Air-Fryer Zucchini: A Healthy, Quick-Fix Side Dish

Air fryer zucchini is a quick, easy, and healthy side dish that can be made in under 20 minutes. The air fryer is perfect for those who want the delicious deep-fried veggie experience without the oil. Zucchini is a versatile vegetable that can be seasoned in many ways and cut into different shapes, such as fries, chips, or slices. It is also a simple dish to make, requiring only a few basic ingredients and minimal preparation time.

How to prepare zucchini for the air fryer

Preparing zucchini for the air fryer is a quick and easy process. Here are the steps you need to follow:

Step 1: Wash and Dry the Zucchini

Give the zucchini a good wash under running water to remove any dirt or residue. Then, use a clean kitchen towel or paper towel to dry it thoroughly. This step is important to remove any excess moisture, which can affect the cooking process and the final texture of the zucchini.

Step 2: Trim and Cut the Zucchini

Trim off the ends of the zucchini and cut it into your desired shape and size. You can cut it into fries, chips, or slices. If you're making chips or slices, aim for a thickness of around 1/4 inch. For fries, cut the zucchini in half lengthwise, then cut each half into quarters. You can also cut the zucchini into bite-sized pieces if you want to cook larger batches at once.

Step 3: Season the Zucchini

Place the cut zucchini in a medium-sized bowl. Drizzle with olive oil and toss to coat evenly. You can also use avocado oil or cooking spray as an alternative. Then, add your desired seasonings. You can keep it simple with just salt and pepper, or get creative with garlic powder, onion powder, Parmesan cheese, cayenne pepper, or nutritional yeast. Toss the zucchini again to ensure an even coating of seasonings.

Step 4: Preheat the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 400°F. Most recipes recommend this temperature for cooking zucchini. However, if you're making zucchini chips, a lower temperature of around 325°F may be recommended to ensure the zucchini cooks through without burning.

Step 5: Cook the Zucchini

Place the zucchini in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Make sure the pieces aren't overlapping, as this can affect even cooking. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you might need to cook the zucchini in batches. Cook for 7-10 minutes, shaking the basket occasionally, until the zucchini is tender and golden brown. For zucchini chips, you might need to cook for a few minutes longer, and remember to flip the zucchini halfway through.

And that's it! You now have delicious, crispy, and healthy zucchini prepared in your air fryer. Enjoy it as a side dish, snack, or add it to your favorite meals.

How long to cook zucchini in the air fryer

Air-fried zucchini is a tasty, healthy treat that can be prepared in under 20 minutes. The cooking time will depend on how you cut your zucchini and your air fryer model. Here is a guide to help you cook zucchini in your air fryer.

Preparation

Before cooking, wash and dry your zucchini. You can cut your zucchini into fries, slices, or chunks. For fries, cut the zucchini in half lengthwise, then cut each half into quarters. For slices, cut off the ends of the zucchini, then slice it in half lengthwise, and then cut into 3/4-inch slices. For chunks, cut the zucchini into quarters lengthwise, then cut each quarter into 3/4-inch thick half-moons.

Cooking

Once your zucchini is cut, place it in a shallow bowl and coat with olive oil or olive oil cooking spray. You can also add salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, or Italian seasoning to taste. Toss the zucchini to ensure it is evenly coated.

Preheat your air fryer to 400°F. Place the zucchini in the air fryer basket in a single layer. If your air fryer is not big enough, you may need to cook the zucchini in batches.

Cook the zucchini for 7 to 12 minutes, shaking the basket occasionally. The zucchini is done when it is tender and golden brown. Be careful not to overcook the zucchini, as it can become mushy.

Serving

Air-fried zucchini is best served fresh, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the zucchini in a preheated air fryer or oven at 350°F for a few minutes until heated through.

Enjoy your delicious and healthy air-fried zucchini!

How to store and reheat air fryer zucchini

Air fryer zucchini is best when it is freshly made, but if you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. To reheat, pop the zucchini back into the air fryer and fry at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for three to five minutes, until warmed through.

If you want to freeze your zucchini, let it cool to room temperature, then place it on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and pop it in the freezer for about two hours. After freezing, transfer the zucchini to a freezer bag or airtight container and store for up to three months. When you're ready to eat, thaw the zucchini in the refrigerator and then reheat in the air fryer.

Seasoning and herbs that go well with zucchini

Zucchini has a delicate flavour that can be enhanced by a variety of dried and fresh herbs and seasonings.

Salt and Pepper

A dash of salt and pepper is a simple way to bring out the sweetness of zucchini.

Olive Oil

Olive oil is a nutritious cooking oil that can enhance the flavours of the vegetables. It can be used as a salad dressing or to prevent the zucchini from sticking to the pan.

Garlic

Garlic is a good complement to zucchini. Fry some crushed garlic in olive oil and stir-fry cubed or sliced zucchini. You can also rub a fresh clove of garlic around the inside of a salad bowl to add flavour to a zucchini salad.

Basil

Fresh basil has a strong, aromatic flavour that enhances and balances the delicate flavours of zucchini. Use it with olive oil and tomatoes when sautéing or stewing chopped zucchini. It can also be used in a zucchini salad, drizzled with olive oil, and served as an accompaniment to grilled meat.

Oregano

Chopped oregano will bring out the distinct flavours of grilled zucchini. Brush the vegetables with olive oil and sprinkle with oregano. Freshly chopped chives, sage, and thyme can also be added before grilling.

Italian Seasoning

Italian seasoning is a blend of dried basil, marjoram, oregano, rosemary, and thyme. This mix can enhance the flavours of grilled, baked, or sautéed zucchini.

Rosemary

Rosemary will complement the sweetness of zucchini when used in stews or sauces for pasta. It will also add a distinct woodsy, sweet flavour to grilled zucchini.

Dill

Dill is another herb that goes well with zucchini, especially when grilling. Use it sparingly, as it tends to become stronger the longer it sits.

Cumin

Cumin will give zucchini plenty of flavour and fragrance.

Paprika

Paprika has a smoky, slightly spicy taste that pairs well with the delicate flavour of zucchini.

Turmeric

Turmeric has subtle, earthy, and slightly bitter flavours that resemble ginger.

Ras El Hanout

This spice blend has a great aromatic power and a slight sweetness that pairs well with zucchini.

Curry Powder

Curry powder will impart sweet and tangy flavours to zucchini.

Thyme, Oregano, Savory, Tarragon, Basil, and Marjoaram

These herbs will add fragrance and character to zucchini.

Zaatar

Zaatar is a traditional Middle Eastern blend of thyme, oregano, marjoram, cumin, and coriander. It will give zucchini a hint of acidity and a salty touch.

Mint

Mint goes well with zucchini in a raw zucchini salad.

Red Chilli Flakes

Add a hint of lingering spiciness to zucchini with red chilli flakes.

How to prevent zucchini from sticking to the air fryer

Air fryer zucchini is a quick, easy, and healthy snack or side dish. To prevent your zucchini from sticking to the air fryer, follow these simple steps:

Prepare the Air Fryer Basket

First, ensure that your air fryer basket is clean. You can also line the air fryer basket with parchment paper for extra protection against sticking.

Prepare the Zucchini

Wash your zucchini and dry it thoroughly with a clean kitchen towel or paper towel to absorb excess moisture. The drier the zucchini, the better the breading or seasoning will stick.

Oil the Zucchini

Coat your zucchini slices or fries with a light layer of olive oil or avocado oil before placing them in the air fryer. This will help to ensure that your zucchini doesn't stick to the air fryer and will also help to achieve crispy edges.

Don't Overcrowd the Air Fryer Basket

Don't crowd the air fryer basket. Cook the zucchini in batches if needed to avoid overcrowding. Each piece of zucchini should have enough space around it to allow the hot air to circulate. This will help to ensure that your zucchini gets crispy, rather than soggy.

Toss or Shake Midway Through

Don't forget to give the zucchini a good shake or toss midway through cooking. This will help them to brown evenly and ensure that every bite is deliciously crisp!

Frequently asked questions