Why Make This Recipe
Air frying is a great way to cook vegetables, making them crispy without needing a lot of oil. If you love zucchini, this air fryer recipe offers a quick and easy way to enjoy it. It’s a healthy snack or side dish that both kids and adults will love.
How to Make Air Fryer Zucchini
Ingredients:
- 4 medium zucchinis (about 1.5 pounds)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Directions:
- Wash and dry the zucchinis. Cut off the ends and slice them into rounds about 1/4-inch thick.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to create a seasoning blend.
- Add the sliced zucchini to the mixing bowl and toss well with the seasoning until evenly coated.
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes.
- Place the seasoned zucchini slices in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring they are not overcrowded. You may need to cook them in batches.
- Air fry the zucchini for about 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking. Cook until the zucchini is golden brown and crispy.
- If using, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the zucchini slices during the last 2 minutes of cooking for added flavor.
- Once finished, remove the zucchini from the air fryer and let them cool slightly before serving.
How to Serve Air Fryer Zucchini
You can serve air fryer zucchini as a tasty snack, side dish, or even as a topping for salads. They are delicious on their own, but you can also dip them in hummus, ranch dressing, or marinara sauce for extra flavor.
How to Store Air Fryer Zucchini
To store leftover air fryer zucchini, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days. If you want to reheat them, put them back in the air fryer for a few minutes to regain their crispiness.
Tips to Make Air Fryer Zucchini
- Make sure your zucchini is cut into even slices for uniform cooking.
- Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket; cooking in batches helps achieve a crispy texture.
- Experiment with different seasonings, like Italian herbs or spices, to customize the flavor.
Variation
You can also try using other vegetables like eggplant or yellow squash with the same seasoning blend for a varied dish.
FAQs
1. Can I make air fryer zucchini without oil?
Yes, you can skip the olive oil if you prefer. However, the oil helps make the zucchini crispy.
2. How can I tell when the zucchini is done?
The zucchini is done when it is golden brown and crispy. You can also taste a piece to check if it’s cooked to your liking.
3. Can I use frozen zucchini?
Fresh zucchini works best for this recipe. Frozen zucchini may become mushy when cooked in the air fryer. If using frozen, be sure to thaw and drain them first.