These crispy air fryer zucchini bites are a fun and tasty way to enjoy veggies! With a golden crunch and a hint of seasoning, they make a perfect snack or side dish.
Honestly, I can’t resist munching on these while I cook! They disappear so fast that I often have to make a double batch—good luck sharing! 😂
The air fryer makes them quick and easy to prepare, which is great for busy weeknights. I love dipping them in my favorite sauce for an extra kick—so yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: Fresh, firm medium zucchinis are best for this recipe. If zucchinis aren’t available, you can use yellow squash. Both have similar textures and flavors, making for a great alternative.
Breadcrumbs: I recommend panko breadcrumbs for that extra crunch. If you’re gluten-free, try crushed rice chips or gluten-free breadcrumbs instead. They give a nice crispy finish too!
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds rich flavor, but you can substitute it with Pecorino Romano if you want a saltier kick. Nutritional yeast is a great dairy-free option for a cheesy flavor.
Spices: Feel free to mix up the seasoning! Try adding Italian seasoning or red pepper flakes for a spicy twist if you like heat.
How Do I Get My Zucchini Extra Crispy in the Air Fryer?
To achieve that perfect crispy texture, the coating process is key. Make sure you adhere the breadcrumbs well. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Slice the zucchini into evenly sized 1/4-inch rounds to ensure even cooking.
- Beat the eggs until well combined. This helps the breadcrumbs stick. Don’t skip this step!
- Press the breadcrumb mix onto the zucchini slices firmly; really make that coating stick.
- Don’t overcrowd the basket; arrange the zucchini in a single layer for even crispiness.
- Lightly spray with olive oil for that golden color and crisp texture. Just a little goes a long way!
By following these tips, your zucchini will turn out perfectly crispy and delicious every time!
Crispy Air Fryer Zucchini
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Zucchini:
- 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
For the Coating:
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko for extra crispiness)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 2 large eggs
For Spraying:
- Olive oil spray
How Much Time Will You Need?
This crispy air fryer zucchini recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 10-12 minutes to cook. In less than half an hour, you’ll have a delicious and crunchy snack or side dish ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Air Fryer:
Start by preheating your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). This step is important because it helps the zucchini cook evenly and become crispy right from the start.
2. Prepare the Breadcrumb Mixture:
In a shallow bowl, mix together the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. This mixture will give your zucchini a delicious coating full of flavor!
3. Beat the Eggs:
In another bowl, crack the 2 large eggs and beat them until well combined. This will help the breadcrumbs stick to the zucchini slices.
4. Coat the Zucchini Slices:
Take each zucchini slice and dip it into the beaten eggs. Make sure to let any extra egg drip off. Then, coat the slice in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing down gently to make sure the crumbs stick well. Repeat this for all the zucchini rounds.
5. Air Fry the Zucchini:
Place the breaded zucchini rounds in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Make sure they’re not overlapping for even cooking. Lightly spray them with olive oil spray to help them get that perfect golden brown color.
6. Cooking Time:
Air fry the zucchini for 10-12 minutes, giving the basket a shake halfway through. Keep an eye on them; you want them golden brown and crispy!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Carefully remove the crispy zucchini from the air fryer and serve them immediately. They taste great on their own, or you can enjoy them with marinara or ranch dressing for dipping. Dig in and enjoy your crunchy treat!
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While Parmesan adds a great flavor, you can use other cheeses like Romano or a shredded Italian blend if you prefer. Just keep in mind that the taste and texture may differ slightly.
How Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
No problem! Simply substitute the regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs. You can also use crushed gluten-free crackers or almond flour for a different texture. Just be sure to check all other ingredients for gluten content!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover crispy zucchini in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes to crisp them back up. Avoid microwaving, as this can make them soggy!
Can I Use Frozen Zucchini Slices?
Using frozen zucchini isn’t recommended for this recipe, as they can become mushy when cooked. If you have to use frozen zucchini, make sure to thaw and drain them well, then pat them dry with a paper towel before breading and air frying.
