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Crispy Zucchini in the Air Fryer Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.7 from 78 reviews
  • Author: Lucy
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: 5 servings (½ cup each)
  • Category: Side Dish
  • Method: Air Frying
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

This Crispy Zucchini recipe delivers perfectly golden, crunchy zucchini slices made effortlessly in the air fryer. Coated with a flavorful blend of panko breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, and Italian seasonings, these bites are light, tasty, and a healthier alternative to traditional fried zucchini. Perfect as a snack or side dish, they come together quickly and require minimal oil thanks to the air frying technique.

Ingredients

Units Scale

Breading Mix

  • 1 1/2 cups panko breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
  • 2 teaspoons onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon fresh cracked black pepper

Zucchini and Coating

  • 2 medium-sized zucchini (each weighing about 7 ounces)
  • 1 large egg
  • 4 tablespoons half and half

Instructions

  1. Prepare the breadcrumb mixture: In a medium-sized bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, grated parmesan cheese, onion powder, Italian seasoning, kosher salt, and freshly cracked black pepper. Stir well to evenly incorporate all the seasonings. Set this bowl aside for breading.
  2. Slice the zucchini: Trim off the ends of each zucchini and discard. Using a sharp knife, slice the zucchini into ⅛-inch thick rounds. If you prefer thicker slices, keep in mind that cooking time will need to be increased accordingly to ensure crispiness.
  3. Make the egg wash: In a small bowl, whisk together the large egg and 4 tablespoons of half and half until fully blended. This mixture helps the breadcrumb coating to adhere to the zucchini slices.
  4. Bread the zucchini: Dip each zucchini slice first into the egg wash, coating both sides thoroughly, then immediately dip into the breadcrumb mixture to cover completely. Lay the breaded slices neatly on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Repeat this process until all slices are breaded.
  5. Prepare the air fryer: Remove the air fryer basket and spray it lightly with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F for about 3 minutes to ensure even cooking.
  6. Cook the zucchini: Arrange the breaded zucchini slices in a single layer inside the preheated air fryer basket. Spray the top of the slices generously with non-stick spray to help achieve a crispy texture. Cook for 9 to 10 minutes, flipping or shaking the basket if necessary for even browning. For thicker slices, extend the cooking time accordingly. These zucchini slices cook best in batches to avoid overcrowding. Serve hot for maximum crunch and flavor.

Notes

  • Adjust cooking time if zucchini slices are thicker than ⅛ inch to ensure they cook through and become crispy.
  • Use fresh parmesan cheese for best flavor and optimal melting in the breadcrumb mixture.
  • Spraying both the air fryer basket and zucchini slices with non-stick spray helps achieve a golden crispy exterior without extra oil.
  • Cooking in smaller batches prevents overcrowding, which allows even air circulation and crispiness.
  • Leftovers can be reheated in the air fryer for a few minutes to regain crispiness.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: ½ cup (about 100 grams)
  • Calories: 110 kcal
  • Sugar: 2 g
  • Sodium: 320 mg
  • Fat: 5 g
  • Saturated Fat: 2 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 12 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 6 g
  • Cholesterol: 40 mg

Find it online: https://cooksbylucy.com/crispy-zucchini-in-the-air-fryer-recipe/