Air-Frying Zucchini: Quick Tips And Tricks

Air fryer zucchini is a quick and easy snack or side dish that can be made in under 20 minutes. The cooking time varies based on the model of the air fryer, but it generally takes 7-10 minutes to cook zucchini in an air fryer at 400 degrees Fahrenheit. To make zucchini fries or coins, the cooking time is around 6-8 minutes. The key to crispy zucchini fries is to not overcrowd the air fryer basket and work in batches if needed.

How to cut zucchini for the air fryer

Air fryer zucchini is a quick, easy, and healthy snack or side dish. The best way to cut zucchini for the air fryer depends on the shape you want to make. You can cut them into fries, coins, or bite-sized pieces.

Zucchini Fries

To cut zucchini into fries, first, wash the zucchini and dry it with a clean kitchen or paper towel. Then, cut the zucchini in half lengthwise, and then cut each half into quarters. Finally, cut the squash down the center so that you have a long french fry shape.

Zucchini Coins

Alternatively, you can cut zucchini into round coin shapes. Cut off the two ends of the zucchini, and then slice it into 3/4-inch thick pieces.

Bite-Sized Pieces

For bite-sized pieces, trim and cut the zucchini into spears or bite-sized chunks.

Once you've cut your zucchini to the desired shape, you can season and cook it in the air fryer. Enjoy!

How to season zucchini for the air fryer

Air-fried zucchini is a tasty, healthy snack or side dish that can be prepared in less than 20 minutes. It is a versatile dish that can be served with a variety of dipping sauces, such as marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or a creamy pesto-yogurt mix. Here is a detailed, step-by-step guide on how to season zucchini for the air fryer:

Ingredients:

First, gather your ingredients. You will need zucchini, of course, as well as olive oil or cooking spray, and seasonings like garlic powder, salt, and pepper. You can also add Parmesan cheese for a crispy texture and enhanced flavour. Other optional ingredients include panko breadcrumbs, onion powder, and cayenne pepper.

Preparation:

Start by washing and drying the zucchini thoroughly. Remove the ends and cut the zucchini into the desired shape—sticks or fries are popular choices, but you can also cut them into round coins or slices. If you want to get creative, you can even make zucchini chips. For best results, cut the zucchini into uniform sizes to ensure even cooking.

Seasoning:

Place the zucchini sticks or slices into a shallow bowl. Drizzle or spray them with olive oil to ensure the seasonings stick. Sprinkle your desired seasonings over the zucchini, including garlic powder, salt, and pepper. You can also add Parmesan cheese at this stage for extra flavour and crispiness. Toss the zucchini until they are evenly coated with the oil and seasonings.

Cooking:

Preheat your air fryer to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Place the seasoned zucchini into the air fryer basket or tray in a single layer, leaving a little space between each piece to allow for even cooking. Avoid overcrowding the air fryer, as this will prevent the zucchini from crisping up.

Cook the zucchini for 7-10 minutes, depending on your desired level of doneness. Keep an eye on them towards the end of the cooking time to avoid overcooking. The zucchini should be tender and golden brown when done.

Serving:

Your air-fried zucchini is now ready to serve! You can enjoy them as is or with your favourite dipping sauce. They make a delicious and nutritious snack or side dish.

Tips:

• Before cooking, ensure you pat the zucchini dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture. This promotes better roasting and helps the seasonings adhere effectively.
• Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook the zucchini in batches.
• If you want a breaded zucchini fry, set up a dredging station with flour, beaten eggs, and a mixture of Panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, salt, garlic powder, and pepper. Coat the zucchini sticks in flour, then eggs, and finally the breadcrumb mixture before placing them in the air fryer.
• For a vegan option, swap the Parmesan cheese for nutritional yeast.
• To reheat leftovers, place them in a preheated air fryer at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for a few minutes until heated through.

Enjoy your delicious and crispy air-fried zucchini!

How long to cook zucchini in the air fryer

The length of time you cook zucchini in the air fryer depends on how you cut it and the effect you want to achieve. For example, if you want to make zucchini chips, you should slice the zucchini thinly and cook it for around 8-10 minutes at 400°F. If you want to make zucchini fries, you should cut the zucchini into sticks and cook it for 6-8 minutes at 400°F. If you want to make breaded zucchini coins, you should cut the zucchini into ⅓ inch thick round slices and cook it for 6-8 minutes at 400°F.

Zucchini Chips

To make zucchini chips, you should slice the zucchini thinly, no more than ¼ of an inch in thickness. Place the slices in a medium bowl and toss them with olive oil, salt, and pepper, or your desired seasonings. Lay the zucchini slices flat in a single layer in the air fryer basket, working in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding. Air fry at 400°F for 8-10 minutes, shaking or tossing the zucchini halfway through cooking. Add additional time as needed until the zucchini reaches your desired level of crispness or tenderness.

Zucchini Fries

To make zucchini fries, cut the zucchini in half lengthwise, then cut each half into quarters. Cut down the center of each piece so that you have a french fry shape. Place the zucchini sticks into a shallow bowl and coat them with olive oil spray. Season with garlic powder, salt, and pepper, and mix to ensure even coating. Using small tongs or a fork, place the zucchini fries in a single layer in the air fryer basket. If desired, sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the fries. Air fry at 400°F for 8-10 minutes, or until the zucchini is tender and the cheese is crispy.

Breaded Zucchini Coins

To make breaded zucchini coins, cut the zucchini into round slices about ⅓ inch thick. Set up a dredging station with flour in one bowl, beaten eggs in a second bowl, and a mixture of Panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, salt, garlic powder, and pepper in a third bowl. Working in batches, coat the zucchini coins in flour, shaking off any excess, then dip them in the eggs, and finally coat them in the Panko mixture. Place the zucchini coins in a single layer in the air fryer tray, leaving a little room between each one. Cook at 400°F for 6-8 minutes, or until browned and crispy.

General Tips

• Preheat your air fryer to 400°F for a few minutes before adding the zucchini.
• Keep the zucchini in a single layer in the air fryer basket to ensure even cooking.
• Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket, as this can lead to soggy zucchini. Work in batches if necessary.
• Toss or shake the basket halfway through cooking to ensure even browning and crispness.
• Add additional cooking time if needed to reach your desired level of doneness.

With these tips and techniques, you can enjoy perfectly cooked zucchini from your air fryer every time!

How to reheat zucchini in the air fryer

If you have leftover zucchini, you can reheat it in the air fryer to regain its crispiness. Here is a step-by-step guide:

Step 1: Prepare the Air Fryer

Firstly, preheat your air fryer to 350-400°F. This temperature will ensure that your zucchini is warmed through without burning.

Step 2: Prepare the Zucchini

Place the leftover zucchini in the air fryer basket, ensuring an even layer with no overcrowding. It is essential to give the zucchini pieces enough space to allow the hot air to circulate and re-crisp them. Depending on the quantity of zucchini and the size of your air fryer, you may need to reheat in batches.

Step 3: Reheat the Zucchini

Air fry the zucchini for 1-3 minutes at 350-400°F. Keep an eye on the zucchini to ensure it doesn't burn. You may need to adjust the time depending on the quantity and the power of your air fryer.

Tips for Reheating Zucchini:

• It is best to reheat zucchini in small batches to ensure even heating and to avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket.
• If you are reheating a large quantity of zucchini, you may need to increase the time by a minute or two.
• For extra crispiness, give the zucchini a light spray of olive oil or avocado oil before reheating.
• You can also sprinkle on some extra seasonings, such as garlic powder, salt, or Parmesan cheese, to enhance the flavour.

Storing Leftover Zucchini:

Leftover zucchini should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for 2-5 days, depending on the source.

Freezing Zucchini:

While not recommended by all sources, you can freeze zucchini if desired. Let the cooked zucchini cool to room temperature, then freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Once frozen, transfer the zucchini to an airtight container or freezer bag and store for up to 3 months.

Reheating Frozen Zucchini:

To reheat frozen zucchini, let it thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then use the air fryer to reheat as mentioned above.

Serving Suggestions:

Reheated zucchini makes a great side dish or snack. You can serve it with a dipping sauce such as marinara, ranch dressing, or a creamy pesto-yogurt mix. It also pairs well with proteins like grilled chicken, salmon, or steak.

What to serve with air fryer zucchini

Air fryer zucchini is a versatile dish that can be served as a side or snack and pairs well with various proteins, salads, and dips. Here are some ideas on what to serve with air fryer zucchini:

Proteins:

• Grilled chicken
• Air fryer salmon
• Steak
• Baked pork tenderloin
• Braised short ribs
• Chicken piccata
• Broiled salmon
• Garlic butter shrimp
• Grilled cod

Salads:

• Buddha bowl
• Chicken protein bowl
• Roasted harvest bowl
• Roasted vegetable salad

Dips:

• Marinara sauce
• Pesto
• Romesco sauce
• Ranch dressing
• Any other favourite sauce

Sandwiches:

• Grilled chicken sandwich
• Slow cooker pulled pork sandwich
• Blue cheese burger

Pasta:

• Instant Pot Spaghetti
• Pasta Primavera
• Shrimp Ravioli

Casseroles:

• Chicken and Rice Casserole
• Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole
• Spinach Artichoke Mac and Cheese

Stir Fry:

• Cauliflower Fried Rice
• General Tso Chicken
• Beef Lo Mein

Frequently asked questions