture helps them crisp up better.
- **Coat Properly:** Dip each slice in beaten egg, then into the breadcrumb mix. Press gently to ensure the coating sticks well, which enhances crunchiness.
- **Don’t Overcrowd:** Place the zucchini slices in a single layer with space between them in the air fryer. This allows the hot air to circulate and cook them evenly.
- **Right Temperature and Timing:** Preheat your air fryer well and follow the cooking time closely. Flipping the zucchini helps both sides get that lovely golden crust.
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:
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (panko for extra crunch)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 large egg, beaten
- Olive oil spray or cooking spray
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and another 10-12 minutes to cook in the air fryer. So, you’ll be enjoying your crispy zucchini in about 20-25 minutes total! Quick and delicious!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Air Fryer:
Start by preheating your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). This will help ensure your zucchini crisps up nicely while cooking.
2. Prepare the Coating:
In a large bowl, mix together the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Stir the ingredients well until they are combined and evenly mixed.
3. Bread the Zucchini Slices:
Take each zucchini slice and first dip it into the beaten egg, making sure it’s fully coated. Then, dredge it in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently so the crumbs stick well to the zucchini.
4. Arrange in the Air Fryer:
Spray the air fryer basket with olive oil spray to prevent sticking. Place the breaded zucchini slices in a single layer in the basket. Be careful not to overcrowd them, as this can affect their crispiness.
5. Cook Them Crispy:
Lightly spray the tops of the zucchini slices with more olive oil spray to help them brown. Cook them in the air fryer for about 10-12 minutes, flipping them halfway through so they cook evenly and become golden brown.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once they are crispy and golden, remove the zucchini from the air fryer and let them cool slightly. Now they’re ready to serve! Enjoy your crispy air fryer zucchini as a tasty snack or a delightful side dish!
Can I Substitute Other Vegetables Instead of Zucchini?
Absolutely! You can use eggplant, butternut squash, or even mushrooms for a similar preparation. Just be mindful that cooking times may vary—mushrooms will take less time while eggplant may need a tad longer to achieve a crispy texture.
How Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
No problem! You can substitute the breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes. Just ensure that all other ingredients (like the seasoning) are certified gluten-free as well!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover crispy zucchini slices in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, use the air fryer again at 375°F for a few minutes until they are heated through and regain their crispiness.
Can I Use a Different Type of Cheese?
Yes, you can use grated mozzarella, cheddar, or even nutritional yeast for a vegan option! Just keep in mind that different cheeses will bring unique flavors and textures to the dish.
