Air Fryer Zucchini

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I am always on the lookout for quick and healthy recipes, especially when I’m craving a side dish that’s both delicious and nutritious. Air fryer zucchini has quickly become one of my go-to options. The crispy texture and subtle flavor make it a great accompaniment to any meal. The best part? It’s super easy to make and doesn’t require much prep time.

The air fryer makes this zucchini dish a game-changer. It gives the zucchini a perfect crispness without needing to deep fry it. Whether you’re serving it as a snack, a side dish, or even a topping for salads and bowls, this Air Fryer Zucchini is sure to be a hit. Plus, you can adjust the seasoning to your liking, making it versatile and customizable!

Why You’ll Love This Air Fryer Zucchini

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• Quick & Easy: This recipe is perfect for busy days when you want something healthy but don’t have much time. The air fryer does most of the work, and you’ll have perfectly crispy zucchini in minutes.
• Versatile: You can enjoy this dish as a snack, side dish, or even add it to salads, tacos, or bowls for an extra burst of flavor.
• Healthy: It’s low in calories and packed with nutrients, making it a guilt-free addition to your meals. Plus, using the air fryer reduces the need for oil, making it lighter than traditional fried zucchini.

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What Kind of Zucchini Should I Use?

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When making Air Fryer Zucchini, the type of zucchini you use can really impact the texture and flavor. I recommend using medium-sized zucchini as they tend to have a nice balance of tenderness and firmness when cooked. Larger zucchinis can have a lot of seeds and a watery texture, which could make your final dish a bit soggy. On the other hand, smaller zucchinis might be more tender but could lose their shape when air-fried.

Ideally, choose zucchini that is firm to the touch with smooth, dark green skin. The fresher, the better! This will ensure you get that perfect crispy exterior and tender inside when air frying.

Options for Substitutions

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If you’re looking to mix things up or don’t have zucchini on hand, you can easily swap it out for other vegetables. Here are some great options:

• Yellow Squash: A similar texture and mild flavor, yellow squash works just as well in the air fryer. It’s a perfect alternative for a colorful twist!
• Eggplant: Eggplant can be another great substitution. Slice it into small cubes, and it will crisp up nicely with the same seasoning.
• Carrots: For a different flavor, try air frying thinly sliced carrots. They add a bit of sweetness and crunch.
• Sweet Potatoes: If you’re craving something heartier, sweet potatoes cut into small cubes also work wonderfully in the air fryer, giving a savory-sweet contrast to the zucchini.

Ingredients for Air Fryer Zucchini

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Here’s a simple list of the ingredients you’ll need to make this tasty Air Fryer Zucchini:

• Zucchini: The main ingredient. Fresh zucchini adds that perfect texture, turning crispy on the outside while staying tender inside.
• Olive Oil: A small amount of olive oil is key to getting that crispy texture without deep-frying. It also helps the seasonings stick to the zucchini.
• Garlic Powder: Adds a savory depth to the flavor, complementing the mild taste of zucchini.
• Onion Powder: Enhances the overall flavor with a slight sweetness and savory note.
• Dried Oregano: Gives the zucchini a Mediterranean twist, bringing in earthy and aromatic notes.
• Salt and Pepper: Basic seasonings to taste. Salt will help balance the flavors, while pepper gives it a little kick.
• Parmesan Cheese (optional): A sprinkle of Parmesan at the end can add an extra layer of richness and flavor.

Each of these ingredients plays a role in creating the perfect balance of flavors and textures in the final dish. You don’t need many ingredients, but they all work together to elevate the zucchini’s natural goodness.

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Step 1: Prepare the Zucchini

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Start by washing your zucchini thoroughly. Cut off both ends, then slice the zucchini into even, bite-sized cubes or rounds—whichever shape you prefer. Keep the pieces uniform to ensure even cooking. Pat the zucchini dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture, as this will help them crisp up better in the air fryer.

Step 2: Season the Zucchini

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In a large bowl, toss the zucchini with olive oil, ensuring all the pieces are coated. Add the garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Toss everything together until the zucchini is evenly seasoned. If you like a cheesy flavor, feel free to add some Parmesan cheese at this stage, too!

Step 3: Preheat the Air Fryer

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Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 3-5 minutes. Preheating ensures that the zucchini will cook evenly and become crispy as soon as they go in.

Step 4: Air Fry the Zucchini

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Arrange the seasoned zucchini in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding to allow the hot air to circulate around each piece. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to do this in batches. Air fry the zucchini for about 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking. You’ll know they’re done when they’re golden brown and crispy on the outside.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

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Once the zucchini is cooked, remove it from the air fryer and serve it hot! You can garnish with a little more Parmesan cheese or a squeeze of lemon for an extra burst of flavor. Enjoy as a snack, side dish, or as a topping for salads or bowls.

How Long to Cook the Air Fryer Zucchini

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Cooking zucchini in the air fryer usually takes between 12-15 minutes at 375°F (190°C). The exact cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of your zucchini pieces and the model of your air fryer. To get the perfect crispiness, I recommend shaking the basket halfway through to ensure that the zucchini cooks evenly on all sides. If you prefer extra crispiness, you can add a few more minutes of cooking time, just keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking.

Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Zucchini

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• Don’t Overcrowd the Basket: For the best results, make sure the zucchini pieces are in a single layer. If you overcrowd the air fryer basket, the zucchini will steam rather than crisp up. If you have a lot of zucchini, cook in batches.
• Pat the Zucchini Dry: After slicing your zucchini, be sure to pat it dry with a paper towel. This helps remove excess moisture and ensures crispiness.
• Use the Right Amount of Oil: Just a light coating of olive oil will work wonders. Too much oil can lead to soggy zucchini, while too little might make it difficult for the seasoning to stick.
• Check for Crispness: The key to air-fried zucchini is getting it crispy but not burnt. Check on your zucchini toward the end of cooking, and feel free to adjust the time to achieve your desired texture.
• Season to Taste: Feel free to experiment with other seasonings like paprika, Italian seasoning, or even a sprinkle of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

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• Overcrowding the Basket: As mentioned earlier, overcrowding is a common mistake that can prevent your zucchini from crisping up properly. Be sure to leave enough space for the hot air to circulate around each piece, ensuring even cooking.
• Not Drying the Zucchini: If you skip patting your zucchini dry after washing and slicing, the extra moisture can result in soggy, soft zucchini instead of the crisp exterior you’re aiming for.
• Using Too Much Oil: While olive oil helps with crisping, using too much can make your zucchini greasy instead of light and crunchy. A light coating is all you need to achieve the best results.
• Cooking at the Wrong Temperature: Cooking at too low a temperature will make the zucchini soft and less crispy. Too high, and it could burn before it’s fully cooked. Stick to 375°F (190°C) for a perfect balance of crispy and tender zucchini.
• Skipping the Shake: If you don’t shake the air fryer basket halfway through the cooking process, the zucchini pieces on the bottom can get soggy while the ones on top may overcook. Give the basket a good shake or toss halfway for even results.

What to Serve With Air Fryer Zucchini?

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This crispy, flavorful Air Fryer Zucchini pairs well with so many dishes! Here are some tasty suggestions:

Grilled Chicken

Perfect as a light, healthy side dish to complement grilled chicken. The flavors of the zucchini balance the savory, smoky taste of the chicken.

Salmon

Zucchini and salmon are a match made in heaven! Serve this as a side to your favorite salmon dish for a healthy, Mediterranean-inspired meal.

Quinoa Salad

Zucchini is a great addition to any grain salad. Try pairing it with quinoa, arugula, cherry tomatoes, and a light lemon vinaigrette for a fresh, nutritious meal.

Pasta

Top your pasta with crispy zucchini and a sprinkle of Parmesan for a delicious, veggie-packed dish. You can even add a drizzle of olive oil or pesto for extra flavor.

Tacos

These zucchini bites make a fantastic addition to tacos. Add them to soft or crunchy tacos with seasoned beef, chicken, or even beans for a satisfying meal.

Rice Bowls

Air-fried zucchini can be added to rice bowls with your choice of protein (like chicken, tofu, or beef), and topped with a drizzle of your favorite sauce.

Hummus and Pita

Serve your crispy zucchini alongside some hummus and warm pita bread for a healthy, Mediterranean-inspired snack or appetizer.

Burger or Sandwich

Add a few pieces of this crunchy zucchini on top of your burger or in a sandwich for extra flavor and texture. It’s a delicious way to elevate your classic favorites!

Storage Instructions

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Air Fryer Zucchini is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the fridge for 2-3 days. To keep them from getting soggy, try to store them without stacking them on top of each other. For the best texture when reheating, consider popping them back into the air fryer or oven for a few minutes to regain that crispy exterior.

If you’d like to freeze your zucchini, you can freeze them after cooking. Arrange the pieces on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze them until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They will last for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply air fry or bake from frozen for a few minutes until heated through and crispy again.

Estimated Nutrition

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The nutrition values for this Air Fryer Zucchini are an estimate based on a standard serving size. Keep in mind that values may vary depending on the specific ingredients and portion sizes. Here’s a general breakdown for one serving:

• Calories: 90-100 kcal
• Fat: 7g
• Carbohydrates: 8g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 2g
• Sodium: 200mg

This dish is low in calories and packed with fiber and antioxidants, making it a healthy, guilt-free addition to your meals. The olive oil provides healthy fats, while the zucchini is rich in vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C and potassium.

Frequently Asked Questions

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How do I get my Air Fryer Zucchini crispy?

To achieve a crispy texture, make sure to pat the zucchini dry after slicing, use a light coating of olive oil, and don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket. Shake the basket halfway through cooking for even crispiness.

Can I use frozen zucchini for this recipe?

Fresh zucchini works best for this recipe, but if you only have frozen zucchini, you can still use it. Just be aware that frozen zucchini tends to release more moisture, which may affect the texture. Be sure to thaw and drain it well before cooking.

How can I make this recipe spicier?

For a spicy kick, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper, red pepper flakes, or even chili powder to your seasoning mix. This will give the zucchini a zesty, spicy flavor without overpowering its natural taste.

Can I use a different oil instead of olive oil?

Yes! You can swap out olive oil for any high-heat oil, such as avocado oil, coconut oil, or grapeseed oil. Just be mindful of the flavor profile—some oils may add a distinct taste to your zucchini.

Can I make Air Fryer Zucchini ahead of time?

While it’s best served fresh, you can prep the zucchini and season it ahead of time. Store the cut, seasoned zucchini in the fridge for up to a day before cooking. This will save time on busy days!

Can I use different seasonings?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices such as Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, or even a little lemon zest for a fresh twist.

Can I use this recipe for zucchini fries?

Yes! You can cut the zucchini into longer, fry-like pieces instead of cubes. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time slightly since the thickness of the pieces may change how long they take to cook.

How do I reheat Air Fryer Zucchini?

To reheat, simply place the zucchini back into the air fryer or oven for a few minutes to regain its crispy texture. Avoid microwaving it, as this can make the zucchini soggy.

Conclusion

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If you’re looking for a quick, healthy, and delicious side dish, Air Fryer Zucchini is the way to go! It’s light, full of flavor, and the perfect addition to any meal. Whether you serve it with grilled meats, in salads, or simply enjoy it as a snack, it’s sure to be a hit. Don’t forget to save this recipe on Pinterest and share it with your family and friends!

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