Air Fryer Parmesan Zucchini

If you’re on the lookout for a crispy, delectable side dish that’s both healthy and satisfying, look no further! This Air Fryer Parmesan Zucchini is the perfect blend of crunchy, cheesy goodness with a hint of garlic and onion. It’s easy to whip up, taking just a few minutes, and it complements any meal beautifully. Whether you serve it alongside grilled meats, pasta, or enjoy it on its own, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Grab your air fryer, and let’s dive into this delightful dish!

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

First and foremost, the air fryer is a game-changer when it comes to achieving that perfect crispness without the mess and calories of traditional frying. The combination of seasoned Panko bread crumbs, Parmesan cheese, and a touch of seasoning creates a golden, crunchy exterior that contrasts beautifully with the tender zucchini on the inside. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet, making it not only delicious but nutritious as well. Perfect for snack time, appetizers, or a side dish, this Air Fryer Parmesan Zucchini is irresistibly tasty and easy to make!

Ingredients

• 3 medium zucchini, sliced into ½-inch rounds
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• ½ cup seasoned Panko bread crumbs
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• Fresh parsley, finely chopped, for garnish
• Honey Sriracha Sauce, for serving

How To Make Air Fryer Parmesan Zucchini

Step 1: Prepare the Zucchini

Begin by washing the zucchini thoroughly. Cut off the ends and slice them into ½-inch rounds. The uniformity in size allows them to cook evenly, so take your time to get this right!

Step 2: Toss with Olive Oil

In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced zucchini with 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Toss well to ensure each piece is coated with oil. This step is essential for getting that crispy texture when air-frying!

Step 3: Mix the Coating Ingredients

In a separate bowl, combine the seasoned Panko bread crumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, onion powder, garlic powder, and salt. Mix until everything is evenly distributed.

Step 4: Coat the Zucchini

Take each zucchini slice and dip it into the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring both sides are well-coated. Gently press the mixture onto the zucchini to help it stick. Repeat until all zucchini slices are coated.

Step 5: Preheat and Cook in the Air Fryer

Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Once preheated, arrange the coated zucchini slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to work in batches to avoid overcrowding.

Step 6: Air Fry

Air fry the zucchini for about 10-12 minutes, flipping them halfway through the cooking process. You want them golden brown and crispy! Keep an eye on them, as air fryers can vary in cooking times.

Step 7: Serve and Garnish

Once cooked, remove the zucchini from the air fryer and transfer it to a serving platter. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve with drizzle of honey Sriracha sauce for a sweet and spicy kick. Enjoy your crunch-tastic Air Fryer Parmesan Zucchini!

Expert Tips

• For an even crispier coating, you can spray the zucchini lightly with cooking spray before air frying.
• If you prefer a different cheese, consider using Asiago or Romano for a unique flavor twist.
• Feel free to add other seasonings like paprika or Italian herbs to the breadcrumb mixture for an extra flavor boost.
• Cut zucchini into different shapes such as sticks or wedges for a fun presentation!

Variations and Customizations

• Add a squeeze of lemon juice or zest to the zucchini before cooking for a hint of freshness.
• For a spicy kick, add some cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the breadcrumb mixture.
• Mix in some finely chopped fresh basil or oregano with the parsley for added flavor.
• Use gluten-free Panko bread crumbs to make this recipe gluten-free!

How to Store Leftovers

If you happen to have any leftovers (though they’re so good it’s hard to imagine!), store the zucchini in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place them back in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes until heated through. This will help retain their crispy texture. Enjoy them warm as a tasty snack or side dish!

FAQ

Can I use regular breadcrumbs instead of Panko?

Yes, you can use regular breadcrumbs, but Panko provides a lighter, crispier texture. If you have Panko on hand, it’s worth using for this recipe.

What can I serve with Air Fryer Parmesan Zucchini?

These crispy zucchini slices are excellent as a side dish with grilled chicken, steak, or fish. They’re also perfect as a snack with your favorite dipping sauces, such as honey Sriracha or marinara.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

To make a vegan version, substitute the Parmesan cheese with nutritional yeast and use a plant-based oil for coating. The texture may vary slightly but will still be delicious!

How do I know when the zucchini is done cooking?

The zucchini should be golden brown and crispy on the outside. You can also insert a fork to check if they’re tender on the inside. If they need longer, air fry them for an additional few minutes while keeping a close eye on them.

Conclusion

In just a few simple steps, you can whip up a batch of Air Fryer Parmesan Zucchini that will delight your taste buds and impress your friends and family. Whether you’re looking for a healthy side dish or a crunchy snack, this recipe is versatile and packed with flavor. With the air fryer doing the work, you can enjoy all the crunchy goodness without the guilt of deep frying. Give this recipe a try, and you’ll see why it’s bound to become a new staple in your kitchen. Happy cooking!