🧄🌿 Air Fryer Zucchini with Parmesan
Crispy edges, tender centers, and loads of garlicky Parmesan flavor — this easy side is light, delicious, and done in under 15 minutes!
A healthy and flavorful veggie dish made effortlessly in the air fryer. Perfect as a snack, side, or low-carb appetizer.
📝 Ingredients (Serves 3–4)
- 3 medium zucchini (about 4 cups), cubed
- Spray olive oil (or 1–2 tsp olive oil, if preferred)
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 3 heaping tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
👩🍳 Instructions
- Preheat the Air Fryer
Set your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and let it preheat for about 2–3 minutes. - Prep the Zucchini
Wash and cube the zucchini into roughly ½-inch pieces. Pat dry with a paper towel to reduce moisture. - Season
In a large bowl, toss zucchini cubes with a light spray of olive oil (or drizzle), Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Add half of the Parmesan and toss again. - Air Fry
Add zucchini to the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for 10–12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through. For extra crispiness, add remaining Parmesan in the last 2 minutes of cooking. - Serve
Serve immediately, optionally topped with extra Parmesan or fresh herbs like parsley or basil.
📌 Notes
- Avoid overcrowding the basket — work in batches if needed.
- Grated Parmesan works best; shredded Parmesan may not adhere as well.
- For a cheesy crust: Mix 1 tablespoon breadcrumbs with the cheese for more texture.
- Optional: Add minced garlic or garlic powder for an extra garlicky kick.
💡 Tips
- Don’t skip preheating — it helps the zucchini get crisp faster.
- Pat zucchini dry after washing to prevent sogginess.
- Want it crispier? Use less oil and cut the zucchini slightly thinner.
- For spice lovers: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or smoked paprika.
🍽️ Servings
Serves: 3–4 as a side
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 10–12 minutes
Total Time: ~15 minutes
🧮 Nutritional Info (Per Serving – based on 4 servings):
- Calories: ~90 kcal
- Protein: 4g
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: ~200mg (depends on salt and cheese used)
🌱 Health Benefits
- Zucchini: Low in calories, high in water content and vitamin C; supports hydration and digestion.
- Parmesan Cheese: Adds umami and protein; calcium-rich in small amounts.
- Olive Oil: Heart-healthy fats that aid nutrient absorption.
- Italian Seasoning (herbs): Antioxidant-rich and anti-inflammatory.
❓ Q&A
Q: Can I use yellow squash instead of zucchini?
A: Absolutely! They have similar textures and cook the same way.
Q: Is this recipe keto or low-carb?
A: Yes! It’s naturally low in carbs and fits well into keto or low-carb meal plans.
Q: Can I make this in the oven instead of an air fryer?
A: Yes — bake at 425°F (220°C) on a lined baking sheet for 18–20 minutes, flipping once.
Q: How do I store and reheat leftovers?
A: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer for 2–3 minutes to restore crispiness.
Q: Can I make this dairy-free?
A: Skip the Parmesan or use a dairy-free cheese alternative. Nutritional yeast is another flavorful option.