Crispy Air Fryer Zucchini is a fun and tasty vegetable dish! With just a sprinkle of breadcrumbs and a dash of seasoning, these zucchinis turn golden and crunchy in no time.
It’s an easy side dish that feels fancy! I love dipping them in ranch dressing while watching my favorite show. Trust me, you won’t be able to stop at just one! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: Fresh, medium zucchinis are best for this recipe. If you can’t find them, you might use yellow squash or even eggplant for a similar texture and flavor.
Breadcrumbs: While panko is a favorite for its crispiness, regular breadcrumbs will also work. You can use gluten-free breadcrumbs if needed, or crushed nuts for a different crunch and flavor.
Parmesan Cheese: If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, nutritional yeast can give a cheesy flavor without the cheese.
Eggs: For a vegan version, try using a flax egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 3 tablespoons water) as a binder instead of eggs.
How Do You Get Zucchini Crispy in the Air Fryer?
Getting that perfect crispiness with zucchini can be a bit tricky, but here’s how to ensure they come out crunchy and delicious every time:
- Start by slicing the zucchini into thin, even rounds—about ¼ inch works great. This promotes uniform cooking.
- Don’t skip the egg wash! It helps the breadcrumb mixture stick to the zucchini and creates a nice crust.
- When breading, gently press the breadcrumb mix onto the zucchini for better adherence.
- Leave space in the air fryer for air to circulate. Overcrowding can lead to soggy zucchini.
- Always mist or spray the coated zucchini before air frying. This adds a layer of oil that helps them crisp up nicely.
- Cooking time can vary by air fryer, so keep an eye on them! Flipping them halfway ensures even browning.
How to Make Crispy Air Fryer Zucchini
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Zucchini:
- 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into thin rounds (about ¼ inch thick)
For the Coating:
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crispiness)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
For Dipping:
- 2 large eggs
- Cooking spray or olive oil spray for air frying
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes for preparation and about 10-12 minutes to air fry. In total, you’ll need around 30 minutes to get those delicious, crispy zucchini ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Air Fryer:
Start by preheating your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). This helps the zucchini cook evenly and become crispy.
2. Prepare the Coating Mixture:
In a large bowl, mix together the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika (if you’re using it), salt, and black pepper. Stir it well to combine all the flavors!
3. Beat the Eggs:
In another bowl, crack the two large eggs and beat them together with a fork until smooth. This will be your dipping mixture.
4. Bread the Zucchini Slices:
Take each zucchini slice and dip it into the beaten eggs. Let any excess egg drip off. Next, coat the slice with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to make sure the coating sticks well. Repeat this for all zucchini slices.
5. Arrange in the Air Fryer:
Place the breaded zucchini slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Be careful not to overcrowd them — if you’re making a lot, it’s better to cook them in batches.
6. Spray for Extra Crisp:
Lightly spray the coated zucchini with cooking spray or olive oil spray. This will help them get that nice crispy texture as they cook.
7. Air Fry the Zucchini:
Now it’s time to air fry! Cook the zucchini for 10-12 minutes, flipping them halfway through the cooking time. Keep an eye on them until they are golden brown and crispy.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Once done, remove the crispy zucchini from the air fryer and let them cool slightly. They make a great snack or a tasty side dish! Enjoy!
### FAQ for Crispy Air Fryer Zucchini
Can I Use Different Types of Zucchini?
Absolutely! While medium zucchinis work best for this recipe, you can use yellow squash or even mini zucchinis if you prefer. Just make sure to slice them thinly to ensure even cooking and crispiness!
What Can I Substitute for Breadcrumbs?
If you don’t have breadcrumbs on hand, you can use crushed cornflakes, crushed crackers, or even ground almonds for a gluten-free option. Just be aware that different substitutes may slightly alter the texture and flavor, but they’ll still be delicious!
How Do I Store Leftover Crispy Zucchini?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To keep them crispy when reheating, place them in the air fryer for a few minutes at 350°F (175°C) rather than microwaving them, which can make them soggy.
Can I Make These Zucchini Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the zucchini slices and breading mixture ahead of time! Bread the zucchini and store them on a baking sheet covered with plastic wrap in the fridge for up to a few hours before air frying. This way, they’ll be ready to cook when you are!
