Discover the Best Air Fryer Zucchini with Parmesan Recipe Today!

If you’re looking for a quick and easy way to enjoy zucchini, look no further than this Air Fryer Zucchini with Parmesan. This recipe transforms plain zucchini into a crispy, flavorful snack or side dish that’s sure to impress. With a crunchy Parmesan-breadcrumb coating and a hint of garlic and Italian seasoning, these zucchini rounds are simply irresistible.

Table of Contents

Introduction to Air Fryer Zucchini

Cooking zucchini in the air fryer is a game-changer. The circulating hot air creates a beautifully crispy exterior while keeping the inside tender and juicy. This method is a healthier alternative to deep-frying, as it requires minimal oil but still delivers that satisfying crunch.

Why Choose Air Fryer for Cooking Zucchini?

The air fryer is the perfect appliance for making Air Fryer Zucchini with Parmesan because it can achieve a perfectly crispy texture without the need for excessive oil or breading. The air fryer’s rapid air circulation ensures even cooking and a golden-brown finish, making it a fantastic option for health-conscious cooks.

Health Benefits of Zucchini

Zucchini is a nutrient-dense vegetable that’s low in calories and high in fiber, vitamins, and minerals. It’s an excellent source of antioxidants and has been linked to improved heart health, better digestion, and even cancer prevention. Incorporating Air Fryer Zucchini with Parmesan into your diet is a delicious way to reap the benefits of this versatile vegetable.

Ingredients for Air Fryer Zucchini with Parmesan

To make this delectable Air Fryer Zucchini with Parmesan, you’ll need just a few simple ingredients:

• 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Cooking spray

Key Ingredients Overview

The combination of Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning creates a flavor-packed coating that transforms plain zucchini into a delightful savory treat. The olive oil helps the coating adhere to the zucchini slices, while the cooking spray ensures the air fryer basket is properly prepped for easy release.

Quality Tips for Choosing Zucchini

When selecting zucchini for this recipe, look for firm, unblemished squash that are free of bruises or soft spots. Opt for medium-sized zucchinis, as they tend to have a better texture and flavor than overly large ones. Slice the zucchini into uniform 1/4-inch rounds to ensure even cooking in the air fryer.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheating the Air Fryer

Begin by preheating your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Lightly coat the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent the Air Fryer Zucchini with Parmesan from sticking.

Preparing the Coating

In a shallow bowl, combine the grated Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Mix the ingredients thoroughly to create the flavorful coating for the zucchini.

Coating the Zucchini

Toss the zucchini slices with the olive oil, ensuring they are evenly coated. Then, transfer the zucchini to the bowl with the Parmesan-breadcrumb mixture and gently toss to coat the slices on all sides.

Cooking the Zucchini

Arrange the coated zucchini slices in a single layer in the preheated air fryer basket. Cook for 8-10 minutes, flipping the slices halfway through, until they are golden brown and crispy.

Serving Suggestions

These Air Fryer Zucchini with Parmesan make a delightful snack, appetizer, or side dish. Serve them warm and enjoy the irresistible combination of crispy texture and savory flavors.

Best Pairings for Air Fryer Zucchini

The Air Fryer Zucchini with Parmesan pairs beautifully with grilled meats, roasted chicken, or fish dishes. They also make a tasty accompaniment to pasta, burgers, or as part of a Mediterranean-inspired meal.

Creative Ways to Serve

Get creative with your Air Fryer Zucchini with Parmesan by serving them on a platter with a zesty dipping sauce, such as ranch, marinara, or a garlic-herb aioli. You can also use them as a topping for salads, or incorporate them into a hearty grain bowl for a nutrient-packed lunch or dinner.

Variations of Air Fryer Zucchini

While the Parmesan cheese and breadcrumb coating in this recipe is delicious, there are plenty of ways to customize your Air Fryer Zucchini to suit your taste preferences.

Cheesy Variations with Different Cheeses

Try swapping out the Parmesan for other grated or shredded cheeses, such as cheddar, mozzarella, or Asiago, for a different flavor profile. You can also experiment with a blend of cheeses to create a more complex, melty coating.

Spicy Zucchini with Hot Seasonings

For a little kick, add a dash of cayenne pepper, chili powder, or crushed red pepper flakes to the coating mixture. This will give your Air Fryer Zucchini with Parmesan a delightful heat that pairs well with cool dipping sauces.

Storing and Reheating Tips

If you have any leftover Air Fryer Zucchini with Parmesan, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place the zucchini slices back in the air fryer and cook at 400°F (200°C) for 2-3 minutes, or until they are crispy and heated through.

How to Store Leftover Zucchini

For best results, store the cooked Air Fryer Zucchini with Parmesan in a single layer to prevent them from becoming soggy. If stacking is necessary, place a paper towel between the layers to absorb any moisture.

Best Reheating Methods

Reheating the zucchini in the air fryer is the best way to restore their crispy texture. You can also reheat them in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 5-7 minutes, flipping halfway through. Avoid using the microwave, as it can make the zucchini slices become soft and rubbery.

FAQs About Air Fryer Zucchini

Why is my air fryer zucchini soggy?

Soggy zucchini in the air fryer is usually caused by overcrowding the basket or using too much oil. Make sure to arrange the zucchini slices in a single layer with some space between them, and use just a light coating of oil to help the breadcrumb mixture adhere. Excess moisture can also lead to sogginess, so be sure to pat the zucchini dry before coating.

How long to cook zucchini in an airfryer?

For Air Fryer Zucchini with Parmesan, cook the zucchini slices for 8-10 minutes at 400°F (200°C), flipping them halfway through the cooking time. The exact timing may vary depending on the thickness of your zucchini slices and the power of your air fryer, so keep an eye on them and adjust the cooking time as needed until they reach your desired level of crispiness.

How do you air fry zucchini and parmesan balls?

To air fry zucchini and Parmesan balls, follow a similar process to the Air Fryer Zucchini with Parmesan recipe. Grate or finely chop the zucchini, then mix it with grated Parmesan, breadcrumbs, and seasonings. Form the mixture into small balls or bites, and air fry them at 400°F (200°C) for 8-10 minutes, shaking the basket or flipping the balls halfway through.

How do you air fry zucchini without breadcrumbs?

If you prefer to make Air Fryer Zucchini without breadcrumbs, you can use a Parmesan-based coating instead. Toss the zucchini slices with olive oil, then coat them in grated Parmesan, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Air fry the Parmesan-coated zucchini at 400°F (200°C) for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until crispy and golden brown.

More Related Recipes You Might Enjoy

• Baked Parmesan Zucchini
• Stir-Fry Zucchini with Mushrooms
• Tex-Mex Zucchini Bake

Conclusion

Elevating zucchini to new heights, this Air Fryer Zucchini with Parmesan recipe is a game-changer. With its crispy exterior, savory Parmesan-garlic flavor, and quick prep time, it’s a side dish or snack that’s sure to become a family favorite. Give this delicious air fryer zucchini a try and enjoy the satisfying crunch in every bite!

Looking for more visual inspiration? Follow me on Pinterest, where I share new recipes, dinner tips, and behind-the-scenes kitchen moments every week. Buon appetito!

Print