Air-Fryer Zucchini: How Long To Achieve Perfection?

Air fryer zucchini is a quick, easy, and healthy side dish or snack. It's a great way to use up extra zucchini and can be made in about 10 minutes. The zucchini comes out nicely browned without being too mushy, and it only takes around 8 minutes to cook. You can also experiment with different seasonings and herbs to find your favorite flavor combinations.

How to cook zucchini in an air fryer

Ingredients

• 2-4 medium-sized zucchini
• 1-2 tablespoons of olive oil or avocado oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Parmesan cheese (optional)
• Breadcrumbs (optional)
• Garlic powder (optional)
• Other seasonings of your choice (optional)

Method

• Wash and dry the zucchini.
• Cut off the ends of the zucchini and slice into your desired shape and thickness. For chips or fries, cut the zucchini lengthwise into quarters, and then cut each quarter into 3/4-inch slices. For rounds, slice the zucchini into 1/4-inch thick coins.
• Place the zucchini slices into a bowl and toss with the oil, salt, pepper, and any other desired seasonings or spices. You can also add Parmesan cheese and/or breadcrumbs for extra flavour and crispness.
• Preheat your air fryer to 390-400°F.
• Place the zucchini in a single layer in the air fryer basket, making sure they are not overlapping. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook them in batches.
• Air fry the zucchini for 7-10 minutes at 390-400°F, shaking the basket occasionally. Check the zucchini halfway through the cooking time to ensure they are not overcooking.
• Once the zucchini are tender with golden brown spots, remove them from the air fryer and serve immediately.

Tips

• Zucchini has a high water content and can become mushy if overcooked, so keep an eye on them while they are cooking.
• To prevent the zucchini from sticking to the air fryer, ensure the basket is clean and coat the zucchini slices with a little oil before cooking.
• For extra crispy zucchini, cook in a single layer and give the basket a good shake or toss halfway through cooking to ensure even browning.
• If you want to add Parmesan cheese, sprinkle it directly onto the zucchini before cooking so that it sticks to the zucchini and becomes crispy.

How to prevent zucchini from getting soggy

Zucchini has a tendency to get soggy when air-fried due to its high water content. However, there are several ways to prevent this from happening and ensure that your zucchini comes out crispy and delicious. Here are some tips to help you achieve the perfect air-fried zucchini:

Control the amount of oil used:

Use only enough oil to lightly coat the zucchini pieces. Excess oil can lead to sogginess.

Pre-dry the zucchini:

Before air frying, pat the zucchini dry with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture. This step is optional but can help guarantee crispiness.

Season carefully:

Go easy on the salt before cooking as too much salt can draw out moisture and make the zucchini dry and tough. You can always add more salt after cooking if needed.

Cut zucchini into the right size:

Cutting the zucchini into uniform pieces is important. For fries, cut them into thin strips to prevent them from becoming mushy. For bite-sized pieces or chips, aim for a thickness of about 3/4-inch.

Single layer in the air fryer basket:

Arrange the zucchini in a single layer in the air fryer basket to ensure even cooking and crispiness. If needed, work in batches to avoid overcrowding.

Don't overcook:

Keep a close eye on the zucchini as it cooks and follow the suggested cooking times. Zucchini cooks quickly and can go from tender to mushy in a matter of minutes.

Use cheese for crispiness:

If your recipe includes cheese, sprinkle it directly onto the zucchini before air frying. Cheese can help add a crispy texture to the zucchini.

Check for doneness:

Keep an eye on your zucchini as it gets closer to the end of the cooking time. You want to achieve golden brown zucchini that is tender but not mushy.

Avoid freezing:

While you can freeze cooked zucchini, it tends to become soggy once thawed. If you must freeze it, let the zucchini cool to room temperature, then freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to an airtight container.

By following these tips, you can enjoy delicious, crispy air-fried zucchini without the sogginess!

How to store and reheat air-fried zucchini

Storing Air-Fried Zucchini

To store air-fried zucchini, place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should last for up to 3–4 days.

Reheating Air-Fried Zucchini

You can reheat air-fried zucchini in the oven at 350°F or in the air fryer. Place the zucchini on a baking sheet and rewarm for a few minutes until heated through.

You can also reheat in the microwave, but this may result in a softer texture.

Freezing Air-Fried Zucchini

While it is possible to freeze zucchini, it is not recommended as it can become soggy once thawed. If you do choose to freeze your air-fried zucchini, let it cool to room temperature, then place it on a parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze for about 2 hours. Transfer the frozen zucchini to an airtight container or freezer bag and store for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

How to choose the best zucchini at the store

When choosing zucchini at the store, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure you get the best ones for cooking. Firstly, opt for small to medium-sized zucchini, as larger ones tend to be watery and lack flavour. The ideal length varies depending on the source, with some suggesting no more than 6 inches, while others recommend a range of 12 to 15 cm.

The skin of the zucchini should be an indicator of its freshness. Look for shiny, firm skin that is free of cuts, bruises, nicks, and wrinkles. A few small scratches are normal, but avoid those with soft or wet spots, as these are signs of rot. Colour is also important; zucchini can be green, yellow, or white, but always choose ones with vibrant, rich, and even colour.

Another crucial factor is the stem. Select zucchini that still have a good portion of the stem attached, as these will last longer. The longer the stem, the better. Additionally, avoid pulpy insides and large seeds, which are more common in larger zucchini.

When it comes to touch, the zucchini should feel firm. Really fresh zucchini will have tiny hairs, so don't be alarmed by this texture. Finally, if you plan to store the zucchini for a few days before using it, avoid washing or cutting it beforehand, as moisture will cause it to spoil faster.

Seasoning and herb options for zucchini

Zucchini is a versatile vegetable that can be seasoned in many ways. Here are some seasoning and herb options to consider when preparing zucchini in an air fryer:

Salt and Pepper

A simple and classic combination of salt and pepper can enhance the flavour of zucchini without overwhelming its delicate taste. This duo provides a savoury and slightly spicy kick to the vegetable.

Olive Oil

Coating zucchini with olive oil helps to prevent sticking and promotes even browning. It also adds a subtle fruity flavour and a smooth texture to the zucchini.

Parmesan Cheese

Sprinkling Parmesan cheese on zucchini adds a scrumptious salty and nutty flavour. It creates a golden, crispy crust when cooked in the air fryer, enhancing the overall taste and texture.

Garlic

Garlic is a versatile ingredient that can be used in powder or clove form. It adds a pungent and savoury flavour to zucchini, making it more appetising.

Onion Powder

Onion powder lends a mild onion flavour to zucchini, adding depth and a subtle sweetness. It is a convenient way to incorporate onion flavour without the hassle of chopping onions.

Red Chilli Flakes

For a hint of spiciness, red chilli flakes are an excellent option. They provide a subtle heat that complements the zucchini without overwhelming its delicate flavour.

Italian Seasoning

Italian seasoning is a blend of herbs commonly used in Italian cuisine, such as basil, oregano, and thyme. It adds a savoury and slightly sweet flavour to zucchini, reminiscent of classic Italian dishes.

Nutritional Yeast

For a vegan option, nutritional yeast can be used in place of Parmesan cheese. It has a cheesy, nutty flavour that adds depth to the zucchini without the use of dairy.

Cayenne

If you prefer your food spicy, cayenne pepper is a great option to add some heat to your zucchini. It contains capsaicin, which gives it a sharp, pungent flavour.

Fresh Herbs

Fresh herbs such as dill, basil, thyme, parsley, or chives can be added to zucchini for a bright and summery flavour. They provide a more subtle taste than dried herbs and add a beautiful, vibrant touch to the dish.

When preparing zucchini in an air fryer, the options for seasoning and herbs are endless. Experimenting with different combinations of the above ingredients can lead to delicious and unique flavour profiles.

Frequently asked questions