If you’re looking for a snack that’s as irresistible as it is guilt-free, you’re about to fall in love with air fryer zucchini. This easy recipe transforms humble zucchini into crispy, golden bites with tender insides, making it perfect for everything from busy weeknight sides to an afternoon craving. Using just a handful of spices and a whisper of olive oil, the air fryer works magic, locking in nutrients while giving you a delicious crunch with every bite. Whether you dunk them in your favorite dip or serve them up beside a hearty meal, air fryer zucchini is your new go-to dish for flavor and fun.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple pantry staples and fresh zucchini are all you need here. Each ingredient brings something important to the table, whether it’s flavor, color, or that addictively crunchy texture that makes air fryer zucchini so special.
- Zucchinis: The fresh, tender base of the recipe—go for medium-sized ones for the ideal bite and texture.
- Olive oil: Just a drizzle helps the seasoning stick and encourages a crispy finish without deep-frying.
- Garlic powder: Adds a punch of savory flavor that pairs perfectly with zucchini’s mild sweetness.
- Onion powder: Boosts the overall flavor and brings a subtle, aromatic edge to every bite.
- Paprika: Lends gentle warmth and a beautiful golden hue—don’t skip this if you want that eye-catching color!
- Salt: Essential for balancing flavors and making the zucchini truly pop.
- Black pepper: Gives a grounding, peppery finish that rounds out the taste.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional): A classic finishing flourish that adds a salty, cheesy, golden crust—sprinkle on for an extra treat.
How to Make air fryer zucchini
Step 1: Prep the Zucchini
Wash the zucchinis thoroughly and pat them completely dry—any moisture left behind can make your chips soggy. Trim off the ends, then slice each zucchini into rounds about ¼-inch thick for the right balance between crispy edges and a tender center.
Step 2: Mix Up the Seasoning
Grab a big mixing bowl and whisk together the olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. This simple seasoning blend does all the heavy lifting—aromatic, colorful, and just spicy enough to make each zucchini slice sing.
Step 3: Toss & Coat the Zucchini
Add your sliced zucchini to the bowl and give everything a gentle but thorough toss. You want every round glistening and evenly coated so the flavor really shines through after air frying.
Step 4: Preheat the Air Fryer
Set your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and let it warm up for about five minutes. Preheating helps the air fryer zucchini cook evenly and boosts the overall crispiness—don’t skip this step!
Step 5: Cook in Batches
Arrange the zucchini slices in a single, even layer in the air fryer basket for maximum crunch. If you crowd the basket, the slices will steam rather than crisp. Work in batches if needed—good things are worth a tiny wait!
Step 6: Air Fry to Perfection
Let the air fryer zucchini cook for 12 to 15 minutes, giving the basket a good shake halfway through. You’re looking for golden edges and slightly blistered rounds. If you’re adding Parmesan, sprinkle it on during the last 2 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt and gently crisp up.
Step 7: Cool & Serve
Carefully transfer the finished zucchini to a serving plate and let them cool just enough so you can enjoy them by the handful. The aroma is out of this world, and the flavor—unbeatable. Dive in as soon as you’re able!
How to Serve air fryer zucchini
Garnishes
A quick finish of grated Parmesan, a scattering of fresh herbs like parsley or basil, or even a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can take your air fryer zucchini from tasty to truly special. Let your mood (and spice rack) guide your final flourish!
Side Dishes
These crispy zucchini rounds are the perfect pairing for anything off the grill, hearty pastas, or a colorful grain salad. Their versatility means you can serve them alongside burgers, roasted chicken, or even as a fun veggie platter at your next party.
Creative Ways to Present
Try stacking the slices on a platter with bowls of zesty marinara or tangy ranch for dipping—kids and adults both adore this! Or, layer them in a sandwich or wrap for a flavorful crunch inside lunch or dinner favorites. Even as a topping for homemade pizza, air fryer zucchini can totally steal the show.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have any air fryer zucchini left (which is a miracle in itself!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll keep for up to two days, but for maximum crisp, try to enjoy them as soon after cooking as possible.
Freezing
While air fryer zucchini is best when fresh, you can freeze leftovers in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Remember, some texture might be lost, but they’re still great for tossing into future casseroles or stir-fries.
Reheating
When you’re ready for round two, pop the zucchini back into the air fryer for a few minutes at 350°F. This restores a good amount of the original crisp, helping you avoid the dreaded microwave sogginess.
FAQs
Can I use yellow squash instead of zucchini?
Absolutely! Yellow squash has a similar texture and mild flavor, so it swaps in perfectly if you want to mix up your air fryer zucchini routine or use up what’s in your garden.
Do I have to peel the zucchini first?
No need to peel—zucchini skin is thin, packed with nutrients, and crisps up beautifully in the air fryer. Plus, it gives your dish a gorgeous pop of color.
How do I keep the slices crispy?
The key is to dry the zucchini well and avoid overcrowding your air fryer basket. A touch of oil and the right temperature also help you achieve that signature crunch.
Can I make air fryer zucchini without oil?
Yes! If you want to skip the oil, try using a light spray of cooking spray to help the seasonings stick and encourage browning. Just know they’ll be a bit less crispy.
What dips go best with air fryer zucchini?
Creamy ranch, spicy chipotle mayo, classic marinara, or even tzatziki are all fantastic options. A great dip is the perfect way to mix up your flavor experience.
Final Thoughts
I’m genuinely excited for you to try this air fryer zucchini recipe—once you do, it’s hard to stop making it! It’s the kind of snack or side that’s both quick and crowd-pleasing, so don’t be surprised when it disappears in a flash. Enjoy every crispy, flavorful bite!
Printair fryer zucchini Recipe
This Air Fryer Zucchini recipe results in deliciously crispy, tender zucchini slices that are perfect as a side dish or healthy snack. The air frying method retains the nutrients while adding a delightful crunch.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Air fry
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Zucchini Slices:
- 4 medium zucchinis, about 1.5 pounds
Seasoning Blend:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ¼ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare Zucchini: Wash, dry, and slice zucchinis into rounds.
- Create Seasoning Blend: Mix olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Coat Zucchini: Toss zucchini slices in the seasoning blend.
- Preheat Air Fryer: Set it to 400°F (200°C).
- Air Fry Zucchini: Cook seasoned zucchini slices for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway.
- Add Parmesan (Optional): Sprinkle over zucchini during last 2 mins of cooking.
- Serve: Let zucchini cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- If desired, add red pepper flakes or Italian seasoning for more flavor.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator and reheat in the air fryer for best results.
- Enjoy with a dipping sauce like marinara or ranch.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 80 kcal
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 2mg
