Frying Zucchini In An Air Fryer: Time And Temp Guide

Air fryer zucchini is a quick and easy dish to make, requiring only a few simple ingredients and taking less than 20 minutes to cook. It is a versatile side dish that can be served with a variety of meals, from BBQ chicken burgers to air fryer salmon. The cooking time may vary depending on the size of the zucchini and the model of the air fryer, but typically, it takes around 7 to 10 minutes to cook at 400°F.

How to make zucchini crispy 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)
• Garlic powder (optional)
• Breadcrumbs (optional)

Method

• Wash and dry the zucchini.
• Cut off the ends of the zucchini and slice into your desired shape. For chips or fries, cut the zucchini in half lengthwise, then cut each half into quarters. For rounds, slice the zucchini into 1/4-inch thick coins.
• Place the zucchini in a medium-sized bowl and toss with the oil, salt, pepper, and any other desired seasonings or spices until evenly coated.
• If using cheese or breadcrumbs, add them now and toss again to coat.
• Preheat your air fryer to 390-400°F.
• Place the zucchini in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring they are not overlapping. You may need to cook in batches depending on the size of your air fryer.
• Air fry for 7-10 minutes at 390-400°F, shaking the basket occasionally to ensure even cooking.
• Zucchini is done when it is tender with golden brown spots. For a crispier texture, air fry for an additional 2-3 minutes.
• Serve immediately and enjoy!

Tips:

• Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket to ensure even cooking and crispiness.
• Experiment with different seasonings and spices to find your favorite flavor combinations.
• Zucchini pairs well with proteins such as grilled chicken, salmon, or steak.
• For a simple side dish, serve zucchini with a squeeze of lemon juice.
• For a complete meal, toss zucchini with marinara or alfredo sauce and add your choice of meat.

How to prevent zucchini from sticking to the air fryer

To prevent zucchini from sticking to the air fryer, toss the slices in a bit of olive oil before air frying. Make sure your air fryer basket is clean, so that nothing sticks, and you get crispy edges.

Ingredients:

• 2 small to medium zucchini
• Olive oil cooking spray
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/6 - 1/3 cup Parmesan cheese

Instructions:

• Slice zucchini into fries by cutting it in half lengthwise, then cutting each half into quarters. Cut the squash down the center so you have a french fry type shape.
• Preheat the air fryer to 400 degrees F.
• Place zucchini fries into a bowl, then coat with olive oil cooking spray. Shake on some garlic powder and salt and mix them up to make sure they are evenly seasoned. You can add a dash of pepper if you like.
• Using small tongs or a fork, place zucchini fries in a single layer in the air fryer. Then, if using cheese, sprinkle directly onto the fries.
• Air fry for 8-10 minutes or until zucchini is tender and the cheese is crispy.

How to store and reheat air-fried zucchini

Air-fried zucchini is best stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will last up to 4 days this way, although it may become a little soggy.

To reheat, preheat your air fryer or oven to 350-400°F and cook until heated through. You can also use a microwave, but this will make the zucchini softer.

Freezing is not recommended as zucchini tends to become soggy when thawed. However, if you wish to freeze your zucchini, let it cool to room temperature, then place it on a parchment-lined baking sheet and put it in the freezer for about 2 hours. After this time, transfer the zucchini to a freezer bag or container and store for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

How to prevent zucchini from getting soggy in the air fryer

Zucchini has a high water content, so it can be tricky to avoid sogginess when cooking it in an air fryer. However, there are several steps you can take to ensure your zucchini comes out crispy and tender rather than soggy and mushy.

Firstly, it is important to not overcook the zucchini. Zucchini cooks quickly and easily, so it only needs a short time in the air fryer. Depending on your air fryer model, the zucchini will likely be done in around 7 to 10 minutes. Check the zucchini often towards the end of the cooking time to ensure it doesn't get overcooked. The zucchini should be tender but still slightly firm when it is done.

Secondly, avoid using too much oil. Only use enough oil to lightly coat the zucchini pieces. Using too much oil can make the zucchini soggy.

Before cooking the zucchini, be sure to pat the zucchini dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towel to absorb excess moisture.

When cutting the zucchini, you can also try scooping out some of the seeds before cutting it into strips, especially if you are using very large zucchini. This can help reduce the amount of moisture in the zucchini and prevent sogginess.

Finally, you can try cutting the zucchini into thinner pieces. Thinner pieces will cook more quickly and evenly, reducing the risk of sogginess.

By following these tips, you can help ensure your air-fried zucchini turns out crispy and tender rather than soggy and mushy.

How to choose the best zucchini at the store

Zucchini is a versatile summer vegetable that can be cooked in a variety of ways, from baking to frying and grilling. Here are some tips to help you select the best zucchini at the store:

• Size: Look for smaller zucchini as they tend to be more flavourful. The ideal size for standard green zucchini is no larger than a regular-sized flashlight, or about 6 inches long and 1-2 inches in diameter. Avoid larger ones as they can be watery and flavourless with pulpy insides and large seeds.
• Colour: Zucchini can be green, yellow, or white. Regardless of the variety, look for a vibrant, rich colour. Avoid dull or faded zucchini.
• Skin: The skin should be shiny and firm, without any bumps or blemishes.
• Stem: Look for zucchini with a moist stem end and at least one inch of stem still attached. This indicates freshness and will also help the zucchini last longer.
• Texture: When sliced open, a good zucchini will have a tender but not mushy texture.

By following these guidelines, you'll be able to select the best zucchini at the store and enjoy this delicious and versatile vegetable in your favourite recipes.

Frequently asked questions