Air-Fryer Zucchini: Healthy, Quick, And Easy!

Air fryers are a great way to cook zucchini, and it only takes about 10 minutes. The intense heat of the air fryer mimics the deep-fried food experience in a healthier way. You can cut zucchini into slices, spears, or fries, and season them with olive oil, salt, pepper, and Parmesan cheese. The result is a crispy, tender, and flavourful zucchini that can be served as a side dish or snack.

How to prepare zucchini for the air fryer

Ingredients

You will need:

• 2-3 medium-sized zucchini
• Olive oil or cooking spray
• Salt
• Pepper
• Parmesan cheese (optional)
• Garlic powder (optional)
• Breadcrumbs (optional)

Method

First, wash your zucchini and dry it thoroughly with a clean kitchen towel or paper towel. This is an important step, as zucchini contains a lot of water, and if it's not dried properly, it may steam instead of roast in the air fryer.

Next, cut off the ends of the zucchini and slice it into your desired shape. You can cut it into fries, chips, or spears. If cutting into fries or spears, first cut the zucchini in half lengthwise, then cut each half into quarters. For chips, slice the zucchini into thin circles.

Place the zucchini into a bowl and toss with olive oil or cooking spray, and your chosen seasonings. You can also add breadcrumbs for a crispier texture. Ensure the zucchini is evenly coated.

Preheat your air fryer to around 400°F. Place the zucchini into the air fryer basket in a single layer, leaving space between each piece to allow air to circulate.

Cook for around 5 minutes initially, then check and cook for a further 2-3 minutes until the zucchini is tender with golden brown spots.

Your zucchini is now ready to serve! You can enjoy it as a side dish, toss it into a salad, or snack on it straight from the air fryer.

How long to cook zucchini in the air fryer

Yes, you can cook zucchini in an air fryer!

• Wash and dry the zucchini.
• Cut off the ends of the zucchini.
• Cut the zucchini into your desired shape. You can cut them into fries, slices, or quarters.
• Place the zucchini in a mixing bowl and toss with olive oil, avocado oil, or cooking spray.
• Add seasonings to the zucchini. You can use salt, pepper, onion powder, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, or paprika.
• Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (204.4 °C).
• Place the zucchini in the air fryer basket in a single layer. If you are cooking a large batch, you may need to cook in batches.
• Air fry the zucchini for 7 to 10 minutes at 400°F (204.4 °C). Shake the basket occasionally to ensure even cooking.
• Check the zucchini after 7 minutes to ensure it doesn't overcook. The zucchini is ready when it is golden brown and tender but not mushy.
• Serve immediately.

Note: The cooking time may vary slightly depending on your air fryer model and the size of your zucchini pieces. Always keep an eye on your zucchini while it's cooking to prevent overcooking.

Enjoy your delicious and healthy air-fried zucchini!

How to store leftover zucchini

Yes, you can cook zucchini in an air fryer. Here are some tips on how to store leftover zucchini:

• Don't wash the zucchini before storing it.
• Keep the zucchini whole and unwashed in a plastic or paper bag in the refrigerator.
• Ensure the bag has some ventilation by leaving one end open.
• Use within 3-4 days for the best quality and texture.
• If you've already cut the zucchini, seal it tightly in an airtight container or zip-top bag and store it in the crisper drawer of your refrigerator for 4-5 days.
• If you want to freeze zucchini, it's best to grate it, squeeze out the excess moisture with a cheesecloth or paper towels, and store it in freezer bags. Alternatively, cut the zucchini into slices or cubes, blanch in boiling water for 2-3 minutes, and then freeze.
• Frozen zucchini will last for up to 12 months in the freezer but will have a softer texture once thawed.
• To defrost zucchini, place the freezer bag in the refrigerator overnight, or submerge it in a bowl of warm water. You can also use the microwave, but only at half power to avoid cooking the zucchini.

Storing zucchini properly will help maintain its freshness, texture, and flavour, so you can enjoy it for longer!

How to prevent zucchini from sticking to the air fryer

Yes, you can cook zucchini in an air fryer. To prevent it from sticking, follow these steps:

First, ensure your zucchini is dry by patting it with a clean kitchen towel or paper towel to absorb excess moisture. Next, cut the zucchini into your desired shape and size. If you are making zucchini fries, cut the zucchini in half lengthwise, then cut each half into quarters. For other recipes, you may want to cut the zucchini into slices, chunks, or chips. Place the zucchini in a shallow bowl and coat it with olive oil or cooking spray. You can also add other seasonings at this point, such as garlic powder, salt, pepper, or Parmesan cheese.

Make sure your air fryer basket is clean, then place the zucchini in a single layer in the basket, leaving space between each piece to allow air to circulate. If using cheese, sprinkle it directly onto the zucchini. Air fry at around 400°F for 7-9 minutes for chips or slices, or 8-10 minutes for fries, shaking the basket occasionally. The zucchini is done when it is tender and golden brown.

How to prevent soggy zucchini

Zucchini is a versatile vegetable that can be cooked in many ways, including in an air fryer. However, due to its high water content, zucchini can sometimes turn out soggy when cooked. Here are some tips to help ensure your zucchini comes out crispy and delicious:

Choose the Right Zucchini

Selecting the right zucchini is the first step to ensuring it doesn't turn soggy when cooked. Look for firm zucchini with vibrant skin and no soft spots or blemishes. The ends should look fresh, with no signs of shriveling.

Cut Zucchini into Even Sizes

Before cooking, cut the zucchini into uniform pieces. This ensures that all the pieces cook evenly. For air fryer zucchini, cut the zucchini into long, thin strips resembling fries, or slice them into thin circles to make zucchini chips.

Pat Dry the Zucchini

Zucchini has a high water content, so it's important to remove excess moisture before cooking. After slicing the zucchini, use a paper towel to pat it dry gently. This will help the zucchini crisp up in the air fryer and prevent sogginess.

Don't Overcrowd the Air Fryer Basket

When placing the zucchini in the air fryer basket, make sure they are in a single layer with enough space between each piece. Overcrowding the basket can lead to uneven cooking and sogginess. If needed, cook the zucchini in batches to ensure proper airflow.

Lightly Coat with Oil

A light coating of oil, such as olive oil or avocado oil, will help the zucchini crisp up in the air fryer. Too much oil, however, can make it soggy, so be sure to use just enough to lightly coat the zucchini pieces.

Cook at the Right Temperature and Time

Cooking zucchini at the right temperature and for the appropriate amount of time is crucial to preventing sogginess. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F, and cook the zucchini for 7-9 minutes, shaking the basket occasionally. Check the zucchini frequently to ensure it doesn't overcook, as this can lead to sogginess.

Experiment with Seasonings

While not directly related to preventing sogginess, experimenting with different seasonings can enhance the flavor of your air fryer zucchini. Try using spices like onion powder, salt, pepper, garlic powder, or Italian seasoning. You can also add a crunchy coating by tossing the zucchini in panko breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese before air frying.

Frequently asked questions