Air Fryer Zucchini

🥒 Air Fryer Zucchini

🍽️ Description:

Air Fryer Zucchini is a quick, healthy, and crispy snack or side dish that’s packed with flavor and crunch—without the extra oil of deep-frying. Whether you serve it as a guilt-free appetizer, a crunchy side, or a tasty way to use up summer squash, this recipe is a keeper. It’s golden, lightly seasoned, and ready in under 15 minutes!

🧄 Ingredients:

• 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into ¼-inch rounds or half-moons
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (or spray oil)
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional for extra crispness)
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning or dried oregano
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• Optional: 2 tablespoons panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch
• Dipping sauce: ranch, marinara, or Greek yogurt dip (optional)

🍳 Instructions:

1. Prep the Zucchini:
   Wash and slice zucchini into evenly sized rounds or half-moons. Pat dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.
2. Season:
   In a bowl, toss zucchini with olive oil, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and Parmesan (and breadcrumbs if using) until well coated.
3. Air Fry:
   Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Spread zucchini in a single layer in the basket. Work in batches if needed.
4. Cook:
   Air fry for 8–10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until golden brown and crispy on the edges.
5. Serve:
   Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce or as a side to any main dish.

📝 Notes:

• Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket—zucchini needs space to crisp.
• Skip the cheese and breadcrumbs for a vegan or low-dairy version.
• Use a mandoline for even slicing, which helps ensure uniform cooking.

💡 Tips:

• Extra crispiness? Add panko and spray lightly with oil before air frying.
• Avoid soggy zucchini: Pat slices dry and don’t add too much oil.
• Batch cooking: Keep finished zucchini warm in a low oven (200°F) if cooking multiple rounds.

🍽️ Servings:

Serves 2–3 as a snack or side dish.

🔍 Nutritional Info (Per Serving – Approximate with Parmesan and oil):

• Calories: 120
• Protein: 4g
• Carbs: 8g
• Fat: 8g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sodium: 250mg

✅ Health Benefits:

• Zucchini: Low in calories, high in water, fiber, and vitamin C. Supports digestion and hydration.
• Garlic powder and herbs: Offer flavor without added sodium or fat.
• Air frying: Reduces oil use while keeping food crispy and satisfying.

❓ Q&A:

Q: Can I use yellow squash instead?
A: Yes! Yellow squash cooks the same way and tastes great.

Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 375°F for 3–4 minutes to restore crispiness.

Q: Can I make it gluten-free?
A: Yes—just use gluten-free breadcrumbs or omit them entirely.

Q: Can I use frozen zucchini?
A: Fresh works best. Frozen zucchini may turn out too soft due to water content.