Air Fryer Zucchini

Name: Air Fryer Zucchini
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 small/medium zucchinis; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; Kosher salt; fresh cracked pepper; Fresh parsley for garnish

Published: June 28, 2025

by Vanessaa

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: This recipe takes just 10 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy nights.
Flavorful: The combination of olive oil, Parmesan cheese, and herbs creates a burst of flavor with every bite.
Healthy Option: Air frying reduces fat content while retaining delicious taste, making it a healthier side dish choice.
Versatile Side Dish: Serve it alongside grilled meats, pasta, or as part of a veggie platter.
Great for Leftovers: Enjoy the leftovers cold in salads or reheated for an easy snack.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools can make cooking much simpler. Here are some essentials that will help you prepare this air fryer zucchini recipe perfectly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Air fryer
Cutting board
Sharp knife
Large mixing bowl
Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

Air fryer: This tool allows you to achieve that crispy texture without deep frying.
Cutting board: A stable surface makes slicing zucchini quick and safe.
Sharp knife: Ensures clean cuts for even cooking and presentation.

Ingredients

For the Zucchini

2 small/medium zucchini
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Kosher salt
fresh cracked pepper

For Garnish

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Air Fryer Zucchini

Step 1: Preheat the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. This ensures that the zucchini cooks evenly and achieves that perfect crispiness.

Step 2: Slice the Zucchini

Take your zucchini and slice them into 1/3-inch thick rounds. Try to keep the slices uniform for consistent cooking.

Step 3: Prepare the Seasoning Mixture

In a large mixing bowl:
* Add the sliced zucchini.
* Drizzle with olive oil.
* Sprinkle on the grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, kosher salt, and fresh cracked pepper.

Step 4: Toss to Coat

Gently toss all ingredients together until the zucchini slices are well coated with olive oil and seasoning. This step is key to ensuring each piece gets plenty of flavor.

Step 5: Arrange in Air Fryer

Place the seasoned zucchini slices in a single layer across your air fryer trays. Make sure they are spaced apart slightly; if needed, cook them in batches based on your air fryer’s capacity.

Step 6: Air Fry

Air fry the zucchini for about 5-10 minutes. Check periodically until they reach your desired level of doneness—golden brown and crispy is ideal!

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Once cooked, garnish with fresh parsley and additional Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve immediately while hot for the best texture and flavor! Enjoy your delicious air fryer zucchini!

How to Serve Air Fryer Zucchini

Air fryer zucchini is a versatile side dish that pairs well with a variety of meals. Whether you’re enjoying a casual dinner or hosting a gathering, these serving suggestions will elevate your dining experience.

As a Standalone Snack

Serve warm with a light dip like ranch or tzatziki for a healthy and satisfying snack option.

With Grilled Meats

Pair air fryer zucchini with grilled chicken, steak, or fish to add a fresh, crunchy element to your plate.

In Salads

Toss air fryer zucchini slices into salads for added texture and flavor. They work especially well in Mediterranean-style salads.

As Part of a Veggie Platter

Include air fryer zucchini on a veggie platter alongside other roasted vegetables for an eye-catching and colorful presentation.

On Tacos

Add slices of air fryer zucchini to tacos for an extra layer of flavor. They complement meats like grilled shrimp or chicken nicely.

Garnished with Fresh Herbs

Top your air fryer zucchini with fresh herbs like basil or parsley for an aromatic and flavorful touch before serving.

How to Perfect Air Fryer Zucchini

Achieving perfectly cooked air fryer zucchini requires some simple techniques. Follow these tips for the best results every time you cook this delightful dish.

Choose Fresh Zucchini: Select firm zucchinis without blemishes for the best texture and taste.
Cut Evenly: Slice the zucchini into uniform pieces to ensure even cooking throughout.
Don’t Overcrowd: Arrange the zucchini in a single layer in the air fryer basket to promote even crisping.
Experiment with Seasonings: Try different herbs and spices beyond the basic recipe to customize flavors to your liking.
Adjust Cooking Time: Monitor closely as cooking times can vary based on your air fryer model and desired doneness.
Serve Immediately: For the best taste and texture, serve the zucchini right after cooking while still warm.

Best Side Dishes for Air Fryer Zucchini

When planning your meal, consider these complementary side dishes that pair beautifully with air fryer zucchini. Each brings unique flavors to create a balanced dining experience.

Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic make for a comforting side that complements the crunch of zucchini.
Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad loaded with veggies provides a refreshing contrast and adds nutritional value.
Roasted Red Peppers: Sweet, roasted red peppers enhance any plate and add vibrant color alongside air fryer zucchini.
Cauliflower Rice: This low-carb option offers a fluffy texture that pairs well with seasoned vegetables like zucchini.
Grilled Asparagus: Tender asparagus spears drizzled with olive oil provide another crunchy vegetable option that works well together.
Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and acidity, balancing out richer main dishes served alongside zucchini.
Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn complements the savory flavors of seasoned zucchini while adding variety to your meal.
Baked Sweet Potatoes: The natural sweetness of baked sweet potatoes contrasts nicely with savory air fryer zucchini slices.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making air fryer zucchini, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

Not Preheating the Air Fryer: Skipping this step can lead to uneven cooking. Always preheat your air fryer for a few minutes before adding the zucchini.
Cutting Zucchini Too Thick: If the slices are too thick, they won’t cook evenly. Aim for 1/3 thick slices for optimal results.
Overcrowding the Basket: Placing too many zucchini slices at once can prevent proper air circulation. Cook in batches if necessary to ensure even cooking.
Skipping Seasoning: Zucchini can be bland without flavor. Make sure to season generously with herbs and cheese to enhance taste.
Ignoring Cooking Time: Every air fryer is different. Keep an eye on your zucchini as it cooks and adjust timing based on your desired level of doneness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container.
Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Air Fryer Zucchini

Allow cooked zucchini to cool completely before freezing.
Place in a freezer-safe bag or container; use within 2 months for best quality.

Reheating Air Fryer Zucchini

Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F. Place zucchini on a baking sheet and heat for about 10 minutes until warmed through.
Microwave: Place zucchini on a microwave-safe plate. Heat in 30-second intervals until warm, but be careful not to overcook.
Stovetop: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add zucchini and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use different seasonings for Air Fryer Zucchini?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with various spices and herbs like paprika or chili flakes for extra flavor.

How do I tell when my Air Fryer Zucchini is done?

Zucchini should be tender and slightly golden when done. You can test by piercing with a fork.

Can I make Air Fried Breaded Zucchini?

Absolutely! Coat slices in breadcrumbs and seasonings before air frying for a crispy texture.

What are some good dipping sauces for Air Fryer Zucchini?

Try marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or garlic aioli for delicious dipping options!

Final Thoughts

This air fryer zucchini recipe is not only quick and easy but also incredibly versatile. It’s a delightful side dish that pairs well with many meals. Feel free to customize it further by adding your favorite spices or additional toppings like feta cheese or crushed red pepper flakes. Enjoy making this tasty dish!

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