Zucchini is a versatile, healthy vegetable that can be transformed into a crispy, flavorful side dish using an air fryer. If you’ve been wondering how to cook zucchini in an air fryer, you’re in the right place! This method is quick, easy, and produces a tender inside with a perfectly crisp outside-without the mess of traditional frying.
Why You’ll Love Cooking Zucchini in an Air Fryer
– Fast and convenient: Ready in about 15 minutes.
– Healthy: Uses little oil, making it a low-fat alternative to deep frying.
– Delicious texture: Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside.
– Simple ingredients: Just zucchini, oil, seasoning, and optional cheese or breadcrumbs.
– Versatile: Great as a snack, side dish, or appetizer.
What You’ll Need
– Fresh zucchini (small to medium-sized works best)
– Olive oil or avocado oil
– Seasonings like garlic powder, Italian seasoning, oregano, salt, and pepper
– Optional: grated Parmesan cheese or bread crumbs for extra crispiness
Step-by-Step: How to Cook Zucchini in the Air Fryer
1. Prepare the Zucchini
Start by washing your zucchini and slicing it into uniform pieces-about 1/2 inch thick slices or sticks if you prefer zucchini fries. Uniformity ensures even cooking.
2. Season the Zucchini
Place the sliced zucchini in a large bowl. Drizzle with olive oil and toss to coat evenly. Sprinkle your chosen seasonings-garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper work beautifully. Toss again to distribute the flavors.
3. Add Cheese or Breadcrumbs (Optional)
For a cheesy, crispy coating, add grated Parmesan cheese and toss. Alternatively, coat the zucchini in seasoned bread crumbs or panko for extra crunch.
4. Preheat the Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F to 400°F (190°C to 200°C) for about 3-5 minutes. This step helps the zucchini start cooking immediately and crisp up nicely.
5. Arrange and Cook
Place the zucchini in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding to allow hot air circulation, which is key for crispiness. Cook for about 8 to 10 minutes, shaking or flipping the zucchini halfway through to ensure even cooking.
6. Check for Doneness
The zucchini should be tender inside with golden brown, crispy edges. If you want it crispier, add a minute or two to the cooking time, but watch carefully to avoid burning.
Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Zucchini
– Cut evenly: Uniform slices cook evenly and prevent some pieces from being soggy while others are overdone.
– Dry the zucchini: If your zucchini is very moist, pat it dry with paper towels before seasoning to avoid sogginess.
– Don’t overcrowd: Cook in batches if necessary to keep a single layer.
– Avoid flipping too often: Flipping once halfway is enough; too much flipping can cause coatings like Parmesan to fall off.
– Experiment with seasonings: Try paprika, harissa, or fresh herbs like basil or parsley for different flavor profiles.
– Serve with dips: Pair with sauces like spicy sriracha yogurt, honey mustard, ranch, or marinara for extra flavor.
What to Serve with Air Fryer Zucchini
Air fryer zucchini is incredibly versatile. It pairs well with:
– Grilled or roasted meats like chicken, steak, or salmon
– Vegetarian bowls or salads for a warm, crispy veggie boost
– As a healthy snack with your favorite dipping sauce
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover zucchini in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them back into the air fryer for 2-3 minutes to regain crispiness.
Cooking zucchini in the air fryer is a quick, healthy way to enjoy this summer squash with minimal effort and maximum flavor. Give it a try for your next meal!