Fresh, golden, and ready in minutes, this simple Air Fryer Zucchini is the perfect weeknight side that feels both cozy and light. It crisps up with a garlicky Parmesan kick and needs just a few pantry spices and olive oil. If you love quick air fryer sides, try air fryer broccoli cheddar poppers for another easy option.
Why You’ll Love This Air Fryer Zucchini
- Crispy outside, tender inside with minimal oil.
- Ready in about 15 minutes—great for busy nights.
- Easy to scale for meal prep or family dinners.
- Kid-friendly and pairs with many mains.
- Reheats well for tasty leftovers.
Ingredients Needed
- Veggies
- 2 medium zucchini (approx 1 lb (500 g))
- Spices
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon black pepper powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
- Oil
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- Toppings
- 2 tablespoons grated parmesan cheese
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer to 400℉ (200℃) for 5 minutes.
- Rinse zucchini and pat them dry using a kitchen cloth. Cut the zucchini into even bite-sized (½-inch) pieces and set them aside.
- Add garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper powder, salt, red pepper flakes, parmesan cheese, and zucchini pieces to a medium mixing bowl. Toss to coat the zucchini with the spices.
- Add extra virgin olive oil to the bowl and toss well so each piece is lightly coated.
- Transfer half of the zucchini slices to the air fryer basket and spread evenly. Air fry for 6-8 minutes till it looks nicely roasted and is cooked; you can shake the basket midway through for even cooking.
- Drizzle some lemon juice on top and serve hot as a vegetable side.
- Air fry the remaining zucchini in the same way; the second batch might take a minute less to cook.
Serving Suggestions Air Fryer Zucchini
- Serve alongside grilled chicken or fish for a balanced plate.
- Toss into warm pasta with a little extra Parmesan and olive oil.
- Top with fresh herbs and a squeeze of lemon for brightness.
- Pair with spicy apps like air fryer buffalo cauliflower for a game-day spread.
- Add to grain bowls with quinoa, feta, and cherry tomatoes.
Tips for Success Air Fryer Zucchini
- Don’t overcrowd the basket; give pieces space to crisp.
- Cut zucchini evenly (½-inch) so all pieces cook in the same time.
- Shake halfway through to promote even browning.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days and reheat in the air fryer to refresh crispness.
- For a sweet finish after dinner, try air fryer apple fries as a fun dessert.
Variations
Here are a few easy ways to change it up:
- Make it dairy-free: omit Parmesan and finish with lemon zest and nutritional yeast.
- Make it spicy: increase red pepper flakes or add a splash of hot sauce after cooking.
- Add other veggies: toss in sliced bell peppers or mushrooms for a mixed roast.
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Air Fryer Zucchini
Fresh, golden, and crispy outside with a tender inside, this Air Fryer Zucchini is a quick and delightful weeknight side, enhanced with aromatic garlic and Parmesan.
Ingredients
Veggies
- 2 medium Zucchini (approx 1 lb or 500 g)
Spices
- 1 teaspoon Garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon Onion powder
- 1 teaspoon Black pepper powder
- ½ teaspoon Salt
- ½ teaspoon Red pepper flakes
Oil
- 2 tablespoons Extra virgin olive oil
Toppings
- 2 tablespoons Grated parmesan cheese
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the air fryer to 400℉ (200℃) for 5 minutes.
- Rinse zucchini and pat them dry using a kitchen cloth. Cut the zucchini into even bite-sized (½-inch) pieces and set them aside.
Mixing
- Add garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper powder, salt, red pepper flakes, parmesan cheese, and zucchini pieces to a medium mixing bowl. Toss to coat the zucchini with the spices.
- Add extra virgin olive oil to the bowl and toss well so each piece is lightly coated.
Cooking
- Transfer half of the zucchini slices to the air fryer basket and spread evenly. Air fry for 6-8 minutes till it looks nicely roasted and is cooked; you can shake the basket midway through for even cooking.
- Drizzle some lemon juice on top and serve hot as a vegetable side.
- Air fry the remaining zucchini in the same way; the second batch might take a minute less to cook.
Notes
Don't overcrowd the basket; give pieces space to crisp. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days and reheat in the air fryer to refresh crispness.