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Crispy Zucchini in the Air Fryer Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 5 from 33 reviews
  • Author: Julia
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: 5 half cup servings
  • Category: Side Dish
  • Method: Air Frying
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Enjoy crispy and flavorful zucchini slices made effortlessly in the air fryer. These golden breaded zucchini rounds are coated in a parmesan-panko mixture and seasoned to perfection, making a deliciously healthy snack or side dish.


Ingredients

Units Scale

Breading Mixture

  • 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 & Coating

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

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Breading: 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 mix all ingredients evenly and set aside.
  2. Slice the Zucchini: Trim the ends off the zucchini and discard. Slice the zucchini into ⅛-inch thick rounds. If you prefer thicker slices, note that cooking time will need adjustment accordingly.
  3. Whisk Egg Mixture: In a small bowl, whisk together the large egg and half and half until fully incorporated.
  4. Coat Zucchini: Dip each zucchini slice first into the egg mixture, then dredge it thoroughly in the breadcrumb mixture. Place the breaded slices onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Repeat until all slices are coated.
  5. Prepare Air Fryer: Remove the air fryer basket and spray it generously with non-stick cooking spray. Preheat the air fryer at 400°F for 3 minutes.
  6. Air Fry Zucchini: Arrange the breaded zucchini slices in a single layer inside the air fryer basket. Spray the tops generously with non-stick cooking spray to encourage crispiness. Cook for 9 to 10 minutes until golden and crispy. If slices are thicker, increase cooking time accordingly. Cook in batches if needed.
  7. Serve Hot: Remove the cooked zucchini from the air fryer and serve immediately while hot and crispy.

Notes

  • For extra crispiness, spray zucchini slices lightly with cooking spray before air frying.
  • If you prefer a gluten-free option, substitute panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs.
  • Adjust cooking time if zucchini slices are thicker than ⅛ inch to ensure they are cooked through.
  • Serving this dish fresh ensures maximum crispness; leftovers may lose some crunch.
  • Try serving with a dipping sauce like ranch or marinara for added flavor.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: ½ cup
  • Calories: 150 kcal
  • Sugar: 2 g
  • Sodium: 300 mg
  • Fat: 7 g
  • Saturated Fat: 2 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 18 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 6 g
  • Cholesterol: 50 mg