Light, crisp, and ready in minutes, this Crispy Air Fryer Zucchini turns summer squash into a family-favorite snack or side. Seasoned simply and air-fried to golden perfection, it’s great for weeknight dinners or meal prep. If you love air-fryer crunches, try the air-fryer crispy mini blooming onions for another guilt-free treat.
Why You’ll Love This Crispy Air Fryer Zucchini
- Quick to make: ready in about 20 minutes from start to finish.
- Light and crispy with minimal oil for a healthier fry.
- Family-friendly: kids and adults love the crunch.
- Great for meal prep and easy reheating in the air fryer.
- Versatile: pairs with dips, mains, or salads.
Ingredients Needed
-
Vegetables
- 4 medium zucchinis (about 1.5 pounds), washed and sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
-
Oil & Seasoning
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
-
Optional Topping
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Wash and dry the zucchinis, then slice them into rounds about 1/4-inch thick.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- Add the zucchini slices to the bowl and toss until each piece is evenly coated with the seasoning blend.
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes.
- Place the seasoned zucchini slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket, avoiding overcrowding; cook in batches if needed.
- Air fry for 12–15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the slices are golden brown and crispy. If desired, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the zucchini during the last 2 minutes of cooking.
- Remove from the air fryer and let cool slightly before serving.
Serving Suggestions Crispy Air Fryer Zucchini
- Serve with marinara or ranch for dipping.
- Top warm zucchini with extra Parmesan and a squeeze of lemon.
- Add to sandwiches or grain bowls for crunch.
- Serve alongside roasted chicken or fish; try pairing with air-fryer crispy potatoes for a hearty plate.
- Offer as an appetizer platter with assorted dips and veggies.
Tips for Success Crispy Air Fryer Zucchini
- Don’t overcrowd the basket so air can circulate and create crispness.
- Slice uniformly to ensure even cooking; 1/4-inch works best.
- If slices are soggy, increase heat by 25°F and air-fry a few extra minutes.
- For the crispiest result, pat slices very dry before seasoning.
- For another snack idea, try the crispy air-fryer apple pie taquitos as a sweet finish.
Variations
- Spicy: add 1/4 teaspoon cayenne or a pinch of chili flakes to the seasoning.
- Dairy-free: skip the Parmesan and finish with chopped fresh herbs like parsley.
- Herby: add 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning or a tablespoon of chopped fresh basil.
- Veggie mix: include sliced yellow squash or thin eggplant rounds for variety.
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Crispy Air Fryer Zucchini
Light, crisp, and ready in minutes, this Crispy Air Fryer Zucchini turns summer squash into a family-favorite snack or side. Seasoned simply and air-fried to golden perfection.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 4 medium medium zucchinis (about 1.5 pounds), washed and sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
Oil & Seasoning
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
Optional Topping
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese Sprinkle over zucchini for added flavor.
Instructions
Preparation
- Wash and dry the zucchinis, then slice them into rounds about 1/4-inch thick.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- Add the zucchini slices to the bowl and toss until each piece is evenly coated with the seasoning blend.
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes.
Cooking
- Place the seasoned zucchini slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket, avoiding overcrowding; cook in batches if needed.
- Air fry for 12–15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the slices are golden brown and crispy.
- If desired, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the zucchini during the last 2 minutes of cooking.
- Remove from the air fryer and let cool slightly before serving.
Notes
For the crispiest result, pat slices very dry before seasoning. Slice uniformly to ensure even cooking; 1/4-inch works best. If slices are soggy, increase heat by 25°F and air-fry a few extra minutes.