Tiffany Haney
Air fryer zucchini is a quick, easy, and healthy dish that can be made without breading. It is a perfect side to serve with dinner and can be paired with a variety of spices and seasonings to enhance its flavour. The zucchini can be cut into bite-sized pieces, slices, or sticks, and cooked in the air fryer for a delicious and crispy texture. This recipe is a great way to get your daily dose of vegetables and can be made in less than 20 minutes.
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What You'll Learn
Cut zucchini into bite-sized pieces
To cut zucchini into bite-sized pieces, start by washing the zucchini under running water. You can cut off the ends if you like, but it is not necessary. Next, cut the zucchini into equal-sized pieces, about 3/4-inch chunks or bite-sized circles that are around 1/4-inch thick. You can then cut these circles in half again if you prefer. Alternatively, you can cut the zucchini into half-moon shapes and then halve them, or cut them into sticks or slices. You can also cut the zucchini into the shape of french fries by cutting it in half lengthwise, then cutting each half into quarters.
There is no need to peel the zucchini, but if you are using larger zucchini, you may want to cut away any seeds. It is important to cut the zucchini into even-sized pieces to ensure even cooking.
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Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder and onion powder
To make zucchini in an air fryer without breading, you'll want to start by slicing your zucchini. You can cut them into bite-sized pieces, or about 1/4-inch-thick slices, which can then be halved or quartered. You can also cut them into sticks or chips.
Once you've sliced your zucchini, sprinkle some salt over the pieces and let it sit for a few minutes. The salt will draw out some water, so you can then tap the zucchini dry with a paper towel.
Now it's time to season. For a simple seasoning blend, you can use a combination of garlic powder, onion powder, and pepper. You can mix these spices with olive oil and coat the zucchini with this mixture. Alternatively, you can place the zucchini in a Ziploc bag, add the oil and spices, and shake until the zucchini is coated.
If you want to add some cheese, you can sprinkle shredded Parmesan over the zucchini before placing it in the air fryer. Parmesan cheese pairs well with garlic and adds a nice crispy texture.
Place the zucchini in the air fryer basket in a single layer and cook at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for 7-10 minutes, or until the zucchini is tender and golden brown. You can also cook it at 390 degrees Fahrenheit for 5-6 minutes, depending on your preferred texture. If you want the cheese to be melted and toasted, add a few minutes to the cooking time.
And that's it! You now have delicious, crispy, and healthy zucchini as a side dish or snack.
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Spray or toss with olive oil
To cook zucchini in an air fryer without breading, you'll want to start by slicing your zucchini. You can cut the zucchini into bite-sized pieces or chunks, about 3/4" thick. You can also slice the zucchini into 1/4" circles and then slice those in half, or cut them into "fries". If you want to get creative, you can cut the zucchini lengthwise and then cut each half into quarters to create a french fry shape.
Once you've sliced your zucchini, you'll want to spray or toss it with olive oil. You can also use avocado oil or another neutral cooking oil. If you're looking for a low-oil option, you can simply sprinkle a few drops of water on the zucchini to help the spices adhere.
After you've added the oil, it's time to season the zucchini. You can use a simple blend of salt and pepper, or get creative with spices like garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, paprika, or cayenne. If you want to add some cheese to the mix, you can try parmesan, which will give the zucchini a nice toasted flavour. You can also add some red pepper flakes or smoked paprika for a spicy kick.
Once your zucchini is seasoned to your liking, it's ready to go into the air fryer. Set the temperature to 400 degrees Fahrenheit and cook for 7-10 minutes, or until the zucchini reaches your desired texture. For a softer texture, you may want to leave it in for a few minutes longer. Be sure to shake the basket halfway through cooking to ensure even results.
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Air fry for 7-10 minutes at 400°F
Once you've prepared your zucchini, it's time to cook it in the air fryer. Set the temperature to 400°F and air fry for 7-10 minutes. The cooking time may vary depending on the power level of your air fryer, so it's a good idea to keep an eye on your zucchini to ensure it reaches your desired level of doneness. Open the air fryer halfway through cooking, shake the basket, and continue cooking.
If you want to add cheese to your zucchini, sprinkle it on after you've cooked the zucchini for about 7 minutes. Then, cook for an additional 3-4 minutes to melt and toast the cheese.
Your zucchini is ready when it's tender and golden brown, with a semi-crunchy texture. If you prefer softer zucchini, you can leave it in the air fryer for a few minutes longer.
Air-fried zucchini is best served warm, but it can also be enjoyed cold. You can serve it as a side dish or snack, and it goes well with your favourite dipping sauce.
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Serve with parmesan cheese and a dipping sauce
To make air fryer zucchini with parmesan cheese and a dipping sauce, start by washing and drying your zucchini. You can cut the zucchini into bite-sized pieces or slices, or cut them into fries by cutting each zucchini in half lengthwise, then cutting each half into quarters.
Next, prepare a seasoning mix. You can use garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. You can also add Italian seasoning, dried rosemary, or Herbes de Provence for extra flavour. If you want to add some spice, include smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, red chilli powder, or red chilli flakes. Alternatively, you can use a simple store-bought seasoning blend.
Now, it's time to add the parmesan cheese. You can use shredded or grated parmesan, depending on your preference. Place the zucchini in a mixing bowl or a Ziploc bag, and add olive oil, avocado oil, or another neutral cooking oil. You can also use a cooking spray or oil mist to reduce the amount of oil used. Add your seasoning mix and parmesan cheese, then mix well to coat the zucchini evenly.
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for a few minutes. You can skip the preheating step if you're short on time. Place the zucchini in the air fryer basket in a single layer. If using cheese, sprinkle it over the zucchini now. Air fry for 7-10 minutes, or until the zucchini is tender and the cheese is melted and toasted. For softer zucchini, you may need to cook it a few minutes longer. Keep in mind that the cooking time may vary depending on the power level of your air fryer and the size of the zucchini pieces.
Once cooked, serve your zucchini with your favourite dipping sauce. You can try sour cream, ranch dressing, or a dip of your choice. Enjoy your crispy, cheesy zucchini as a delicious and healthy snack or side dish!
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Frequently asked questions
You will need zucchini, oil, and salt. You can also add spices and seasoning such as garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cayenne, Italian seasoning, dried rosemary, or Herb de Provence. If you want to add some cheese, parmesan is a good option.
Cut the zucchini into bite-sized pieces or fries. You can also cut them into circles or slices. Dry the zucchini with a paper towel to absorb excess moisture. If you are adding cheese, sprinkle it on top of the zucchini before placing it in the air fryer.
Preheat your air fryer to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Place the zucchini in the air fryer basket in a single layer and cook for 7-10 minutes, or until the zucchini is tender and reaches your desired texture. Check on the zucchini occasionally to ensure it doesn't overcook.
